A review by the_imbecile_admirer
The Answer is No by Fredrik Backman

funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I already love Fredrik Backman’s writing, and this year, I’m excited to read more of his works. That’s how I found The Answer Is No on Kindle Unlimited, and I finished it in one sitting. This story revolves around Lucas, a man trying to figure out how to set boundaries and navigate the challenges in his life.

One thing I truly love about Backman’s writing is the neighborhood concept. He doesn’t name the characters directly but refers to them by things like “purple dress” or “green shirt,” making the story feel more relatable and universal. Every character’s backstory, like the coma patient’s story, will definitely touch your heart. Backman has this incredible ability to make you care about the smallest details of people’s lives. The way everything comes together at the end was satisfying and heartwarming. It all started with one frying pan, and that simple beginning led to so much more.

Backman’s characterization is, as always, exceptional. Lucas is a wonderfully relatable and multi-dimensional character. He’s flawed yet kind-hearted, and you can’t help but root for him as he navigates the complexities of his life.

I really enjoyed the book and how everything turned out. And after reading it, I definitely want to eat Pad Thai noodles again—if you’ve read the book, you’ll understand why! In my mind, Ove and Lucas would be living on the same street—kind-hearted but, at times, a bit annoying to the people around them.
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