A review by miranda_graham
Beartown by Fredrik Backman

dark sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Even though I've never been a massive sporting fan, I enjoyed hockey games because they felt fast-paced, the athletes and game play are entertaining, and I at least know how to ice skate. Having that little bit of background helped me appreciate the comradery around the town and team. When the novel gets further into the trouble that can arise when boys aren't taught consequences to their actions or how to be held accountable (or simply how to understand consent), the violence of the hockey team and town are already known to the reader and make it very clear what the outcome will be. Maya's bravery to come forward is not understated, and I think this truly demonstrates how hard it is for women and girls to acknowledge and address when they've been assaulted. One issue I had with Beartown is that Maya's almost too focused on preserving the comfort of her family and the town, and though this isn't unrealistic, it just felt slightly forced. On the whole, this was a good listen with an expressive narrator.
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