The Answer is No by Fredrik Backman

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 68 pages
Published: December 2024

If you know anything about my reading life you should know Fredrik Backman is my auto-read author. I enjoy how he constructs sentences and crafts novels. So, when Amazon offered his short story as one of the free selections for the First Reads program, I promptly downloaded my copy. It didn't hurt that we were discussing and sharing short stories in my Literary Society the following month. 

The Answer is No is a fast-paced, lighthearted, and funny short story about the complexities and absurdities of human relationships. The story centers around Lucas who lives in an apartment complex unit and just wants to say yes to playing his video game, eating his pad Thai, and having a little wine, and no to pretty much everything else. Through Backman's witty prose, the story quickly grows to include Lucas' surrounding neighbors, and what seems like a simply superficial story is actually a bit deeper. The author does what he excels at by blending lighthearted moments with profound honesty.

Backman's writing always provides all the feels, and this one did not disappoint. I found myself chuckling at one moment and pondering the human condition the next. He is a masterful storyteller, and I think this book is no exception. 

Recommendation: I definitely give a thumbs up on this quick read. While short, it is a thought-provoking and satisfying read for those who enjoy contemporary/modern fiction. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Mrs. Perez by Oscar Casares, Levar Burton (narrator)

Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Length: 45:18 

I listened to this short story, Mrs. Perez, by Oscar Casares and read by none other than Reading Rainbow's Levar Burton. Mr. Burton, who has been a proponent of reading all his life has a delightful podcast titled, Levar Burton Reads. And it's just what it sounds like. He's reading some of his favorite books via podcast that can be consumed anywhere podcasts are housed. My medium of choice is Spotify. Burton's lovely voice and passion for reading come through loud and clear. 

This story (episode 16) is set in Brownsville, Texas. Having family from Kingsville, which is just north of Brownsville, made this story relatable to me. Having a sassy grandmother made it even more so relatable. 

The titular character, Lola Perez, is a 68-year old woman who set aside her education and career pursuits to take care of her (now deceased) husband, Augustine as well as her children. Now, in her third act of life, she's taken up bowling and is quite good at it, winning a couple dozen trophies. When her bowling bag with her prized bowling ball is stolen, she decides that enough is enough. In her attempt to reclaim her property, I think Mrs. Perez reclaims her dignity. 

The story is short, but it does not lack in depth. The prose is beautiful, and in listening to it, the reader is immediately transported to Mrs. Perez's world. 

Recommendation: This story is about a woman finding her voice and standing up in what she believes. No matter what the age, I think girls and women alike can be inspired by Mrs. Perez. I'm thankful to have a real-life Mrs. Edna (Hi Grandma!) in my life. 

Until next time ... Read on!

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