Pranjal Upadhyay

“People said Ove saw the world in black and white. But she was color. All the color he had.” The story revolves around Ove, a curmudgeonly old man whose life is disrupted by the arrival of new neighbours. Despite his gruff exterior and initial attempts to isolate himself, he gradually forms a bond with the family next door. The novel beautifully explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and the impact of community. It beautifully balances humour and sadness, capturing Ove's cynical worldview and the underlying tenderness that shapes his character. Through a series of flashbacks, we learn about his past—the profound love he shared with his late wife, Sonja, and the challenges that have shaped him into the man he is. Backman’s writing is both accessible and profound, filled with memorable quotes and moments that linger with the reader long after the final page is turned. Ove's journey from wanting to end his life to finding purpose through relationships is both heart-warming and poignant. “She just smiled, said that she loved books more than anything, and started telling him excitedly what each of the ones in her lap was about. And Ove realised that he wanted to hear her talking about the things she loved for the rest of his life. Book: A Man Called Ove Author: Fredrik Backman