Book Review: Things My Son Needs To Know About The World
Book Name: Things My Son Needs to Know About The World
Author: Fredrik Backman
Publisher: Penguin
Genre: Non-Fiction (Fatherhood)
Format: Paperback
Print length: 208 pages
Rating:5/5
Fredrik Backman’s Things My Son Needs To Know About The World is Fredrik’s journey of fatherhood as he tried to navigate his son’s life through the learnings he had in his life and wanted to pass on to his son.
Blurb
'You can be whatever you want to be, but that's nowhere near as important as knowing that you can be exactly who you are'
Things My Son Needs to Know About the World is a tender and funny series of letters from a father to his son about one of life's most daunting experiences: parenthood.
In between the sleep-obsessed lows and oxytocin-fuelled highs, Backman takes a step back to share his own experience of fatherhood and how he navigates such unchartered territory. Part memoir, part manual, part love letter to his son, this book relays the big and the small lessons in life. As he watches his son take his first steps into the world, he teaches him how to navigate both love and IKEA and tries to explain why, sometimes, his dad might hold his hand just a little bit too tightly.
This is an irresistible and insightful collection from one of the world's most beautiful storytellers.
Review
Things My Son Needs To Know About the World by Backman is a non-fiction work in which he has explored different topics to enlighten his son from telling him about motion-sensitive bathroom lights to expectations, and things that readers would never expect, like IKEA, and important topics like what his son needs to know about being a man. This book is a light-hearted read that will leave readers thinking, laughing, giggling, getting emotional, and cherishing his fatherhood journey. And for parents, be it a reader who is a father or mother, or even someone's child, this book has a piece of takeaway for everyone.
The author's writing style is simple, humorous, and emotionally resonating. Every lesson he shares in this book will make readers feel nostalgic, and it will feel like it is written not for his son but just for them.
In one chapter, he said, "The best advice I can give you is to buy enough plates so that you don't have to do the dishes very often." I am sure every independent bachelor trying to make a life of her own will laugh out loud while reading this because they will know it is them who would take this advice for sure. Similar anecdotes will allow readers to read through this book.
Unlike storytelling by Backman, this story feels like a diary or a collection of letters written by a father to share things with his son that he could not directly tell him and wanted to keep in the form of a book so that these lessons live forever.
If you are someone who loves to read relatable anecdotes, advice, or a book that is more like a collection of letters, then this book is a quick read that will make you feel at home, laugh, cry, and feel refreshed.
If a book can refresh us, then it's a must-read.
ReplyDeleteEven as someone who’s never been a parent, I was moved by the wisdom and warmth Backman shared in this book and it is true that a simple lesson can leave a lifelong impact. I've read his other titles but this one is something new.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like a fun read. My father didn't leave any written lessons, so maybe this would be a nice approach to see what parenthood could be like.
ReplyDeleteI have read Fredrick Backman's Anxious people and didn't like the narration much but from your review, hoping this one is worth reading!
ReplyDeleteI have always appreciated Backman's books and writing style. This one has some tenderness and softness which his other books might have lacked, it would be interesting to read his take on parenting.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely loved reading your review! This book has been on my wishlist for a while, and your words just gave me the final push to pick it up. I’m a parent too, so I know this one’s going to hit home in the best way.
ReplyDeleteI am glad such book exists. There are many books abot motherhood, mother's love for her kid, what she thinks her kid must know. Thanks for your review.
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed reading Backman before and I have a feeling this, much needed boo, will be a wise read as well. Thank you for sharing your review. Mayuri/Sirimiri
ReplyDeleteSounds interesting but I shudder at the thought of my expanding TBR list
ReplyDeleteI’ve always admired Fredrik Backman’s books,the way he captures human quirks, everyday relationships, and those quiet emotional moments. This one touches on something so personal, and if anyone can put that into words with honesty and heart, it’s probably him.
ReplyDelete-Anjali Tripathi Upadhyay/Messymom
I think I will enjoy this one. There is no end to parenting styles and tips and anecdotes, and somehow we can read more and more and keep deriving lessons out of them all. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteThe book has an interesting topic. I generally do not read non-fiction, but definitely would love to read it. Parenting is a complicated journey, and to make it simpler, we need guidance sometimes.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read this author but I feel like I'll love this book. Thank you for the recommendation.
ReplyDeleteThis review beautifully captures the warmth, wit, and wisdom of Backman’s letters. It reads like a heartfelt hug—personal, reflective, and filled with genuine appreciation for the author’s tender storytelling. I love Backman
ReplyDeleteI have a notorious son and now after reading this jaw dropping review and truly feel like I should read it... Kya pata kuch kash mil jaye mere bete ko sikhane ka liye... ha ki nahi :)
ReplyDeleteThis author's writing always make me laugh/smile. I love how you highlight Backman’s blend of humor and heartfelt insight—from everyday tips like “buy enough plates” to the deeper reflections on love, fear, and masculinity. Will check out this one for sure
ReplyDeleteYour review truly captures the heart and soul of the book. I especially appreciated how you highlighted its gentle guidance for both parent and child ; something we all need more of as we navigate our roles.
ReplyDeleteI like that the book has a sense of humour which makes life lessons easier to understand and imbibe. Sounds like a refreshing read.
ReplyDeleteYour take perfectly captures Backman’s knack for mixing humour with heart, those “haha” parenting fails that quickly turn into aha life lessons really strike a chord. It’s the kind of essay‑nostalgia that makes you belly‑laugh, sniffle, and feel a little more human all at once.
ReplyDeleteWhat an excellent title! I am sure it's perfect for my daughters too! I love books with a sense of humor.
ReplyDeleteI think I will definitely like this book. Thanks for your honest review on this
ReplyDeleteI don't know why I haven't read this book yet. Your review makes me want to read it right away. Adding to my immediate TBR.
ReplyDeleteI don’t have a son, but the title pulled me in too. So many of the lessons felt universal—something I could share with my daughters as they grow. Great review!
ReplyDeleteSounds a bit 'Tuesdays with Morrie'-like. Will check it out.
ReplyDeleteNoor