Wow, what a gem of a book! After a rather rocky start to my reading year, I'm so delighted to have picked up ANXIOUS PEOPLE. It's my first book by Frederik Backman, but it certainly won't be the last! This novel combines humour with deep emotional insights, making it an absolute standout.

Backman excels in delivering sharp wit throughout the narrative. His humor is well-timed and effective (I genuinely burst out laughing a few times), providing a delightful contrast to the more serious themes within the story. The plot twists are clever, surprising, and satisfying. The revelations about the characters are so engaging that they manage to add layers upon layers to the tale as it unfolds.

One of the most compelling aspects of Anxious People is its emotional range. From laughter to sorrow, Backman expertly explores his characters' experiences, making the story both moving and memorable. Backman's insightful observations on the human condition are also woven throughout the book. I was highlighting gleefully as I read! I can't wait to pick up another book by Backman. I'm delighted to have found a new favorite author. ( )

A good book, not a great book, mainly because reading Anxious People made me, well, anxious. I was quite impressed by how the author could draw in so many quasi-main characters (11 all toll) and not lose me. That is true artistry.

I have read another Backman book, and it was an over-the-top winner. Unfortunately, it may have set an unrealistic bar, leaving Anxious People reaching in vain.

When a bank robber botches their first attempt at such, trying to rob a cashless bank, they run across the street, up the stairs, and into an open apartment in the middle of an open house. The robber, also unskilled at taking hostages, ends up with 8 of them: two married couples, one of whom was pregnant, an executive, a real estate agent, an elderly woman, and a man in a rabbit costume who was hired as an open house spoiler.

Throughout the book, Backman gives snippets of backstory for the characters and the two policemen who try to solve several mysteries during the book, including those of their family dynamic.

There are some endearing moments in the book when the least likely of the hostages end up consoling or befriending each other, and the book ends with a surprisingly sweet twist (or two) that leaves everyone in a happy and good place.

I still could have taken or left the book with all of this going on. I actually had to work at finishing it, not because it was dreadful, but more because it felt lackluster. Again, this may be because I was so over the moon with expectations due to my previous Backman read.
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Good book. A bit sad and hit a few nerves. The ending was beautiful. ( )

If I could give this book 100 stars I would, it made me laugh, it made me cry, it had me guessing. This is heartfelt and anyone and everyone could relate. I love this book so much I would recommend it to the world, it should be part of the reading curriculum in schools and even if you hate reading, you should read this book. Fredrik touched on issues so many of us go through and others don't even think twice about. If you have not read this book pick it up and if you are into audiobooks listen to the audiobook, I listened to the audiobook as well and oh man, talk about getting then Way to the lives of these characters was just perfect. Absolutely loved this book. ( )

2024-02-22: I haven't finished the first chapter and it's already impressed me with diagnosis of the human condition and the humor used in the diagnosis. My second Backman book and he's pushing everything else off the to-read list.

2024-02-25: I'm at 52% and have I've gone ahead and given it five stars. I hated the bits with Zara because she's a dipshit but this book is hilarious and full of improbable twists and turns and I'm still willing to accept because they're funny and not outrageous. At the same time he's got a great grip on the human condition. And so many great lines.

2024-02-26: The advanced 5-star rating was incorrect but a 6th star is not available. Do I need to downgrade A Man Called Ove in order to indicate the difference?

This was excellent, read it now and learn things. And then that finish! He hit the perfect ending over and over. You'd think it was done and then turn the page to find there was another chapter. And another, and another. ( )