Backman has such a talent for creating quirky, endearing, frustrating characters.  When I was first introduced to Britt-Marie in My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She's Sorry, I didn't like her at all, which I understand was quite intentional.  She was touchy, passive-aggressive and seemed to only exist to make other people uncomfortable.  Of course, there was a reason she became the type of person she was.  Understanding what went into shaping her personality and what factors were driving her behaviors made clear that her quirks were coping mechanisms.  I may not have liked her better, but I didn't judge as harshly.

Jumping into the car and getting out of Dodge, so to speak, was the one of the bravest acts she could have performed.  I wanted to know where she went and what she did.  Thankfully, Backman must have wanted the same!  Britt-Marie Was Here continued her journey and allowed me to get to know her better.  I loved the story, I loved the characters, I loved the "town."  And, at the end of the book, I loved Britt-Marie.  Quite an accomplishment!  I highly recommend this book.  It stands alone, but works so well as a companion to My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She's Sorry, you should really read them both!