This weekly feature is hosted by Renee (Its Book Talk). Throwback Thursday offers a way to share some of our old favorites as wellย as sharing books that we are finally getting around to reading that were published over a year ago.
About the Book
A grumpy yet loveable man finds his solitary world turned on its head when a boisterous young family moves in next door.
Meet Ove. He’s a curmudgeon, the kind of man who points at people he dislikes as if they were burglars caught outside his bedroom window. He has staunch principles, strict routines, and a short fuse. People call him the bitter neighbor from hell, but must Ove be bitter just because he doesn’t walk around with a smile plastered to his face all the time?
Behind the cranky exterior there is a story and a sadness. So when one November morning a chatty young couple with two chatty young daughters move in next door and accidentally flatten Ove’s mailbox, it is the lead-in to a comical and heartwarming tale of unkempt cats, unexpected friendship, and the ancient art of backing up a U-Haul. All of which will change one cranky old man and a local residents’ association to their very foundations.
Review
Once in a while, you read a book that brings characters into your life and makes you feel like they are real people that you actually know and not just works of fiction. This was my experience with Ove. I never knew my grandparents because they died when I was young but Ove made me miss them.
A Man Called Ove begins by introducing us to an old, grumpy man called Ove. Ove sure is mean and surly. Forgive me, but I really didnโt like Ove when I first met him. I even wondered why I was reading a book about such a mean old man. However, the author soon sneaked Ove into my heart. The more that I got to know about him, the more I warmed up to him. Reading about him, I found myself laughing, smiling and a bit teary at some point.
This is a story about Ove, a man going through a hard time that makes him seem cranky until you get to know him. I dare you to read this story and not warm up to him. Honestly, Ove is one of the most endearing characters that I have ever come across in a book. I loved reading about him and getting to know his complex, sometimes misunderstood but wonderful personality. I also enjoyed getting to know everyone who came into his life. This was such a heartwarming story that I definitely recommend to everyone.
Happy Women’s Day!
Sounds like a sweet story. It’s one I want to read. Actually I just want to try any of Backman’s books cause everyone says they’re so good.
I definitely recommend it Zezee. Its a beautiful read and I can see why Backman’s books are so hyped. It was my first book by the author though I already have Bear Town to read this month.
Oh I like it when your feelings towards a characters are completely turned around! Maybe I should give this one a go after all!
Its such a wonderful read, Inge.If you decide to read it, I hope that you will enjoy it as much as I did.
I’ve yet to read Bachman’s books.
This is my first book by the author and I loved it. I think you will enjoy his writing, Nikola. Give this one a try if you get a chance.
I will come back to read your review — I’m starting this one tonight!
I hope that you will enjoy the book as much as I did. Happy reading ๐
Thank you for visiting my blog.
You’re welcome. I appreciate it. 50% thru and loving it!
I really need to read this one! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
Happy Women’s Day!! โค
I hope that you had a great Women’s day, Deanna. This was such a fab read. Hopefully you will get a chance to read it. Thank you ๐
Such a wonderful pick! Ove is hands down one of my all time favorite characters. โค
I still remember your review, Yvo. Its one of the reasons why I was looking forward to reading this book. Ove is now on my list of favorites too ๐
Terrific choice! I loved this book ๐
Thank you, Tina. I am glad to hear that you loved it too ๐
I feel like the only person who hasn’t read this book! ๐
Its such an amazing read, Laila. Read it if you get a copy. I think you will also like it ๐
Happy Women’s Day! I’ve heard such, such great things about this book for the longest time. I’m so glad to hear this was a heartwarming read for you! โค๏ธ
Thank you, Kaila. This was such a fab read, cute, engaging story. Ove is an amazing character ๐
I watched the film so I don’t think I’m going to read the book but it was such a cute story!
I didn’t know there is a film. Thanks for mentioning that. Just checked out the trailer after reading your comment. I can’t wait to watch it ๐
Great review Diana, I took a while to get into it but enjoyed it towards the end.
Thanks Sharon. Yeah, I was also a bit ish ish at first but ended up enjoying it in the end.
Fantastic review Diana, I read this book a while ago and absolutely loved it! Ove is such an endearing character, I fell in love with him!
Thank you Beth and I can certainly see why you fell in love with Ove, I did too. He is such a wonderful character and the author did a brilliant job in portraying him ๐
Oh wow, this just sounds like such a beautiful and moving story. I’ve had this book on my TBR pile for ages so I really need to make a point to get to it soon. Wonderful review!
I hope that you will also get the chance to read it soon and hopefully, enjoy it as much as I did:-) Thank you.
A taciturn man? There is always a story there. Most times of sadness.
Another for the wishlist!
I hope that you will get the chance to read this book. Its such a wonderful read ๐
Going to source it and read it. โกโกโก
I already read this and I’m excited to read it again with my book club this month. I agree that the author does a great job bringing people to life. I feel in love with Ove too!
This was also a book club read for me and I really enjoyed discussing Ove with my book club members. Glad to hear that I am not the only one who fell in love with Ove ๐
I hope that you will enjoy your reread and your book club review.
I actually have the audiobook of Ove, and I bought the book for my daughter. She really liked it. Now itโs my turn to listen to it. Iโve heard only good things about it. Thanks for reviewing.
This book has been on my wish list for the longest time possible. I’ll definitely get it as soon as I can. Wonderful review! โบ