A few months ago, I read A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman, it was on my Fall Reading List. As I was moving through the first few chapters, I was baffled that it got such glowing reviews. I truly couldn’t understand why this was dubbed such a great story. BUT I was way too quick to judge (story of my life), and after I finished the very last sentence, I realized that this was a story that would always stick with me. And I can honestly say, that nearly six months after finishing it, it’s a story that I think about often as weeks fly by….
A MAN CALLED OVE BY FREDRIK BACKMAN
Ove is a grump. That’s probably the nicest way to describe him, other than a crusty, bitter man. Ove has zero patience, is intolerant of most people, and he’s a serial complainer. Ove says what’s on his mind (it’s usually negative) and doesn’t care who he says it to (anyone). Ove loathes rule breakers and laziness, and just wants to live in a world of order — the way he lived most of his life. Ove lives a life of solitude, and strict routine, and he’s OK with it. Until one day, an accidental run in with his new neighbors, a friendly couple with two young daughters, sparks a totally unexpected friendship.
Throughout the chapters, we learn why Ove has become the way he is. It’s a tale about hope, tragedy, and despair. The story very nicely written and truly touching. Backman did a fantastic job of weaving together the two main themes: hope and despair, all while making us laugh along the way. I couldn’t believe how heartwarming this story ended up being.
It makes you realize that everyone has a story, and sometimes, it’s not quite what you think…
PS. The book is set in Sweden, which I really enjoyed. AND, Ove is a ride-or-die Saab owner, which I really loved! My first car was a Saab. I highly recommend this for your next book club!