A review by peachythi_books
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

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

5.0

Frederick Backman has this wonderful ability to write people as people. People are ridiculous, stupid, vindictive, cruel, and at the same time kind, wonderful, creative, and beautiful. The characters in this book have such a wide range of complexity that Backman managed to write in such compelling ways. Ove is so much more than a grumpy old man. He is deeply scarred by the life be had been put through and upholds this harsh personality as a matter of principle, but also because he sees no reason to be close to anyone anymore.

The switch between past and present gives such a wonderful insight into the character of Ove and what were originally annoying character traits became things I found wonderfully endearing. 

Almost every single character turned into someone I became extremely attached to. Especially Ove and Parvaneh. Their adorable budding friendship that turned into a found-family felt so natural and that’s what makes it so beautiful. A grumpy traumatized old man who becomes steadfast friends with a witty and bubbly young woman who sees past his rough exterior.

There are many moments where Ove displays suicidal tendencies. Which I think are written in a way that is realistic. There are no flowery prose describing his agony and no long monologues describing the depths of his turmoil. He just says, “I just want to die.” It’s powerful in its simplicity.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings