A Man Called Ove seems deceptively simple at the start, yet Frederik Backman packs a lifetime's worth of hilarity and heartbreak into this novel. But this character and his story do even more: A Man Called Ove makes us think about who we are and how we want to live our lives. 'There are characters who amuse us, and stories that touch us. “This charming debut novel by Backman should find a ready audience with English-language readers… hysterically funny… wry descriptions, excellent pacing… In the contest of Most Winning Combination, it would be hard to beat grumpy Ove and his hidden,generous heart.” “A funny crowd-pleaser that serves up laughs to accompany a thoughtful reflection on loss and love… The author writes with winning charm.” If there was an award for 'Most Charming Book of the Year,' this first novel by a Swedish blogger-turned-overnight-sensation would win hands down.'

'Readers seeking feel-good tales with a message will rave about the rantings of this solitary old man with a singular outlook. Backman's characters feel so authentic that readers will likely find analogues living in their own neighborhoods.' The lyrical language is the confetti thrown liberally throughout this celebration-of-life story, adding sparkle and color to an already spectacular party. You’ll also want to move to Scandinavia, where everything’s cuter.” “A charming debut…You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll feel new sympathy for the curmudgeons in your life. “If there was an award for ‘Most Charming Book of the Year,’ this first novel by a Swedish blogger-turned-overnight-sensation would win hands down” ( Booklist, starred review). All of which will change one cranky old man and a local residents’ association to their very foundations.įredrik Backman’s beloved first novel about the angry old man next door is a thoughtful exploration of the profound impact one life has on countless others. So when one November morning a chatty young couple with two chatty young daughters move in next door and accidentally flatten Ove’s mailbox, it is the lead-in to a comical and heartwarming tale of unkempt cats, unexpected friendship, and the ancient art of backing up a U-Haul. People call him “the bitter neighbor from hell.” But must Ove be bitter just because he doesn’t walk around with a smile plastered to his face all the time?īehind the cranky exterior there is a story and a sadness. He has staunch principles, strict routines, and a short fuse.

He’s a curmudgeon-the kind of man who points at people he dislikes as if they were burglars caught outside his bedroom window. #1 New York Times bestseller-more than 3 million copies sold! Now a major motion picture A Man Called Otto starring Tom Hanks!

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