“Beartown” by Fredrik Backman, and I’ve got to say, it’s a solid 4-star read! This book really packs a punch and left me with a lot to think about.

Set in a small town where hockey is everything, Backman dives deep into the heart of a community that’s both passionate and flawed. The way he captures the intensity of small-town life and the obsession with sports is just spot on. You can feel the weight of expectations on the characters, especially the young players who dream of making it big.

What I really loved about “Beartown” is how it tackles some heavy themes like loyalty, betrayal, and the impact of violence. The characters are so well-developed and complex—there are moments that will make you cheer for them and others that will break your heart. Backman does an amazing job of portraying the intricacies of human relationships and how one event can ripple through an entire community.

The writing is beautiful and poignant, weaving together different perspectives that give you a well-rounded view of the story. The emotions are raw and real, and there were definitely parts that had me tearing up. 

The only reason I didn’t give it a full five stars is that I felt some pacing issues in the middle. There were times when the story slowed down a bit too much for my liking. But overall, it’s a compelling read that stays with you long after you finish it.

If you’re looking for a book that dives into the heart of a community and explores what it means to belong, “Beartown” is definitely worth checking out. Have you read it yet? I’d love to hear your thoughts!