Book title unveiled for Wauwatosa's fourth all-city read

The Neighborhood Association Council of Wauwatosa has announced the title for the fourth annual Tosa's All-City Read.

The organization has selected "A Man Called Ove" by Swedish author Fredrik Backman based on suggestions from book clubs, local individuals, a panel of literature teachers, librarians and experts, according to a news release.

The annual event aims to have everyone in Wauwatosa "on the same page" and increase participation in neighborhood associations. The majority of All-City read events will take place in February 2017 with possible activities like book discussions, guest speakers, a writing contest, cultural events and a return of the popular Battle of the Bartenders competition.

Previous selections included "Rocket Boys" by Homer H. Hickam, "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline and "Peace Like a River" by Leif Enger.

The next selection was first published in Sweden in 2012 and became a No. 1 bestseller there, according to the release. In the book, a character named Ove is a curmudgeon with staunch principles, strict routines and a short fuse. Behind the cranky exterior is a story and sadness. The novel demonstrates how an unexpected friendship with new neighbors can change one cranky old man and a local residents' association to its foundation — themes that are likely to resonate with Wauwatosa readers, according to the release.

In conjunction with the adult novel, the Tosa's All-City Read committee will suggest a number of children's books with similar themes to "A Man Called Ove," so that families may read together and enjoy book discussions at home, according to the release.

For more information visit tosasallcityread.com.