Kristin Maloney recently enjoyed Things My Son Needs to Know about the World by the #1 New York Times bestselling author Fredrik Backman, a book of humourous yet poignant essays filled with fatherhood insight and advice. Here is her review:

"Do you know how airports explain everything about religion and war? Have you learned the reason that starting a band is crucial to cultivating and keeping friendships? Do you need tips on how to navigate the inherent dangers of shopping at IKEA? Well then look no further because Things My Son Needs to Know about the World by  Fredrik Backman will give you the answers to the above questions and dozens more! This book contains a hilarious collection of poignant essays filled with fatherhood insight and advice, which the author intends to pass on to his newborn son one day, as a tool for him to use in order to succeed in this world.  It pulls together all the personal thoughts, trials, adventures, mishaps and experiences from the front lines of being a new dad. Fredrick Backman conveys his profound awe at experiencing all the “firsts” which fill him with wonder and find him completely unprepared. The author also doesn’t shy away from revealing his own false steps and fatherly flaws by tackling issues both great and small - from masculinity, the purpose of life, romance and of course, lots of stories about poop. In between all the highs and lows that come with having a newborn, Backman takes a step back to share his true story of falling in love with a woman who is his complete opposite, and learning to live a life that revolves around the people you care for unconditionally. Many people will recognize this author for many of his highly successful fictional works, but I tremendously enjoyed getting to know this very personal version of Fredrik Backman on a human level by reading through his real life experiences. This is a must read for anyone who has ever enjoyed his previous works but also to anyone looking for a humorous read on what it takes to be a new parent!"

You can reserve Things My Son Needs to Know about the World from the library by placing a hold here.