A review by chaptersofchase
My Friends by Fredrik Backman

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

It's so nice to be back in the world of Backman!
Thank you, Atria Books, for the gifted copy of My Friends {partner} 
 
Genre: Fiction 
Format: 🎧📖 
Pub Date:  5.6.2025 
Pages: 448 
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆.5 

Fredrik Backman has an extraordinary gift for making his characters feel as real as those in our lives. Every time I finish one of his books, I feel like I've just spent time with people I know intimately—like family or lifelong friends. His ability to find beauty in the most ordinary moments is nothing short of magical, and it's a powerful reminder not to take a single second of life for granted. 
 
My Friends is no exception. I was completely captivated by Louise's journey—both the literal and emotional one—as she unravels the mystery behind one of her favorite artists, C.JAT. Her hopes of uncovering the truth as to the life of the artist before he created her favorite piece of art was both heartwarming and inspiring. There's something unique about how this story unfolds, especially compared to other road trip tales I've read. While many take place in the usual cars, My Friendsveers off the beaten path, with its characters traveling by car and train (but never by plane!). This gave the story a wonderfully different vibe, one I found refreshing and thought-provoking. 
 
However, what stayed with me was the breathtaking ways this book explores life itself. I was tabbing every single page with something profound that I wanted to remember for a later date. 

CW: assault, domestic violence, alcohol abuse 
 
Read if you enjoy: 
📖Character-driven stories 
🥰 Life lessons 
🫶🏼 Found family 
🎨 Art 
 
I highly recommend adding My Friends to your summer reading list! 
 
 
______ 

 
<b> 
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofchase/ 
Follow me on Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/chaptersofchase 
Follow me on StoryGraph:https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofchase/ </b>