A man called OVE. by Fredrik Backman

Not quite a happy holiday read.

An excellent story with well drawn characters, this book is not for the emotionally vulnerable, the Hussies were moved to laughter and tears in equal measure. The author portrays life in a small residential area of Sweden, focusing on the trials and tribulations of the loveable protagonist, Ove. 

It is a well written book that slowly reveals Ove's rather tragic life story by weaving events of the past into the present. Ove makes some rather unlikely friendships through out the book raising the question, does the author share the BBC's obsession with representing every sector of society in one show (Balamory). A bitter sweet story with some comic moments, one Hussie found it particularly ridiculous that a cat would go for a walk and  go to a coffee shop with its owner. In order to really enjoy the book its important to remember that it is a work of fiction, its' real appeal is that it can excite a wide range of emotions within the reader. It offers some insight into life in modern day Sweden. Generally a popular book that is easy to read and keeps the reader engaged.

The Rat at Anick provided the back drop for our discussion of the book. A traditional country pub where all the food was of a very high standard, succulent lamb chops with fresh tasty seasonal vegetables really were superb. With a cheese board to share at the end of the meal the Hussies were very impressed, although as ever attention to detail being paramount, it was pointed out that the cheese had not been out of the fridge long enough. Overall a superior meal that definitely warrants a return trip.

This month we will be reading 'Shot Gun Love Songs' by Nickolas Butler.