A review by spootilious
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

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

4.0

 
I finished this book hours ago and I haven’t really been sure what to say about it. 

 

I am happy to be reading a book originally written in another language again, knowing there really aren’t enough in my reading circles, or advertised, now days. I’ve missed their feel, their cadence. There is something comforting about knowing that someone’s story is being shared with you even if you couldn’t hold a conversation…. Something heartwarming about knowing that no matter the barrier we all experience things similar, especially remorse, grief, and sorrow. 

 

A started A Man Called Ove only one week after someone very dear to me and my family passed away. Someone who I could not help but make parallels to. Going into the novel, I knew nothing of what it was about, only that it came highly recommended. Looking back at it now, I can certainly understand why. 

 

I won’t lie and say that the book was as good as everyone told me it would be. The start was very sluggish, and the cadence took some getting use to. Nothing really happened throughout the book, its more of a slice of life of a man trying to find his place in life after his wife paces. 

 

It was depressing… and moving… funny… and heartbreaking. 

 

Overall, it was delightful, and I am very glad I had a chance to experience it at such a time in my (and my family’s) life to really appreciate how our very own Ove had changed our lives.  

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