Anxious People: A Novel

Kept you wondering

At first I was confused, but intrigued…then I got about 150 pages in & was reading for the plot, not just to see what happened. Once I had about another 150 pages until the end, I was hooked & it was constantly on my mind. Took so many turns that I didn’t expect, but was such an uplifting, hopeful story to read.

Quite possibly the best book I've ever read. I'm not joking. The characters, the plot, the buildup, the reveals--everything was so incredibly thought out. It culminates into one of the most spectacular and heartfelt endings ever. Period. It has stuck with me years after, and I don't think I'll ever forget it. Plus, it's hilarious. What more can you ask for?

I LOVE this author. I first read A Man Called Ove and thought I love this book. Is this just a one and done? Now I know that it is not just one book it is this author’s unique characters, stories and overall take on life. He has a strange humor and it is sooo mine. His books always surprise me and I love it! I cannot wait to keep reading every book he has written. This book’s characters are very frenetic but that is not a spoiler because it kind of says it in the title. I would definitely recommend this book to any book club and for a personal read.

Why is this the FIRST book I've read by Frederik Backman when it's around his eighth?! Friends have been slacking in their recommendations because this book was amazing! Not sure I'd categorize it as "humor" but it did have some laugh out loud moments. Two words - Rabbit Crapper. How to describe this book? Fredrik Backman tells us that it is a story about many things but mostly, idiots. He also tells us that we are all doing the best we can and one of my key takeaways was if we all took a moment to listen to each other, there would be less idiocy. This aptly titled book explores how complicated and messy life can be and that everyone is interconnected as human beings. On the surface, this story is about an Open House that is interrupted by a criminal trying to flee the scene of a botched bank robbery, but there are hidden depths to each character that are slowly revealed to the reader. Even a few twists along the way. The message of - we are all fellow travelers in this thing called everyday life - stays with you. Perfect read for the year that was 2020. This book was a very emotional and yet, quick read with some passages hitting harder than others. Certain passages were felt in your gut as you read, "...your anxieties briefly brushed against mine as the fibers of our coats touch momentarily on a crowded sidewalk somewhere. We never really know what we do to each other..." And, "It just hurts so much at times, being human. Not understanding yourself, not liking the body you're stuck in." Despite these somewhat heavy passages, the story flows and is a quick read. It has an uplifting message and will make me all the more thankful this holiday season. Best part? Backman knows how to write and his words carry an emotional punch without knocking you out. I will be reading ALL of his other books.