For our second bonus episode for 2023, we stay across the pond and get to chat with the #1 New York Times best-selling author of the Beartown Series, A Man Called Ove, and Anxious People - Fredrik Backman! Elin and Tim chat with Fredrik about his origin story, his debut novel A Man Called Ove and where the idea for this iconic story came from, his Beartown series and the hockey team and town in the trilogy, and his writing process. We hear the differences between publishing in the U.S. and Sweden, why he thinks his characters resonate so much with people, the stigmas around mental health, and the screen adaptation A Man Called Otto starring Tom Hanks.A special thank you to our Episode Sponsors:Marine Home CenterBook of the Month - limited time, first book for just $5 with code ELINFredrik Backman Reading List:A Man Called OveBritt- Marie Was HereBeartownUs Against YouThe WinnersAnxious PeopleWhat else are we reading in this episode:The Castaways by Elin HilderbrandWinter Street Series by Elin HilderbrandThe Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas AdamsThe Other Side of Sadness by George A. BonannoFollow/Subscribe to the 'Books, Beach, & Beyond' podcast now to stay current on new episodes.And find us on Instagram at @booksbeachandbeyondHappy Reading!