In a hilarious short story from New York Times bestselling author Fredrik Backman, "The Answer Is No" presents the absurdities of modern life through the eyes of Lucas, a man who takes great comfort in his solitary routine. Lucas believes that the ideal evening involves just three things: indulging in video games, sipping on wine, and savoring pad thai—while being alone. Peanuts? Absolutely essential! But interactions with other people? Not so much. Lucas is entirely content to keep his life uncomplicated and solo.
However, his simplistic world is turned upside down when the apartment board, a frustrating trio of self-appointed authority figures, shows up at his door without warning. They are on a mission to confront him about a frying pan that mysteriously appeared next to the recycling area the previous night. Rather than opting for a simple cleanup, they expect Lucas to help identify the culprit. What ensues is a ridiculous and uproarious chain of events that leads to one man’s attempt to maintain his solitude amidst the chaos imposed by others.
As Backman weaves together this laugh-out-loud narrative, he introduces a cast of wonderfully drawn characters and strikes a chord with anyone who has ever been overwhelmed by social obligations or absurd circumstances. With a beautifully crafted sense of humor and a relatable storyline, "The Answer Is No" captures the essence of seeking peace and solitude in a world that often pushes back. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Backman’s work or new to his charming style, this short story will undoubtedly leave you chuckling and relating to the trials of one man’s quest for tranquility.
