Newmag Presents Two New Bestsellers on the “Good Morning” Program (Video)

Britt-Marie Was Here: A Story of Loneliness, Change, and Second Chances

The translator of the book, Ashkhen Bakhchinyan, believes the key to Backman’s success lies in how authentically he portrays human life and relationships.

“Especially today, when we stand between tradition and modernity, it’s difficult for the older generation to adapt, and surprising for the younger generation to understand how things once were. Backman’s characters reflect this journey, resisting at first, but ultimately finding peace.”

She adds that Backman’s works explore connections between people of different backgrounds and generations, encouraging empathy and reconciliation.

“In developed societies like Sweden, where Backman is from, loneliness is growing. People no longer need to communicate because technology fills that gap. But Backman shows us how important real human connection is.”

Britt-Marie Was Here is the third book released through Newmag’s partnership with Bookinist, the general partner of the novel. Bookinist director Khachik Vardanyan praised the emotional depth and moral values that run through Backman’s work.

“Backman’s books are warm and deeply human. They remind us that people everywhere, regardless of nationality or background, share common values. Britt-Marie, after decades of loyalty and self-sacrifice, finds herself again. Her story resonates with all of us.”

One of Us Is Back: The Thrilling Conclusion to Karen McManus’ Detective Trilogy

The final volume of Karen McManus’ bestselling trilogy, One of Us Is Back, was also featured. The Armenian edition is published with the support of Voskan Yerevantsi Printing House, the general partner of the book.

Margarit Sargsyan, editor of the Armenian edition and a teacher by profession, believes that the book's combination of teen drama, mystery, and suspense makes it incredibly compelling.

“The plot pulls you in. Just when you think it’s over, the story takes another turn. It’s engaging from start to finish.”

According to Astghik Atabekyan, translator of the trilogy, the book does more than just tell a thrilling story, it offers important insights into adolescence and how society perceives teenagers.

“The book makes us reflect on how closely we listen to young people. It’s a detective novel, yes, but also layered and thought-provoking, especially for teenagers and parents alike.”

She emphasized that understanding teenage behavior often begins by remembering our own youth:

“Teenage maximalism is natural. To understand it, we must recall what it felt like to be young ourselves. One of the book’s subtle messages is about the digital world, how chats, forums, and online spaces can be either empowering or dangerous, depending on how they’re managed.”

Newmag continues its mission of bringing global literature to Armenian readers, selecting books that resonate deeply across generations - with compelling characters, gripping plots, and powerful messages about life, identity, and connection.