“For the greatest fear of death is always that it will pass us by. And leave us there alone.”–Frederik Backman, A Man Called Ove
Frederik Backman’s debut novel is a triumph that will make you laugh, make you cry, and reaffirm your faith in humanity. Set in Sweden, Ove is a cranky elderly man referred to as “the bitter neighbor from hell.” He is a man of routine who is routinely annoyed with everyone around him. That all begins to change the day his new neighbors arrive and accidentally smash his mailbox. This story reminds us of the power of small acts of kindness and the importance of friendship, at all stages of life. Sit back, grab a box of tissues, and enjoy the ride.
Content Advisory: Some language, death