Printable Book Club Questions for My Friends by Fredrik Backman

Have you read any of Fredrik Backman’s previous books? How does My Friends rank compared to his other stories?
The book jumps back and forth in timelines, with multiple perspectives. Why do you feel the author decided to tell this story in this way?
Was there a character you connected with, and why?
The novel details the story behind the most famous painting in the world, The One of the Sea. Why did this painting inspire such a following? How was it widely misunderstood by the general public?
Why was Louisa so drawn to the painting? What does it say about Louisa that she was able to decipher the true meaning of the painting, while others did not?
What was your impression of her encounter with the artist, Kimkim? How did this set the stage for what was to come?
What are your thoughts about Louisa as a whole? How did she change from the beginning of the novel to the end?
The book is about friendship, broken homes, found family, and finding “your people.” Why did Kimkim, Joar, Ted, and Ali share such a strong connection?
Why did Kimkim choose to draw this painting? What did it really represent to him and his friends?
This is quite a dark book in many ways, highlighting abuse, trauma, depression, violence, and death. Why do you feel there was such a focus on those areas, and how did it influence the reading experience for you?
Let’s talk about the impact of Christian, the jaintor who helped Kimkim see his potential, on the story as a whole?
What finally prompted Ted and Louisa to bond?
What are your thoughts on the ending? What happens next for all the main characters?
Is there a piece of art that you enjoy, similar to how so many loved Kimkim’s painting?
Did you highlight any passages or scenes? If so, who would like to share those?