A Man Called Ove: A Novel

I loved this story. Reminded me of my father in-law. And J.K. Simmons was fantastic. Highly recommend.

J.K. Simmons did an incredible job reading this great book, he definitely only added to the beautiful listening experience. What a book, the depth and humor, the hilarious, spot-on descriptions of Ove's observations and emotions. This book is a gem and I might listen to it again soon.

So heartwarming. Great narrator too.

I laughed and laughed through out the book. Then then end...bittersweet. I cried like I have never cried at the end of a book. This book was my father, it was Grumpy Old Men movie in one person. It was love, heartache, sorrow, mourning and love again. I never wanted it to end. But in the end everything must end. Beautiful.

Such a great book / loved it!!!!

I think JK Simmons was an excellent choice as narrator since he always seems to play the curmudgeon. In the end, this novel reinforced the notion that one may believe their life is not worth living but, in fact, their presence on earth means more than what they believe. Think of “It’s a Wonderful Life” meets Scrooge.

Great Narrator from J.K. Simmons...nice story and well done by author and narrator

Wonderful novel and JK Simmons narration was outstanding!

The only thing I didn't like was the persistent fatphobia throughout the book and I honestly would only take off half a star for that but I can't, sadly. Other than that I just adored this story. Ove was frustrating at first and I honestly had a hard time wanting to keep going in the beginning because of his attitude and behavior but, of course, I warmed up to him as his true nature was revealed bit by bit. Ove and Sonja's love is utterly romantic and sweet. Some of my favorite chapters were of their relationship and how it was described. I love his relationship with everyone else too, but this was definitely the core of what made him him. (I also just adore his relationship with the cat.) Though this story has to come with a trigger warning for suicide themes, I can say as someone who has had those thoughts and attempts myself that they were not only done respectfully but in a way that didn't actually trigger anything negative in myself. Instead it was hope that something will stop him and then when something actually stops him, it's usually something so mundane that it makes YOU stop and think what mundanities in my life will stop me? I appreciated the introspection. Ove was a good reader stand-in for his situation and it was written very well. Overall this book was fun and heartwarming and if I hadn't been driving when I finished it I would have full-on cried at the end. Definitely a favorite read of the year so far.

Love love love! So touching.

I avoided this book for many years because the bad reviews said it was about a suicidal man who was mean to an injured cat. This sounded awful to me but my sister-in-law recommended it. I finally read it an absolutely love it! This is a deeply thoughtful and heartwarming story that was very well done by the performer. I laughed and cried, it was just beautiful!

Man, what a good book! Well written, detailed, full of heart, with a satisfying conclusion. Never been so emotionally involved in a story before. Also J.K. Simmons’s narration put it over the top—part of the reason I started the book is because I heard the sample with his narration. Definitely recommend!

I haven't been quite so moved by a book in a long time. It was funny, heart wrenching and memorable. I couldn't figure out at the beginning what redeeming qualities this man could have. It was interesting to see him evolve . I would highly recommend it!

Loved this. I usually, exclusively, listen in the car. I listened to this anytime I got a chance. Well written and thoroughly, entertaining.

Loved every second! Bravo!!

I usually like mysteries but this quirky book took me by surprise! I loved it. Great story of simple mans life.

good story, good narrator

All I can say is Wow! I haven’t enjoyed a story this much in years - it made me laugh, cry, anxious, indignant, but most of all it warmed my heart so much. Thank you Ove

Really enjoyed this story, could easily relate to the characters.

I loved this book. It’s slow paced and purposeful, just like Ove. I literally laughed out loud several times. And I caught myself wiping actual tears, too. I’m going to miss his stories now that the book has ended.

Thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish

I decided to read Ove after enjoying Anxious People and wow. Man Called Ove is one of my favorite books of all time! Bachman pulls the reader into the world he has created from the first page. His characters are so real, with the same insecurities and challenges almost all of us have had ourselves. Where I believe Bachman really shines is the natural dialogue and vivid descriptions. As others have said, one minute I was laughing and the next crying. Topping off the exceptional story and style is Simmons narration! Would love to see him in the role of Ove someday.

Amazing!!!!