A new Fredrik Backman novel is always cause for celebration with me, as I've yet to read anything he's written that I didn't love. Happy to report that 'Anxious People' is another winner for me. What I loved about it, particularly, is it shows how Backman continues to grow as a writer. He could have been a one-trick pony with his quirky cute tales of old curmudgeons (I'm looking at you Ove and Britt-Marie), but moved into more social commentary and tougher topics for his two visits to Beartown.
'Anxious People" combines his quirkiness for characters with some tough social commentary - the poverty trap and the desperate things that some people will do to try and keep seeing their kids, as well as a recurring theme of suicide. But don't worry if you think this will be a depressing slog - as always Backman manages to delight, weaving a dark thread through a hugely enjoyable tale of an accidental hostage situation during an open house apartment viewing.
As always, Backman creates characters who initially you may love or you may hate, but by the end, I loved them all - there is redemption aplenty to be had here, with a really satisfying ending that makes you feel better about the world (and let's face it, we could all do with that right now).
Another great read from an author who never disappoints. Hugely recommended. Thank you to the publisher for the advance copy!!

I was nervous that Backman wouldn’t be able to craft a heartfelt, funny, poignant story like he’s done every other time. I mean how many times can an author strike gold? For my old pal Fredrik, it’s every damn time.

Anxious People probes the human condition in the frank, honest, beautiful way that only Backman can. I loved every page.

Wow! That was fantastic! This book is about.....being human. I have only read one other book by this author and it was Ove. I am probably the only person on this earth that didn't enjoy that book. I was like what is all the fuss about? Umm yeah ...THIS....this right here is what all the fuss is about. This author is absolutely brilliant to be able to put this story together in the manner that he did. I am going to say one thing...Kevin Bacon...Nope Kevin Bacon is not in this book, but just keep that in the back of your mind...Let me know if you get it after you read this.

Why did I love this book so much? Oh my gosh, there are sooo many reasons. It was so amazingly clever that you would be reading along thinking you knew exactly what was going on...and then I would literally stop dead in my tracks and go OMG...wow...really? Yet it all made perfect sense. It is such a well thought out progression throughout the story, that it simply amazes me that someone can dig in that deep and produce that for us. Yes, yes, I am now a fangirl, I admit.

Here's a little what to expect without spoiling anything for you, because you will never forgive me if I did! Expect a bank robber who attempts to rob a cashless bank.. Hmm okay bank robber, I had no idea that was a thing either, so I am right there with you. The "worst hostages ever." Man these hostages were entertaining. A guy wearing a rabbit costume (only the head) standing in his underwear smoking a cigarette. Yep that is an example of your hostages! SO entertaining, with a witty, snarky, dry humor...little snippets by the author- telling us not to think about cookies, aww now I want a cookie.

We really got to see what made each character in the book tick. The character development was superb! The story was so unique, that piece by piece it fell into place.It constantly kept turning out one surprise after another. Super clever. ❤️

Obviously....I loved it! Grab a copy as soon as you can, this is a must read! I can't thank Atria Books enough for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This book knocked my socks off!

t’s always such a treat to read a Fredrik Backman book.

I confess, my reading slump is the worst it’s been in many years. The current climate doesn’t do anything for my literature reading mojo, still, I pushed myself to read this.

I loved the plot and the concept of this book and how Backman brought everyone’s stories together.
Yet again, Backman’s understanding of human nature shines through. Everybody has a story, everybody hurts and most people have anxieties, ranging from daily life anxieties to the more serious kind. There’s suicide, suicide attempts, grief, trauma, loneliness, relationship breakdown, and self-loathing. All these serious aspects are well balanced out by humour, be it observational or situational. As I read on, my enjoyment and appreciation of this novel grew exponentially. I don’t know what it is about Backman’s books, they just make me soft.

It's fair to say that Backman's books are killing me softly.