Review: Anxious People by Fredrik Backman

Title: Anxious People

Author: Fredrik Backman

Publisher: Atria Books

Published: September 8, 2020

Pages: 352

Format: Netgalley e-ARC, Thanks Atria books!

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Oh, Backman can do no wrong. Okay, a strong statement and I hope I didn’t jinx him. I just love his writing and this one is no exception!

You start off thinking, this is a book about a bank robbery?! Hmm.. not sure how this is going to grab me right away?! Except that it does and it doesn’t let go.

Backman has an amazing way of writing very human and flawed characters and making you fall in love with them. This is much more about a bank robbery but more about all the people it touches. All these people come together from a single act. This is truly about anxious people. They are anxious for so many reasons. There are little reasons and huge reasons but ultimately how do they deal with it is the journey. So many of these characters have a special place in my heart.

Another thing Backman is amazing at is his writing style. He has such a fabulous way with words that really blow your mind. There’s something really small that ends up making a huge impact later and you didn’t even see it. He’s also so witty. I don’t know another author that can break my heart and make me laugh at the same time. Genius. His stories aren’t predictable and that’s what I loved about this. I didn’t know who was doing what! This is a very character-driven book, so keep that in mind.

This story is also very thought-provoking. It kept taking me back to my philosophy class in college. I hated that class but it has made an impact on really trying to see both sides of a story. There’s a lot in this book that really makes you think. Is this wrong? Yes. Are the reasons valid? Yes. but No. Is this forgivable? Yes and No.

This was such a moving and enjoyable story. I had such a book hangover after that it was hard for me to leave and pick up another story. I cannot wait for the world to read this book. I will definitely be buying a physical copy myself. I did find myself laughing, in tears, and joyful. Please make sure to read the Author Notes in the end. This book was personal for him and it makes it a bit more impactful. ❤

Thank you, Netgalley & Atria Books, for providing me with an e-ARC of this book. It has in no way influenced my opinions!