A Man Called Ove

Author: Fredrik Backman

Genre: Fiction

Rating: 5 out of 5

Pages: 337

Date Started: 29 March 2022

Date Finished: 3 April 2022

Fredrik Backman's "A Man Called Ove" is a heartwarming and emotionally charged tale that delves into the life of a grumpy and seemingly unpleasant old man, Ove, who finds himself thrust into unexpected situations that gradually change his perspective on life. Ove is undoubtedly a standout character, capturing the hearts of readers with his complex personality. He's gruff, principled, and fiercely honest, and his journey is one of transformation and self-discovery. As readers, we not only witness Ove's evolution but also come to understand the deeper layers of his character, revealing a man with a big heart hidden behind his rough exterior. Parvaneh, Ove's lively and determined neighbor, is another character who stands out and plays a pivotal role in the story. Her ability to see past Ove's grumpiness and recognize his true intentions brings a refreshing dynamic to the narrative. She represents the message of the book beautifully – that there is good in everyone, no matter how they may appear at first. The book's emotional depth takes readers on a roller coaster, evoking both laughter and tears. It skillfully explores themes of loneliness, connection, community, and the capacity for change. Ove's unique perspective provides valuable insights into the human condition, reminding us to look beyond the surface and find the good in people. Fredrik Backman's storytelling is exceptional, striking a balance between humor and heartache, creating a narrative that resonates deeply with readers. Ove's story is not just about one man but is a reflection of the broader human experience. The novel's engaging and humorous narrative style ensures that readers are captivated from start to finish. In summary, "A Man Called Ove" is a beautifully written and emotionally rich novel that delivers a profound message about the human capacity for change, the importance of community, and the beauty of finding good in unexpected places. Fredrik Backman's storytelling is a testament to his talent, and this book is an absolute must-read.

Favorite lines from the book:

• You miss the strangest things when you lose someone. Smiles. The way she turned in her sleep. Even repainting a room for her.

• Of all imaginable things he most misses about her, the thing he really wishes he could do again is to hold her hand in his.

• They say the brain functions quicker while it's falling.

• If cats have nine lives, this one is quite clearly working its way through at least the seventh or eighth of them.

• You only need a ray of light to chase all the shadows away.

• A time comes in every man's life when he decides what sort of man he is going to be. Whether he is the kind who lets other people tread on him, or not.

• If you can't depend on someone being on time, you shouldn't trust'em with anything important either.

• But Sonja wouldn't have been Sonja if she had let darkness win. "We can busy ourselves with living or with dying."

• Death is a strange thing. People live their whole lives as if it does not exist, and yet it's often of the great motivations for living.

• Something inside a man goes into pieces when he has to bury the only person who ever understood him. There is no time to heal that sort of wound.

• Love is a strange thing. It takes by surprise.