January always feels like a pause, even when we mean for it to be a restart. We have so many good intentions, but real life seems to settle in as you move on from the holidays. Now that the holidays are over, the house is quieter, and suddenly there’s space to think. Sometimes it’s more space than we asked for, but using it intentionally and thinking of ways to set yourself up for good vibes in the new year. Everyone’s talking about goals and fresh starts, but honestly, January often feels more reflective than motivating. That’s why our first Mom Wife Wine Book Club pick of the year is My Friends by Fredrik Backman.
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This isn’t a quick read you can move on from and forget quickly. It makes you sit with your thoughts and remember who you were in the past and who you are today. It’s a story about friendship, connection, and the people who shape us long after we stop seeing them every day.
If you want to join me, sign up for the Mom Wife Wine Book Club email list to stay up to date.
Why This Book, Why January
My Friends explores the kinds of relationships that form us quietly, like long friendships, shared memories, and the people who knew us before life got complicated. It’s emotional without being overwhelming, thoughtful without being heavy, and perfect for a month when many of us are already looking inward. It’s also hilarious despite the sad parts.
It’s also a great choice if you’re getting back into reading after a break or don’t want a fast-paced or plot-heavy book. If you like stories that feel human, familiar, and a little tender, this is the one for you.
There’s no rush with this one, either. Read it slowly, in pieces, or with interruptions and half-finished thoughts. That’s kind of the point of this book club… to do what you can when you can.
You can buy the physical version of My Friends, or opt for an audiobook. Anything goes here.
How the Mom Wife Wine Book Club Works
If you’re new here (or need a reminder), this book club is intentionally low-pressure. There’s no required reading schedule, and you don’t even need to finish the book to participate. You don’t have to have perfect insights or “smart” thoughts, and reading quietly counts, too.
We’re here for connection, not completion. You can join the conversation by commenting on this post, replying to the book club emails, or just reading along on your own.
Book Club Questions for My Friends
If you do want something to think about while you read, here are a few gentle prompts to guide you, with no homework vibes attached:
- Backman writes about friendships that feel like lifelines. Have you ever had a friendship that helped you survive a hard season of life?
- Did any friendship in this book remind you of someone from your own life?
- Was there a moment that made you pause, reread, or sit quietly for a minute?
- Do you think forgiveness (especially self-forgiveness) is necessary for healing? Why or why not, based on how the story unfolded?
- How does this book make you feel: nostalgic, comforted, sad, hopeful?
- Loneliness shows up even when people aren’t technically alone. Which character’s loneliness stood out to you most?
- Are you someone who tends to hold onto friendships or let them evolve?
- Who felt like the emotional center of the story for you, and why? Was it because you related to them, worried about them, or saw someone you love in them?
Answer one or none, or save them for later. It’s totally up to you.
Looking Ahead: Mom Wife Wine Book Club
We’ll be reading My Friends throughout January, with February’s pick coming soon. The goal for this year isn’t to race through books but to create a small, consistent space for reflection, conversation, and shared stories.
If January is slow for you, that’s okay. If you’re late starting, that’s okay, too. You’re always welcome here, no matter when you join.
