Newmag and Yeraz Projects present "Things My Son Needs to Know About the World" by Fredrik Backman

In this book, the author of the international bestseller A Man Called Ove meets his readers not just as a writer, but as a father, a human being, and a lifelong learner. Things My Son Needs to Know About the World is an open letter to his son—a candid, humorous, and heartfelt confession about life, love, friendship, making mistakes, and growing up. Backman makes no attempt to present himself as a perfect parent. On the contrary, he speaks openly about his anxieties, missteps, embarrassing moments, and the overwhelming reality of suddenly becoming responsible for another person's life. Here, fatherhood is not a set of ready-made answers, but a journey of daily trials, sleepless nights, boundless joy, and small yet crucial discoveries.

Throughout this book-length confession, Backman turns to life's surprisingly simple yet vital truths. He writes about friendship and love, human connection, finding your own path, and trying to make sense of the world. He also tells the story of the woman who is his complete polar opposite, and how he learned to build his world around the people he loves most.

What sets this work apart is Backman's signature blend of warm humor and self-deprecating honesty. Through hilarious and poignant anecdotes, he shows that life’s most meaningful lessons rarely come from perfect moments, but rather from errors, doubts, and imperfections. After all, it is imperfection that makes us real.

Things My Son Needs to Know About the World is not just for parents, or even new fathers. It will resonate with anyone who has ever loved, had to grow up too fast, searched for their place in the world, or simply wanted to take a closer look at life's seemingly ordinary moments. The book's value has been recognized by leading international publications and review outlets as well. Publishers Weekly notes that parents will appreciate Backman’s witty and heartwarming observations, while Booklist writes that readers will laugh out loud.

Fredrik Backman was born in Sweden in 1981. He studied theology before dropping out to work as a truck driver. He later gained global recognition for his moving, insightful stories.

The book was translated by Anush Muradyan, with Yeraz Projects as the main partner.