Happy happy TUESDAY, friends!
This morning, I woke up in good old McKinney, TX 🙂 .
Kensington has cheer stuff this week, so we are back for a few days while the other four stayed behind on Nantucket. Summer is not over for the Shull family…buuuuuut it is quickly dwindling down. I have approximately 45 emails in my inbox from their various schools about “back to school” quickly approaching lest I forget. As much as I do not want summertime to end, I am SO excited about our upcoming fall! All four Shull kiddos have big things in store for the new school year which makes it easier for this mama to transition from this season to the next. Also, pumpkins. Pumpkins make everything better 🙂 .
Alrighty, it’s the 22nd of the month which means, it’s BOOK CLUB DAY!
I LOVE chatting books with you!
Okay, just to recap before we begin…
Here are the books we discussed in 2024 along with my own personal “star ratings”…
The Last Love Note by Emma Grey 4 STARS
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon 5 STARS
The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins 3 STARS
The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin 3 STARS
Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth 4 STARS
The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl 2 STARS
Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand 3 STARS
Husbands & Lovers by Beatriz Williams 3 STARS
By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult 4 STARS
Madwoman by Chelsea Bieker 4 STARS
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout 2 STARS
And so far in 2025, we’ve discussed:
In January: The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry 5 STARS
In February: Brooke Shields is Not Allowed to Get Old by Brooke Shields 2 STARS
In March: The Crash by Freida McFadden 3 STARS
In April: One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter 5 STARS
In May: All That Life Can Afford by Emily Everett 3 STARS
In June: Maine Characters by Hannah Orenstein 2 STARS
If you want to check out any of these Book Club posts, they are all HERE!
Before we get to today’s book, let’s revisit the “rules” of Shay’s Book Club:
Here are the details:
1: On the 22nd of each month, I will share a BONUS blog post that is only about the book we read together that month. So, if it falls on a weekend, look for it that day, if it falls on a Tuesday, expect a food post, a normal lifestyle post AND third post just for the book review discussion.
2: I picked the 22nd because I want this post to come out BEFORE our normal monthly BOOK REVIEW POSTS. I will still share my normal monthly book reviews (where I average 4 to 6 books a month) at the end of each month. I will reference said “book of the month”, but I will not be reviewing it on that post, I will be linking back to the BOOK CLUB POST. Why? Because I want all of the content about the one specific book club book in one spot instead of spread out over multiple spots.
3: Each month at the end of the Book Club blog post, I will share what the book will be for the following month. This will give everyone one month to read this one particular book.
4: Let’s be real, I’m going to try to pick new/popular/relevant books every month, but I’m also going to pick books that speak to me. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to share them with me. I’m going to *try* and make the books different genres each month. I would love for us to read a variety of fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, chick lit, thrillers, etc this year. That’s the *goal*.
5: What are the rules of the book club? I know a lot of book clubs have rules and perhaps I’ll add some as we go, but basically, if you want to read along with us, we’d love to have you and on the 22nd we’ll dive a little deeper in the comment section here about that one particular book. Easy as that! That post is the one place where we’ll discuss the book so that all thoughts/opinions/questions/etc can be in one location.
6: In this blog post and in the comment section, WE WILL BE DISCUSSING SPOILERS. If you are interested in reading this book, you might not want to read below this line. In JULY’S BOOK REVIEW later this month, I will give a quick recap and let you know if I recommend the book or not, so if you haven’t read it, you might want to wait until that official BOOK REVIEW because there will be no spoilers and based on that, you can decide whether or not to read the book. Anything below this though will include spoilers as everyone commenting here has already read the book.
Make sense?
Here we go!
This month’s novel was…
….My Friends by Fredrik Backman.
Sigh.
Okay.
You were all right.
I was wrong.
It apparently is possible for me to enjoy a Fredrik Backman book. 😉
You guys, I LOVED My Friends!
I know I am the exception here, but in the past, I have not loved his books because not only did they feel very “wordy” to me, but they always felt heavy and sad and the endings just left me feeling blah. I don’t love reading through pages and pages and pages of heavy writing only to feel drained at the end. I know, I know, I know…I am wrong, all of his books are amazing, and I am the problem.
This novel though pulled me in on the first page and kept me going the entire time. I mean, could I have made it a smidge shorter? Yes, (I thought those chapters on the train could have been trimmed), but the actual plot and the narrative and the wildly unique cast of characters made me excited to pick up my Kindle each day.
Here are some quick thoughts:
1: I loved the dynamic of everyone’s relationships. I loved Louisa and the artist at the beginning of the novel, I loved Louisa and Ted. Ali and Joar. I loved Joar and the artist, Joar and Ted…I could go on. Each relationship was a little fragile but fiercely loyal.
2: I loved how the painting kept morphing and we discovered bit by bit the focal point and motivation behind it.
3: I was so thankful (I think I might have actually sighed out loud with relief) when Ted got off the train and found Louisa after she ran away.
4: I loved the protectiveness that was Ted and C. Jat’s friendship.
5: The story of their summer together as young friends was hard to read at times, so I was VERY happy to see the book come full circle at the end.
6: The addition of Christian’s plot line and especially his mother as a main character towards the end was a wonderful layer. I was so happy that she too came full circle with the adult friends.
Overall the message of the book that resonated the most with me, the one I have thought about numerous times since I finished the last page was the artist’s insistence that he lived a long life. Was it short in years? Yes. Was it actually though really long because it was full in love and experiences? YES.
I am 43 years old and though I wish to live at least another 43 years on this Earth, should the good Lord take me tomorrow, my life was long. My life has been so long if it is measured by love and experiences. It’s been incredibly long, and I feel incredibly blessed. That’s a beautiful perspective and a lovely way to frame a “short” long life.
Who knew Backman could make me have a moment with the Lord?! Not me!
This was a beautiful novel. I loved it. Two very big thumbs up from me.
Okay, coming up next…
…The View From Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani.
Don’t forget, if you want to stay current on all of the books I’m reading in 2025, THIS PAGE HERE is where I keep the books, authors and reviews each month.
Okay, please head to the comment section to share your thoughts on today’s Book Club pick today! I feel very very confident many of you will have a lot of positive feedback about this one. I am personally so happy this Book Club pushed me out of my “beach book July” phase and made me read it 🙂 .
I have one extra post before you leave today. I am answering your TOP 5 {NANTUCKET} TRAVEL QUESTIONS today too!
I’ll see you tomorrow! xx
Amy Azza says
I loved this book, until the last chapter. I found it anticlimactic. I am sure I am the only one who didn’t love the ending. I thought it was too predictable that Louisa didn’t sell the painting, donated it, and became a famous artist, and I thought the book was building up that Joar died young and had a tragic life, and he did not. I just loved it until the last chapter. The book had me, though, it was brilliantly written until that last chapter.
Elspeth Mizner says
I’ve been worried that his books will be too heavy for me too! Thanks for the suggestion! Looking forward to the next book!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Susan Jeffries says
I have been considering reading this one but I was waiting for your review. I will add it to my Kindle today! We are reading Atmosphere this month and TJR has the best character development! I enjoyed it. Thanks!
Kay says
Good morning from Nantucket! (Just got back from a dog walk to Wicked bakery :). Your book club plus cinnamon rolls and iced coffee=the best morning ever.
I do like this author, but I may not have picked up this book. I’m so glad I did! I absolutely loved it. HIs writing is amazing. At the very beginning, I was frustrated because I wanted more details. What was the artist’s name? What happened to all his friends? Then, I realized as I read that these characters are slow to trust people. (With good reason). They don’t open up to just anyone. And that made me realize we as readers had to “work” to get to know them too. Once I fell into that mind frame, I loved it even more.
I’m so glad you chose this as I really enjoyed it and it’s one of those books that will stay with me. In addition to the artist appreciating his life well lived, I also loved how despite really difficult circumstances, these friends knew and talked about how lucky they were to show have each other. Their gratitude over what they had (vs what they didn’t) was very touching.
Looking forward to the next one!
Mix and Match Mama says
That sounds like the PERFECT morning!
Lorraine says
I loved this book!! It was also a 5 star for me. I loved the depth of characters. I found myself laughing out loud. And just moved by a weird quirky truth of people that was so random but so true!! There were so many parts that I had to reread because the writing was so rich. He is masterful with his words!! And yet, he moves you along in the story, which is rare to have both! I fell in love with the characters, which seemingly seems hard because they are all so weird. And yet, I kept finding myself identifying with them in some small way. FB continues to be one of my favorite authors and I was just delighted with this book!
Taylor says
I LOVED this book. I loved every single character and felt attached to all of them. When the artist died in the beginning, I sobbed. That’s when I knew this book would stick with me.
Wendy Wilson says
I am a long time reader (I live in Dallas, TX – same neighborhood where your brother’s family used to live -and I love your blog!) but this is the first time that I have commented. I have a book recommendation for you. The title is “Theo of Golden” and the author is Allen Levi. This is one of the most unique and impactful books that I have ever read. The book tells the story of an older gentleman who has had many unique life experiences, and his mission in his older age is do meet interesting people and do good things in the world. The ending is a shocker and the most impactful part of the story. The entire book might just reshape the way you see certain parts of your world. The book is available on Amazon and my church also has a copy that members can borrow.
Mary Anne Duke says
Yes, if I had 5 thumbs I would put them up for Theo of Golden. I mentioned this once before when you were mentioning savoring. I have savored being with Theo in Golden. It is not fast paced but, unique and wonderful 👍👍👍👍👍
Heather D. Henderson says
I was so anxious to hear your thoughts on this book. I thought the start wasn’t smooth and wasn’t drawn in until I was about 15% in. I agree it drug on at times. I liked all of the chapters on the train trip. It was my favorite part. What you wrote about a long life is beautiful and so true. Overall I’m glad I read this book. I have a feeling it may not be for everyone. Enjoy the rest of your summer.
BeckyM says
I was waiting to see how you liked it before I picked it up! I’ve learned about myself that the setting of a book is a big deal for me, especially when it’s a big factor in the book. Backman’s settings have been so bleak which really adds to the heaviness of his books (the ones I’ve read) and I just don’t love that. He’s such a good writer, though! I’m looking forward to trying this one!
Tiffany says
So glad your Backman streak was broken. I loved this book and gave it five stars too (but Beartown is still my favorite book of his).
Michelle says
Loved this book! I actually listen to books these days (long commute – 1 hour each way) and in case anyone asks, the audible version is excellent! There were times when it was a little slow, but I loved the friendships and how, like you said, the painting was presented to us in whole over time. We didn’t even know about Ali until mid book, correct? Thank you for the recommendation, yet again!
Kara Flynn says
I have loved all his books and this one was right up there. I kept rereading, reading slow to just absorb his words. I underlined the sentences that grabbed me. Mostly the ones about love and motherhood. I’ve been waiting to see if you liked the book and this post made my day 😉
Keryn Dias says
Yes! Some of his sentences take my breath away. He’s always an automatic read for me.
Megan Ferchen says
I have a love/hate relationship with Fredrik. This book is going in the OMG! I loved it so much column. The whole time I was reading, I was preparing myself for a not so happy ending (because we know Fredrik does that) and then…it wasn’t. I loved, loved, loved everything about this book and I’ll be telling everyone to read it…ASAP!
Faye says
I love your takeaway from the book. Living a long, full life is more about the love and the people in it – not so much the years. Thanks for that! 🙂
Emily says
This was my first Backman book and I listened on audio. The writing style was hard for my to follow along, it felt very dragged out. I think I like a more linear timeline? The ending is was saved this book for me. I love the friendship theme!
Mary says
I loved this book, so glad you loved it too!🥰
Laci Uhrbom says
Loved your review and can’t wait for next month’s pick!
Jaime Surrett says
Five Stars for me too! I loved this book. I read most of it in one sitting at the pool because I could not put it down. I loved the relationship between Louisa and Ted – the continued references to “one of us” was beautiful and I thought really captured the human desire to feel completely known and completely loved. In the end, don’t we all want someone to see us and say “You’re one of us”? I was so thankful it ended the way it did – yes, a little sad, but not tragic, if that makes sense? Death isn’t always tragic if it was a life well lived. And the fact the story seems to continue with Louisa finding another “one of us” was a lovely way to wrap up the book, but also remind us that our stories continue in the lives of those we impact. Looking forward to next month’s read!
Missy says
Jaime, I love that you honed in on the idea of belonging and feeling seen, valued, known. I think that’s a recurring theme in Backman’s work and that’s something I love about his writing—he goes so deeply into each character and shows us that every person, no matter how small or misunderstood or on the fringes of society, matters.
Erika Slaughter says
Hmmm…I’m gonna need you to text me. Will I like this one?
Mix and Match Mama says
I actually think you will!
Yolanda McLean says
Well, I am so surprised that so many loved this book. It’s currently a did not finish for me. It drug on and on and I couldn’t stand to read another page. I listened to it and couldn’t stand it another minute longer. I thought that maybe after I read your review and comments that maybe I’d give it another go, but the lack of enjoyment is lingering and I think I’ll write this one off as not for me.
Denise M says
Same for me! I very rarely do not finish books, but I could not get in to this one at all. Glad I’m not the only one 🙂
Alyssa J says
I’m not one to enjoy listening to profanity (& this book had A LOT), but I felt like it fit the situation. It wouldn’t ring true to have teenagers who went through the tragedies and difficulties that they faced speaking without some bad words. Their sacrifices and friendships were prodound.
Emily Firko says
I think I am in the minority here because I didn’t love it. I found that the entire book drug on too much for me. I wasn’t excited to pick it up and read it. This was my first book by this author and I don’t think I care for his style of writing. Excited for August’s pick! I just read James Patterson’s book about the Idaho 4 killings and found it interesting.
Yolanda McLean says
I commented above that I didn’t care for this book either. I just popped back in the comments to read more and see you felt the same. I was so surprised when I realized my very next book after this one was A Man Called Ove by the same author. I really enjoyed A Man Called Ove but couldn’t even finish My Friends
Holly K says
I am exactly the same as you Yolanda, Did not enjoy this book at all and am surprised by how many people are raving about it. I did not enjoy it at all but I did really love A Man Called Ove but this one and every other book of his I’ve read besides “Ove” have been big no thanks for me.
Holly K says
I have been anxiously awaiting your review because I too was on Team No Thanks Blackman. (Except I LOVED “A Man Called Ove” but that was it, the rest have been misses for me.) Typically, we have very similar tastes in books and what we like, what annoys us about books so I was eagerly anticipating your book review on it because I was SURE we’d be on the same page (pun totally intended.) But you surprised me with this one, I was totally not expecting you to like it! 🙂 I listened to it on audio and finished it a few weeks ago and I am sad to say that while I enjoyed the characters, some of the dialogue, and that line about the short long life, it was just not for me. I think it’s his writing style, I just felt like it was unnecessarily long and rambling so much that it annoyed me. Yes, there were some things i really liked about it but it just did not capture or hold my attention. I almost gave up on it several times because it was just dragging for about the first third but then I felt too invested in Louisa and Ted to give it up so I stuck it out and liked the last 1/3 (maybe because i knew the end was finally in sight? haha) far more than the first part but still a no for me. The audio was really well done so that also helped but I think I’m saying bye to Blackman books forever now. I’m taking such heat from my friends on Goodreads for not liking this one because “it’s THE book getting all the buzz and EVERYONE loves it” so am dying to see if there are any other outliers in your comments section!
Yolanda McLean says
Since I added this book to my DNF stack, I have seen multiple people rave about it. Just today I heard someone list it as amazing. I don’t get it. I also really enjoyed A Man Called Ove. I enjoy the book club for this very reason though!
Holly K says
I’m with you on this one! Wait, maybe i should’ve written 700 words to tell you that. 😉
Mix and Match Mama says
That made me lol!
Kim says
I loved this review Shay! He’s a hit or miss for me too but now I’m excited to pick this one up. I’m currently reading Broken Country and there is a character named Louisa in there as well. Have a great day in McKinney!
Kate says
Dwindling down?! It’s not even August. When do you start school? We have 6 weeks left!
Mix and Match Mama says
August 7th! Sigh.
Ginger says
His style is quite different and can take some getting used to and some time in each book to fully get involved. I listened to this one and, quite honestly, almost gave up. It was at about the 90 minute mark that I finally was there. And then — I LOVED it and will give it 5 stars on Goodreads. I loved his Beartown trilogy, but the first one in that trilogy also took me a bit. I also have that issue with William Kent Krueger’s books, but they almost always end up being a 5 as well.
WhittyWife (Lindsay) says
I too started the book with some skepticism… but you didn’t steer me wrong! I really enjoyed it too! ❤️ It was heavy, and a little long, but I’m also glad I read it. And I agree, the parts about living a long life, and the artist’s life of gratitude, were such a great perspective.
Onto next month’s book – it looks great!!
Susan Dike says
Loved his book “A Man Called Ove” but loved this even more. The relationship between Ted and Louisa was my favorite. Beautiful writing and moving story. Laughed and cried. Favorite of the year for me. 2nd place so far is “God of the Woods”
Julie says
I finished it yesterday and I didn’t even realize it was your book for the month. I really enjoyed it! I loved the friendships and there were a couple twists for me that I didn’t expect. Also loved the long short life comments by the artist.
Dana J says
This book is on my TBR list and now that you’ve given it 5 stars I’m excited to read it! I will come back after to read the post…I only read the first little bit so I didn’t read any spoilers!