A review by juicextin
And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer by Fredrik Backman

challenging emotional hopeful reflective sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

A short read and a bit abstract here and there, but I did like it overall. I don’t think I felt as much as I was meant to, though probably because it wasn’t as relatable for me on the grief side at the moment (maybe eventually when I have to deal with loss in some way). 

What I Liked About It 

I enjoyed the approach it took of going back and forth between the grandpa’s interactions with his grandson and with his wife in the past (or in his mind). The memories were cute and his interactions with his grandson were very wholesome. I especially liked the moments where it showed his memories failing but his family responds in kind, with patience and understanding. Like when he mistook his grandson for his son, or didn’t recognize his son having aged. Those parts hit a little harder. 

What I Didn't Like About It 

Felt kinda short, and I think I’m not as experienced enough with abstract, almost poetic reads, to grasp the full emotion behind his memories with his wife and grandson, and the failings of him as a father towards his son. I wish those parts were expanded on more too, I think it could’ve helped make the loss feel more impactful. I think it was hard for me to create an emotional connection when I didn’t have as much background or connection to the characters overall in such a short read.