My Friends: A Novel

"My Friends" is a beautifully crafted story exploring the intricate and healing power of friendships. The narrative delves into love, loyalty, regret, and redemption themes, presenting characters who feel achingly real—flawed, humorous, and deeply human. Their interactions are filled with humour, tension, and tenderness, making it impossible not to root for them as they face their challenges. Author Fredrik Backman illustrates the quiet heroism of everyday people striving to do their best, even under challenging circumstances. While the story often conveys warmth and hope, it does not shy away from complex topics, including domestic violence. These moments are addressed with empathy and depth, enhancing the overall emotional truth of the story rather than detracting from it. Backman’s prose remains poetic without becoming pretentious, and his insights into the human experience—how we hurt, heal, and forgive—are breathtaking. This book powerfully reminds us of the strength of kindness and the importance of those who support us, especially during our darkest times. "My Friends" is an unforgettable read that resonates long after the last page is turned.

A charming read that reminds us to value all those moments in life when we experience joy, no matter how small they are. It feels like an intimate story being told by an old friend about the power of love, violence, art and most of all friendship.

I almost gave up on this one. The writing style throws me off. But I did fall in love with it. The concept behind it was amazing. I loved the characters in the end.

This story was sad at times but also deeply hopeful. I loved how the teenagers formed such strong, trusting friendships, especially in contrast to the parents who often failed them. The thread of art beautifully connected many of the main characters and gave the story even more depth.

Beautiful. I love his books and this one did not disappoint. Lots of swearing, just fyi