Are you looking for a book that can make you laugh, cry, and leave you feeling inspired? Look no further than “Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman. This book takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions, weaving together a poignant story of human connection and the complexities of mental health
Introduction
Published in 2019, “Anxious People” quickly became a bestseller in Sweden and across the world. It’s a novel that delves into the lives of several characters who find themselves in a tense and unexpected situation: a failed bank robbery turns into a hostage situation, with the would-be robber disappearing and leaving a group of strangers stuck together in an apartment
When does lying become a kindness, and when does the truth become cruelty?
Let’s discuss those situations through an example in which lying may be considered a kindness, and situations in which telling the truth may be considered cruel
If a terminally ill patient asks their doctor about their prognosis, the doctor may choose to soften the truth or withhold it altogether in order to spare the patient unnecessary pain and distress. In this case, lying may be considered a kindness, as it may give the patient some peace of mind and allow them to focus on the time they have left
If someone asks for your opinion on something that they have put a lot of effort into, it may be kinder to lie and say that it looks great, rather than telling them the truth that it doesn’t look good at all. In this case, the truth may cause unnecessary hurt and disappointment, and lying may spare their feelings
But the real question is that how this question is related directly to this masterpiece . Keep reading to find out
Anxious People Book Quotes
Anxious People Book Characters
Here are some of the main characters:
| The Bank Robber | A masked and armed man who takes a group of people hostage during an apartment viewing |
| Roger and Anna | a couple who are interested in buying the apartment, but get caught up in the hostage situation |
| Zara and Nadia | a lesbian couple who are looking for their first home together |
| Estelle | an elderly woman who is interested in the apartment for her son and daughter-in-law |
Anxious People Book Summary
“Anxious People” is a novel by Swedish author Fredrik Backman that tells the story of a hostage situation that unfolds during an apartment viewing.
The novel begins with the attempted robbery of a cashless bank by a desperate young man, who then flees to an apartment viewing across the street. There, he takes a group of people hostage, including a real estate agent, a couple looking to buy their first home, an elderly woman, a bank employee on her lunch break, and a lesbian couple.
As the hostage situation unfolds, the individual stories and struggles of the hostages and the bank robber are revealed. The real estate agent, who is struggling with his own insecurities and regrets, becomes a source of comfort and support for the hostages. The couple looking for their first home must confront their own relationship issues and insecurities. The elderly woman reveals a heartbreaking secret about her son, and the bank employee shares her own experiences with anxiety and panic attacks.
Meanwhile, the police and the media gather outside the apartment, and negotiations begin to try and end the hostage situation peacefully. As the story unfolds, the characters’ lives become intertwined in unexpected ways, and they must confront their fears, secrets, and vulnerabilities.
As the novel progresses, the identity of the bank robber is revealed, and the reasons behind his desperate actions are slowly uncovered. Ultimately, the novel is a reflection on the power of empathy and human connection, and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption and forgiveness
Key Takeaways of Anxious People
Here are some key takeaways from “Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman:
| The novel highlights the power of forgiveness and the possibility of redemption, even in the face of difficult and painful experiences |
| The novel explores the complex dynamics of human relationships, including romantic relationships, familial relationships, and friendships |
| The novel explores the impact of mental health issues such as anxiety and panic attacks on individuals and their loved ones |
| The novel emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding towards others, even in difficult situations |
If you love these type of genre then there is lots of content waiting for you : A TALE OF TWO CITIES BOOK SUMMARY
Anxious People Book Author
Fredrik Backman is a Swedish author who is best known for his novels, including “A Man Called Ove,” “My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry,” and “Anxious People.” He was born on June 2, 1981, in Stockholm, Sweden, and began his writing career as a blogger and columnist
Anxious People Book Genre
“Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman is a contemporary fiction novel that can be classified under several genres, including:
| Humorous Fiction | The novel features Backman’s signature quirky and humorous storytelling style, which lightens the mood even during serious moments |
| Mystery/Thriller | The novel’s plot centers around a hostage situation, and the mystery of the identity and motives of the bank robber creates a sense of tension and suspense throughout the story |
| Literary Fiction | The novel explores complex themes such as mental health, human relationships, and the power of empathy and human connection, with a focus on character development and introspection |
Books Like Anxious People
If you enjoyed reading “Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman, here are some other books that you may enjoy:
| “The Humans” by Matt Haig | Link |
| “The Rosie Project” by Graeme Simsion | Link |
| “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” by Rachel Joyce | Link |
| “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman | Link |
Anxious People Book Review
“Anxious People” is a celebration of the power of empathy and human connection, and a reminder that even in the midst of difficult and uncertain times, there is hope and possibility for redemption and healing. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy character-driven novels with themes of empathy and human connection
Anxious People Book Price In India
“Anxious People” is available on Amazon India . The Price of the Novel is 1819/- The price may vary depending on the format (e.g. paperback, hardcover, Kindle edition)
Anxious People Book Price In U.S
“Anxious People” is also available on Amazon U.S . The Price of the Novel is $15.99 The price may vary depending on the format (e.g. paperback, hardcover, Kindle edition)
Anxious People Audiobook
Audiobook of “Anxious People” is available on Audible.in. The price of this version is 888/- You can also find it on various audiobook platforms such as Google Play Books, and iTunes
Link of Audiobook : Anxious People
Conclusion
“Anxious People” is a book that will leave you feeling a range of emotions. It’s a poignant, funny, and ultimately hopeful story about the complexities of the human experience. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety yourself or simply looking for a great read, “Anxious People” is a book that is sure to leave an impression
FAQs
Is “Anxious People” a good book for people dealing with anxiety themselves?
Yes, “Anxious People” can be a great book for people dealing with anxiety. The book explores anxiety in a nuanced and compassionate way, and many readers have found comfort and validation in the characters’ experiences
Is “Anxious People” a serious book, or is it more lighthearted?
“Anxious People” has elements of both seriousness and humor. While the book deals with heavy topics like anxiety and grief, it also has moments of levity and comedic relief
Is “Anxious People” appropriate for all ages?
“Anxious People” deals with mature themes and contains some strong language, so it may not be appropriate for younger readers. However, it’s ultimately up to parents and guardians to make that determination for their children
What makes “Anxious People” stand out from other books about anxiety?
“Anxious People” stands out from other books about anxiety because of its emphasis on human connection and empathy
Is “Anxious People” a good book club selection?
Yes, “Anxious People” can be an excellent book club selection. The book provides ample opportunities for discussion around themes related to mental health, human connection, and forgiveness