Review of My Grandmother Sends her Regards and Apologies by Fredrik Backman

My Grandmother Sends her Regards and Apologies

This book is an absolute jewel. I was drawn into the story right from page one. I happened to be reading A Man Called Ove at the same time as I acquired this one, so I have had a wonderful immersion into the characters and stories of these remarkable characters.

The writing style is very direct and to the point, interspersed with such delightful moments of humor. Both of these books reinforce the concept that being different is much, much better than fitting in. The beauty of this concept is that being different leads to acceptance of all other “different” human beings (and animals!) and resolves into a joyous (though laced with poignancy and loss) ending.

Life and loss observed through the eyes of a clever child increases readers’ awareness of the foibles of other humans, and opens the mind to observation of their own idiosyncrasies and how humans can successfully communicate with one another for good outcomes. The book explores many relationships between adults, children, older adults, siblings, with many humorous descriptions, and always leaves the reader with hope that even the most impossible feelings between people can be turned positive.

This book will be loved by older children and ALL adults, who will be left with laughter in their hearts and tears in their eyes.

Reviewed by Pat Hodge