A Man Called Ove

A Novel

By: Fredrik Backman

Narrated by: J. K. Simmons

Now a major motion picture A Man Called Otto starring Tom Hanks!

#1 New York Times bestseller—more than 3 million copies sold!

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.

Fredrik Backman’s beloved first novel about the angry old man next door is a thoughtful exploration of the profound impact one life has on countless others. “If there was an award for ‘Most Charming Book of the Year,’ this first novel by a Swedish blogger-turned-overnight-sensation would win hands down” (Booklist, starred review).

©2019 Fredrik Backman (P)2019 Simon & Schuster Audio

One of the best books I have ever read.

Bought the paperback but the text was really small. You should listen now - it's love. And life. And makes the pandemic just a little more bearable.

Great Listen!

The book and performance were awesome! The character development made me feel like I really got to know Ove and the others.

Storytelling at its finest

When a book can make you laugh out loud and cry real tears at the same time, you know it's good. When a book can do both of those things throughout multiple chapters, you know it's a great book. One of my favorite things about this one was the conclusion. So often a book is really good and the author doesn't seem to know how to end the story. This was perfect!

This has to be my favorite novel!

This novel was recommend by a friend. I was hesitant at first. I truly loved this story. I laughed, I cried and I commented out loud. Ove was stubborn, ornery and a bit OCD. But kind and caring and helpful hidden behind it all. He touched so many lives, and truly made a difference in all of them. Sort of a version of It's a Wonderful life. The narrator, J.K. Simmons was excellent.

A true representation of love

I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with this book - but the character of Ove reminds me so much of two very important men in my life and I couldn’t stop smiling while listening to this story. It felt so real and true. The story was beautiful and his progress through his grief was therapeutic. Loved this.

beautiful story, very relatable and real

JK Simmons was perfect for the narration. a beautiful, and funny story about a grumpy old man and his big heart

True Love Story

keep the tissues handy. Nice flow and character development. Has several twist and turns.

Loved this Book ❤️

This is one of my all time favorite books! Although snarky, Ove has an endearing side that captures the readers heart. I would love to have an Ove in my life!!

So Simple A Story, One Might Imagine At the Start...But

This lovely story is so deeply rich; full of love, acceptance, understanding, mishaps and humor. It’s a look into human nature from many different lenses. I hope everybody enjoys it as much as we have both reading it and listening to it; the listening is a treat! It’s worth your time.

Great insight into life!

I questioned why my friend recommended this book the first few chapters, but when it ended I thanked profusely. We all know, and may even live with, A man called Ove. JKSimmons narrative is amazing. Great read or listen!