My Friends

I've loved every one of Backman's books that I've read and My Friends was no different. Jumping back and forth between present time and about 25 years prior, it's the story of a group of friends, the extreme challenges they faced in their home lives, how dedicated they were to each other... and the importance of art and those that create it.

As with all of his books, this one was hilarious at times, but also heartbreaking. It truly was an emotional roller coaster - it seemed that every time something good or funny happened, it was then tempered by yet another heartbreaking revelation. But in a good way, in that you're emotionally invested in the story and characters and truly care about them.

I have read all of Backman’s books, and this is probably my favorite. He is such a wonderful writer, his characters are so fleshed out and believable. I stayed up too late each night because I couldn’t stop reading. This is an enchanting book about childhood friendships and the healing power of art and having people that believe in you.

A long story that unfolds slowly and begs you to keep reading (which is the point I think). Keen insights into the minds of forgotten children which makes a person wonder about the author’s childhood. Full of fun anecdotes and witty observations.

Like so many of Backman’s books, this one wanders all over the place. There are jumbled timelines, contradictions, unfinished plot lines, and threads left unpulled. But there is also, for a book about grief and loss, so much joy. The writing is lyrical and the characters, every damn one of them, are just so compelling. And the art… I so, so, so wish I could experience the art. The novel is a little too long, it lags in the middle, but in the end I didn’t really mind. I will be thinking about these humans for a long time.

I have read every book Backman has ever written. I would read any scrap of trash he writes words on. Read this. Then, if you haven’t already, read every other book he’s published (starting with “A Man Called Ove” and “Beartown.” I’ve gifted Backman’s books to at least 20 different people in my life and no one has ever been disappointed. “My Friends” is another stellar work.