A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
337 pages

What’s it about?
This book is about a grumpy old man (turns out he is 59- is that old now?) whose life is turned upside down by the arrival of new family in the neighborhood. 

What did I think?
This was the most charming book I have read in a long time.  I absolutely enjoyed the whole thing.  It was predictable at times, but the characters are so engaging that you just don’t care.

Should you read it?
It is a really sweet book that will make you laugh at times and tear up at times. If you are looking for a sweet, charming book with a wry senses of humor then you will want to read this novel.

Quote-
“He believed so strongly in things: justice and fair play and hard work and a world where right just had to be right.  Not so one could get a medal or a diploma or a slap on the back for it, but just because that was how it was supposed to be.  Not many men of this kind were made anymore, Sonja had understood.  So she was holding on to this one.  “

Question-
Are the authorities in Sweden really that intrusive?

If you like this try-

The Unlikely Pilgrammage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce

The Tower, the Zoo, and the Tortoise by Julia Stuart 

The Storied life of A.J. Fikrey by  Gabrielle Zevin

9 stars

Finders Keepers by Stephen King
431 pages

What’s it about?
This novel combines murder, suspense and the love of books into a page- turner.

What did I think?
I had to suspend my disbelief at times, but this was a book with a great plot, great villain, and even better crime fighting heroes.

Should you read it?
 "Finders Keepers" is said to be the middle book in a trilogy that began with “Mr. Mercedes”.   Bring on book #3!

Quote-
“For readers, one of life’s most electrifying discoveries is that they are readers- not just capable of doing it (which Morris already knew), but in love with it.  Hopelessly.  Head over heels.  The first book that does that is never forgotten, and each page seems to bring a fresh revelation, one that burn and exalts: Yes!  I saw that, too!  And of course, That’s what I think!  That's what I FEEL!”

Question-
Is Brady Hartsfield in there somewhere?

If you like this try-
Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King
The Long and Faraway Gone by Lou Berney
My Sunshine Away by M.O. Walsh

8 1/2 stars

One Summer by Bill Bryson
509 pages

What’s it about?
Bill Bryson takes us back to the summer of 1927 and reminds us of all that happened that wondorous year.   Babe Ruth hits 60 homeruns, Charles Lindbergh flies from New York to Paris, Al Capone is enjoying his last summer of prominence, the Federal Reserve lowers the interest rate and sets in motion what will become the great depression, the Mississippi floods and devastates much of the country, radio is coming of age, television is being developed, talking movies are the new discovery, bombs are flying, murders are happening and much more!

What did I think?
Every time I get bewildered about the state of the world it is good to go back and read a little history.   I always come away amazed at mans’ accomplishments, and puzzled by our inability to learn from our mistakes.

Should you read it?
Absolutely!

Quote-
“As Lindbergh covered the last leg from Cherbourg to Paris he had no idea that he was about to experience fame on a scale and intensity unlike any experienced by any human being before.”

Question-
Which story line was the most interesting to you?

If you like this try-
No Ordinary Time by Doris Kearns Goodwin

9 stars