Britt-Marie Was Here

Britt-Marie Was Here is a book of fiction. Nonetheless, it speaks to me as an example of persevering to get through life’s challenges.

Backman is a master of character development and I easily connected with the protagonist. I, like Britt Marie, have found myself outside my comfort zone, slowly moving forward to figure out how to navigate my new position in life.

For Britt Marie, it was living on her own in a new place, with new people, after leaving her husband upon whom she depended for everything; for me it was becoming a primary caregiver and decision-maker for my… show more.

I love stories about those offbeat, quirky characters who defy the usual mould, and Britt-Marie fits the bill like a superstar.

Despite her quirks and a tangled web of complexities, she effortlessly wove her way into my heart while transforming an entire village in the process.

Books that spotlight women in their '60s embracing new chapters in life are rare gems, and Britt-Marie's unlikely journey is an exhilarating testament to human resilience.

The fact that she, the most unexpected of heroes, took charge of her destiny and carved a new path for herself is nothing short of awe-inspiring. It reminds… show more.

Every novel that Fredrik Backman writes is amazing, and this is no exception. This heartwarming story bursts with quirky characters, including Britt-Marie, a neurodiverse older lady who is on her own after years of marriage. Admittedly, I was put off by Britt-Marie's direct and often rude mannerisms, but soon I grew to care about her, and by the end of the book, I absolutely adored her. Backman has had more successful novels, such as a Man called Ove and Beartown, but seeing a mature woman as the focal point was great. 

I love how Backman is able to pinpoint human nature with very small means. Britt-Marie as an aging, thorny character jumps off the page and instantly made me sympathize with her. Following her journey from feeling stuck to walking out on her cheating husband and finding herself the unexpected caretaker of a recreation center, was so invigorating. Every step of the way, the softening of her edges as her authentic zest for life and interest in new acquaintances arise made the book unputdownable. I will read whatever Backman writes.