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A review by ecamaselli
Beartown by Fredrik Backman
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I honestly don't know that I could ever write a fully comprehensive review for a book like this. This is the kind of book that leaves you thinking and feeling a thousand different things As Murphy Napier said in her review, "[Backman] will make you cry, he will change your worldview (or confirm it)."
I can, however, say a few things about this book.
1) I don't think I've ever seen such brilliant character work or descriptions in my life. Not all of the characters are likable, or even flat-out detestable. In fact, many of the characters are morally-gray.
In addition, though we follow at least 20 different perspectives throughout this book, the individuality of each character makes them easy to keep track of. Every character is unique, and true to themselves, whether their choices are morally right or not.
2) This is a very slow-moving book. Because of this, it leaves you with a lot of time to think, to grow familiar with the novel itself, and to develop any emotion or opinions that you may have regarding the events of the plot. It's brilliantly paced. I don't think it could have possibly been executed more perfectly.
3) This entire book is a perfect blend of social commentary and character study. The writing lends a deeper look into the psych of the human race, and what motivates, completes, and breaks us. I believe an in-depth essay could be written on each character, for even the minor ones, such as Robbie Holts, had drive, flaws, and distinct backstories.
CONCLUSION
Beartown by Fredrik Backman is perhaps one of the most difficult and rewarding novels I've read to date. And I'm not sure that I see a lot of potential for other books to top it in this regard. It is not an enjoyable read, by any means (though there are some hopeful moments sprinkled throughout the story), but it is incredible.
This is one of those novels that I truly believe everyone (who can handle the explored topics) should read at some point in their lifetime. I will never cease to recommend this book to those who can read these subjects.
Thank you, Backman, for confirming (and changing) my worldview.
-Elliana Maselli
Thursday, February 3, 2022
1:14 PM
I can, however, say a few things about this book.
1) I don't think I've ever seen such brilliant character work or descriptions in my life. Not all of the characters are likable, or even flat-out detestable. In fact, many of the characters are morally-gray.
In addition, though we follow at least 20 different perspectives throughout this book, the individuality of each character makes them easy to keep track of. Every character is unique, and true to themselves, whether their choices are morally right or not.
2) This is a very slow-moving book. Because of this, it leaves you with a lot of time to think, to grow familiar with the novel itself, and to develop any emotion or opinions that you may have regarding the events of the plot. It's brilliantly paced. I don't think it could have possibly been executed more perfectly.
3) This entire book is a perfect blend of social commentary and character study. The writing lends a deeper look into the psych of the human race, and what motivates, completes, and breaks us. I believe an in-depth essay could be written on each character, for even the minor ones, such as Robbie Holts, had drive, flaws, and distinct backstories.
CONCLUSION
Beartown by Fredrik Backman is perhaps one of the most difficult and rewarding novels I've read to date. And I'm not sure that I see a lot of potential for other books to top it in this regard. It is not an enjoyable read, by any means (though there are some hopeful moments sprinkled throughout the story), but it is incredible.
This is one of those novels that I truly believe everyone (who can handle the explored topics) should read at some point in their lifetime. I will never cease to recommend this book to those who can read these subjects.
Thank you, Backman, for confirming (and changing) my worldview.
-Elliana Maselli
Thursday, February 3, 2022
1:14 PM
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Cursing, Rape, Sexual violence, Sexual assault, Suicidal thoughts, Drug use, Gun violence, Homophobia, Misogyny, Violence, and Sexual harassment
Moderate: Child death, Grief, Body shaming, Pregnancy, Violence, and Alcohol
Minor: Bullying, Child abuse, Death, Eating disorder, Gun violence, Injury/Injury detail, Outing, Self harm, Sexism, Addiction, Alcoholism, Body shaming, Toxic relationship, Suicide, and Toxic friendship