My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of mental illness, addiction, death, and substance use.

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. How did you feel about the book's mix of fantasy and fairytale?

2. If you have read any other of Backman’s works (e.g., A Man Called Ove, Anxious People, etc.), how does this book exemplify his signature style, in particular in how he weaves together people in a community?

3. Were you as surprised as Elsa to discover that many of the characters were not the people they were judged to be at the beginning of the story?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Reflect on Elsa’s grandmother’s use of stories to teach lessons. Is there a loved one who has stayed with you or shaped your perspective somehow? Overall, did Elsa’s bond with her grandmother, which drives the storyline, resonate emotionally with you?

2. Books and stories bring comfort to Elsa throughout her life. Have books and storytelling been crucial to your own journey or provided an escape during a difficult time?