A Man Called Ove: A Novel

In this New York Times bestselling “charming debut” (People)—soon to be a major motion picture starring Tom Hanks—from one of Sweden’s most successful authors, a grumpy yet loveable man finds his solitary world turned on its head when a boisterous young family moves in next door.

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368 pages

Average rating: 8.07

1,562 RATINGS

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57 REVIEWS

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Community Reviews

JShrestha
Nov 15, 2023
8/10 stars
The author definitely has a talent when it comes to character development and attachment. That's how you immediate relate and then slowly wish you were neighbours with stubborn cranky Ove, too. I enjoyed the journey of Ove and how his life after the loss of his wife continues on his terms.
Lillybean
Oct 26, 2023
10/10 stars
I watched the movie first, the book still shattered my heart
EmmBee
Oct 20, 2023
8/10 stars
This is a feel good funny novel showing that life is worth living even after experiencing unfathomable loss. Ove is an angry, rigid, and grumpy man of 50 something who's wife dies. His grief is such that he wants to die. But people and a cat get in his way and just gradually he puts off his death wish to choose to accept life over suicide. I really liked this book, its story, and its style.
twodogsandabook
Oct 17, 2023
10/10 stars
There are a few authors I can say I enjoy all their books. Fredrik Backman is one of them. His writing is beautiful and his stories moving. A Man Called Ove is about a grumpy elderly man who lived his life by strict principles and rules. After being made redundant at his workplace, he finds himself contemplating his next move in life. A stray cat, new neighbours, and old friends will interrupt his plans and will discover how valuable Ove is to them. This heart-warming story will make you laugh and cry as well. This book is going to my all-time favorite pile.
Adeluna13
Sep 10, 2023
9/10 stars
A Man Called Ove is a touching and heartwarming story that takes you on a journey with its main character, Ove. At first, Ove may come across as a grumpy and stubborn old man, but as you read, you get to know him so well that you can't help but grow fond of him. What I loved most was witnessing Ove's transformation throughout the book. It's a beautiful portrayal of how people can change and find new purpose in their lives, even when they believe their world is over. The character development in this book is exceptional. As Ove interacts with his neighbors and a quirky cast of characters, you see him evolve from a solitary and irritable individual into someone who discovers the value of human connection and the importance of having a 'found family.' It's heartening to see how these unlikely relationships form, and it reminds us that life can surprise us with unexpected friendships and love. 'A Man Called Ove' is a story that tugs at your heartstrings, making you laugh and cry in equal measure. It beautifully illustrates the power of community and the idea that, no matter how tough life may seem, there's always room for happiness and love when you open your heart to the people around you. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys books about the resilience of the human spirit and the beauty of second chances.

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