Book-a-book of the Month Club discussion

Discuss the story here!

It is interesting how this story goes from humorous to poignant. I am finding humor in things that should not be funny (view spoiler)[ Ove's suicide attempts (hide spoiler)] and my heart strings tugged by humorous scenes (view spoiler)[Oves interactions with the neighbor's kids and the mangy cat (hide spoiler)].

It is definitely a unique book!

I'm not too far in, but definitely see the how I'm already feeling conflicted with humor vs serious matter.

What is the deal with the "men in white shirts"? I go from crazy thoughts like thinking the entire book is set in some psychiatric facility to thinking it's just a way to represent the authoritative role of some government vs the simple person!! Must. Keep. Reading.

Matthew wrote: "It is interesting how this story goes from humorous to poignant. I am finding humor in things that should not be funny [spoilers removed] and my heart strings tugged by humorous scenes [spoilers re..."

Yup.......I totally agree. I would go from laughing to crying. I love when a book can bring those emotions out at the same time.

Lindsey, I was also wondering about the white shirts for a bit, but think it's symbolic of "complicated bureaucracy" for someone like Ove.

I started to think more about "The Men in White Shirts" after you brought it up here.

Wasn't that a common cliche phrase to say to someone if you were threatening to have them sent away to an institution. For example: "Hey Bob, if you set all those fireworks off in the middle of the neighborhood, you are crazy! The men in white shirts will come and take you away!"

But, maybe I am remembering it incorrectly. Time to Google!