My Friends

A Novel

By: Fredrik Backman

Narrated by: Marin Ireland

#1 New York Times bestselling author Fredrik Backman returns with an unforgettably funny, deeply moving tale of four teenagers whose friendship creates a bond so powerful that it changes a complete stranger’s life twenty-five years later.

Most people don’t even notice them—three tiny figures sitting at the end of a long pier in the corner of one of the most famous paintings in the world. Most people think it’s just a depiction of the sea. But Louisa, an aspiring artist herself, knows otherwise, and she is determined to find out the story of these three enigmatic figures.

Twenty-five years earlier, in a distant seaside town, a group of teenagers find refuge from their bruising home lives by spending long summer days on an abandoned pier, telling silly jokes, sharing secrets, and committing small acts of rebellion. These lost souls find in each other a reason to get up each morning, a reason to dream, a reason to love.

Out of that summer emerges a transcendent work of art, a painting that will unexpectedly be placed into eighteen-year-old Louisa’s care. She embarks on a surprise-filled cross-country journey to learn how the painting came to be and to decide what to do with it. The closer she gets to the painting’s birthplace, the more nervous she becomes about what she’ll find. Louisa is proof that happy endings don’t always take the form we expect in this stunning testament to the transformative, timeless power of friendship and art.

©2025 Fredrik Backman (P)2025 Simon & Schuster Audio

Critic reviews

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER A Most Anticipated Book of 2025: Goodreads • USA TODAY • Marie Claire • BookPage • Literary Lifestyle • Book Riot • Sunset Magazine • Totally Booked with Zibby Owens

Not to my taste.

I thought “A Man Called Ove” was one of the best books I’ve read. I enjoyed the Beartown series. “My Friends” I thought was clichéd & too long & repetitive. I kept thinking “Steven King did this better” & “this seems like ‘women’s fiction’” which usually I don’t enjoy, and “this is the longest short story ever”

The narrator was superb.

Overall sentimentality sometimes interrupted by moments of overwhelming beauty

Self-pity spoiled what could have been more of those moments. I read to the end savoring what I could. My disappointment did not dim my view of Backman as a brilliant writer.

One of the best books ever

I had forgotten about this author after thoroughly enjoying A Man Called Ove — and I’m so glad I rediscovered him. The character interactions, vivid personalities, and sharp humor in this book are outstanding. It’s a must-read! If you’re a creative soul — or simply human — this story will resonate deeply.
The narrator is one of the best too.

Extraordinary read

This book is one of those that will stay with the listener for a long, long time. It is a beautifully written book, perfectly narrated. If you only listen to one book this summer…this year…make it this one!

Fredrik Backman is a brilliant storyteller,

He has such a keen grasp of human nature and relationships, and he knows how to write about them like very few other authors. His characters live ordinary, often unfortunate lives, yet in his hands they become anything but ordinary. He makes you laugh out loud, and in the next moment weep at the poignancy of an exchange between characters. The only difficulty with his books is the length of time you have to wait till the next one comes out. This was a beautiful, if unconventional, story of adolescent friendship that brings out the best in each of them, that helps each survive difficult circumstances, and draws others like-minded into their circle.

Great storytelling

Finished it as fast as I could. Fabulous storytelling, rich characters, fun and dynamic plot. Super creative big net with room for everyone to let their imaginations run wild.

This could be my favorite of all the Bachman stories.

This story pulled me in grabbed hold of my heart, made me laugh and made me cry. I will miss these characters, but I will carry them with me.

We all have stories …

This author never disappoints 🙌🏼 Couldn’t wait for the release of this new book by a favorite author.

Brilliant

Excellent as all Backman is. Marin Ireland is exceptional. I’m only sorry I finished this book and wish it would go on forever.

Best yet!

This is another amazing story from a wonderful writer! I laughed and cried and held my breath! Like Louisa, I was nervous about how the story would end! Marin Ireland is always a fantastic narrator. She adds to an already rich and powerful story. Highly recommend!