I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

Before I start, I should mention that Fredrik Backman is one of my favourite authors and that I went into this book with high expectations. Things My Son Needs to Know About the World is a collection of essays and lessons that Backman wants to pass on to his infant son. It’s quick, witty, insightful, and heartfelt, and it had me smiling from beginning to end.

My favourite thing about this book is that it was hilarious. I read part of this book at a coffee shop, and I’m sure people were staring at me, wondering why I was quietly giggling to myself. The essay titled What You Need to Know About IKEA was one of the funniest things I’ve read in a while, but it was also one of the sweetest and heartfelt things I’ve read in a while. I also found the short sections between essays to be laugh-out-loud funny, and I especially enjoyed the dialogue that Backman had with his wife.

The other thing I loved about this book is how insightful and heartfelt it was. Underneath all of the humour and jokes is a father who is doing his best to be the best father he can be. One of the major themes of this book is love: loving your child, loving your significant other, and loving your friends. This book is a reminder of the important things in life: standing up for what you believe in, having friends who will be there for you, and that stuff isn’t more important than people.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. I think it was funny and full of important lessons that everyone can appreciate.