TBB Book Review: A Man Called Ove

From the moment I learned to read, books have been my favorite way to escape, relax, and dream.  There's nothing like the feeling of opening a new book to Chapter One, knowing that some kind of adventure awaits.  

I've belonged to several book clubs over the years, but they never seemed to stick because life always got in the way.  So when Deena suggested a virtual version on The Blended Blog, I was all in.

Last month we kicked things off with six book choices and a great big group of ladies reading and chatting.  If you'd like to get in on the fun, fill out this form and we'll send you all the deets!  The four choices for March have been announced and we'd love to have you join us. 

Today we're doing a blog hop book review, so be sure to visit everyone to find out what they thought about the February reads.  

My contribution to the first month was A Man Called Ove.

I put off reading this book even though I'd had it on my nightstand for months.  I had heard so many good things, but was worried that I'd be disappointed.

I wasn't.  

The story begins with a lonely introvert named Ove.  He's grumpy, set in his ways, has just lost his job, and is mourning the death of his wife.  All that's left for him is to end his own life and join her again. But then a charming and very annoying family moves in next door, and everything is turned upside down.

Bit by bit, through glimpses of Ove's past, we learn how he came to be such a curmudgeon. I was reminded that behind every face there is a story, if we take the time to listen.  And that one life can have such a positive impact on those around them, even if it's unintended.

Eventually Ove is dragged out of his depression by his caring cast of neighbors, and finds friendship, love, and a renewed sense of purpose.  In the end I cried happy/sad tears, as everyone in the story was transformed in some way, including Ove himself.  I was a little changed too.

A Man Called Ove is heartwarming and uplifting, witty and well written.  And bonus:  there's a cute cat.  Many, many thumbs up!

Next, head over to Alison's blog to see what she thought about The Fifth Season.  Link up a book review with us at The Blended Blog, or share on social media with #theblendedblogreads, #tbbbookclub, or #tbbvirtualbookclub.