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A Man Called Ove: A Novel

Author:
Fredrik Backman
Read by:
J. K. Simmons
Read Read Own Own

Unabridged Audiobook

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Ratings
Book
402
Narrator
88
Release Date
November 26, 2019
Duration
9 hours 14 minutes
Summary
In this New York Times bestselling “charming debut” (People)—now a major motion picture starring Tom Hanks—from one of Sweden’s most successful authors, a grumpy yet loveable man finds his solitary world turned on its head when a boisterous young family moves in next door.

Meet Ove. He’s a curmudgeon—the kind of man who points at people he dislikes as if they were burglars caught outside his bedroom window. He has staunch principles, strict routines, and a short fuse. People call him “the bitter neighbor from hell.” But must Ove be bitter just because he doesn’t walk around with a smile plastered to his face all the time?

Behind the cranky exterior there is a story and a sadness. So when one November morning a chatty young couple with two chatty young daughters move in next door and accidentally flatten Ove’s mailbox, it is the lead-in to a comical and heartwarming tale of unkempt cats, unexpected friendship, and the ancient art of backing up a U-Haul. All of which will change one cranky old man and a local residents’ association to their very foundations.

A feel-good story in the spirit of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry and Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand, Fredrik Backman’s novel about the angry old man next door is a thoughtful exploration of the profound impact one life has on countless others. “If there was an award for ‘Most Charming Book of the Year,’ this first novel by a Swedish blogger-turned-overnight-sensation would win hands down” (Booklist, starred review).
Reviews
Profile Avatar Christopher S. Jun 2020

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

Profile Avatar Desiree R. Sep 2022

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.

Profile Avatar summernatandlaurenlol Aug 2020

So heartwarming. Great narrator too.

Profile Avatar Barbi N. Aug 2020

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.

Profile Avatar Anonymous Mar 2023

Such a great book / loved it!!!!

Profile Avatar Arlene F. Mar 2023

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.

Profile Avatar Carol M. Jan 2021

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.

Profile Avatar Mike B. Jul 2025

10/10 book and jk Simmons narrating?! perfection

Profile Avatar Carol C. May 2025

At first listen I wasn’t sure if I’d continue the book. However, I’ve never been so touched by a story. It brought me to tears. So bittersweet and I loved it.

Profile Avatar Michael M. Jun 2024

Ove embodies so many people I know. The book is heartwarming without sentimentality. I was reminded of Jean Shepherd's long winded radio reminisces. I saw my dad, an uncle, a neighbor, and God forbid, ME.

Profile Avatar Anonymous Apr 2024

another book by Backman that I loved!

Profile Avatar Steven K. Jul 2023

Excellent!! Saw the movie as well! Loved it!!

Profile Avatar Michael U. Feb 2023

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

Profile Avatar Jenny E. Feb 2023

Wonderful novel and JK Simmons narration was outstanding!

Profile Avatar Charessa S. Feb 2023

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.

Profile Avatar Tina M. Jan 2023

Love love love! So touching.

Profile Avatar Brian J. Dec 2022

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!

Profile Avatar Travis B. Nov 2022

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!

Profile Avatar Nancy W. Sep 2022

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!

Profile Avatar M Bernstein May 2022

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

Profile Avatar Amy F. Sep 2021

Loved every second! Bravo!!

Profile Avatar Joy M. Sep 2021

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

Profile Avatar Anonymous Aug 2021

good story, good narrator

Profile Avatar Michelle E. Aug 2021

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

Profile Avatar Alan R. Jul 2021

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

Profile Avatar Trisha H. May 2021

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.

Profile Avatar Shelley B. Mar 2021

Thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish

Profile Avatar V T. Mar 2020

Amazing!!!!

A Man Called Ove: A Novel

A Man Called Ove: A Novel

Author: Fredrik Backman
Read by: J. K. Simmons
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