Anxious People is a funny, moving contemporary novel about a failed bank robbery that spirals into a heartfelt meditation on fear, hope, and human connection. The book blends humor with piercing insight and is perfect for adults who love character-driven stories, warm wit, and coming-to-the-heart moments. On New Year’s Eve, a group of anxious strangers become unlikely witnesses—and perhaps something more—as they navigate fear, miscommunication, and the strange ways people reach out to each other. It’s a story that matters to anyone who has ever wondered what it means to be truly seen.
Backman’s signature voice brings the characters to life—Anna-Lena and Roger, Julia and Ro, Zara, Estelle—through brisk chapters and shifting viewpoints that keep the pace lively. Anxious People unfolds like a cleverly braided tapestry of scenes: dialogue, misreads, and tiny acts of kindness that reveal the humanity beneath the chaos. The narrative is funny, tender, and accessible, inviting readers to root for everyone involved while they confront their own anxieties. Its warmth has translated beautifully to the screen, with a Netflix adaptation bringing these characters to life.
- Ensemble cast of imperfect, relatable characters whose lives converge on New Year’s Eve
- Brisk, multi-voiced storytelling with short chapters and interconnected perspectives
- Humor, warmth, and insightful exploration of connection, empathy, and misunderstandings
- Warm, witty writing style that balances lightness with heartfelt moments; now a Netflix series adaptation that expands the world you love
After finishing Anxious People, readers feel seen, hopeful, and better equipped to approach life’s chaos with patience and warmth. The book leaves you with a comforting sense of humanity’s resilience and a belief that connection can bloom in the most unexpected places.
