Backman has a way with writing engaging stories about curmudgeons. Lucas is almost like a 30-year old Ove but, being a short story, we don’t get any backstory as to why he’d rather be alone, which makes him a little less likeable. 

This story really just showcases how bureaucratic systems can get in the way of common sense, to which Lucas is the perfect foil. 

I found it a bit heavy handed in the messaging Backman shoved in - the grass isn’t always greener; you don’t know what you’ve got til it’s gone; first impressions aren’t always accurate; you are the author of your own story. One (or two) too many, that made this just an okayish read for me.