"The hundred year old man who climbed out of the window & disappeared" by Swedish writer Jonas Jonasson . This book has won many awards and has sold more than 3 million copies. Of all the books I have read so far, this one probably has the longest title. I read a book with Swedish background after a long time, after Millennium Trilogy.
Allan Karlsson, a hundred year old man, decides to run away from an old age home on his hundredth birthday. Once out he acquires a suitcase that happens to be full of cash.
His journey begins. The quirky nature of old man, his willingness to enjoy life rekindled and the fact that he does not mind a few things that do not adhere exactly to the law make him an interesting specimen. He is just wired differently. On his way he meets and/or collects interesting people and animals, unaware that the police are only one step behind them.
The story takes you from Sweden to all over the world. Story toggles between Allan's past and present. Character of Allan, an explosives expert, is a curious one. He has met a number of world leaders and had been on first name basis with them but moves on playing important role in events, that have shaped the history of world, on his way. The story is full of incredible tales, all involving Allan and his role in atom bomb, communist revolution, French unrest, star wars etc. I liked the narration of his past more than present.
Where does he go? Who does he meet? Who does he save? Why is he arrested? How does he escape? Who does he spy for? What does he want? Does he get what he was looking for?
Although the characters in this book are rogues, thieves, world leaders, common folks and law breakers; readers love them nevertheless. Credit goes to author's writing style which is very different from traditional writers. It's difficult to describe it in words but it's very refreshing. He creates humor without appearing to be taking efforts for it. I think this is the key to the success of the book. I could not help smiling on many occasions and laughing out aloud a eee times.
In short it is a crazy, senselessly hilarious, satirical black comedy. You are expected to read it and enjoy it without thinking much. And that's exactly what you do.
Don't miss this. Highly recommended. A must read.
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