“A Man Called Ove”, is a best seller written by the Swedish author Fredrik Backman. The story is about an old man, named Ove aged 59, who wanted to end his life after his beloved wife was dead and he was forced to retire earlier due to the downsizing of his company. All the bad experiences and sad stories kept staying in his mind pushing him to think negatively. Ove became a grumpy old man who seemed to hate the world and bored with everything. He was full of anxiety and loneliness. Ove found that everything happened to him was bad and he felt disappointed and upset, until a new neighbour moved in, his life was changed and his mind was opened up. His new neighbour and the family softened the heart of him and also changed his view on life. Last and most importantly, they helped Ove to pass through the hard time.

It is a heart-warming and interesting story that full of love and humor. When the story unfolds the history of Ove, it was very touching and you might get moved. Readers would feel sympathy for Ove for the bad situation he encountered. You would smile and laugh whenever Ove tried to suicide, his neighbor bumped in and interrupted him from killing himself.

Upon the loss of his wife, it seemed to be the end of the world for Ove. And Ove seemed to be a person hard to be make a friend, yet, he was kind and helpful. Ove, indeed a man often expresses his kindness through actions rather than giving a word. For example, Ove helped his neighbor to save a cat, took care of and play with the children. The appearance of new neighbor saved Ove and transformed him to an optimistic person. The writer aims to give out a message about the importance of loss and grief, the importance of friendship and how does one life impacted on others make a difference. Support and caring from family, friends and neighbors do help one to get through hard times and bring joy to their lives.

“Life is not easy” always comes up in my mind. When his neighbor told Ove, “We can busy ourselves with living or with dying, Ove. We have to move on”, definitely reminds us to overcome the difficulties. This book opens up the way of understanding the life of senior citizens and how to build up the connection with the seniors. Importantly, to build up a good, close and trusting relationship with parents, neighbour or just simply friends.