I have always enjoyed Fannie Flagg books. Something to Look Forward To is a series of vignettes about life that cover multiple times, multiple places, and many different people. Some of the stories are interrelated but most are not. While I still felt privileged to meet some of these quirky characters and to experience Ms. Flagg’s down-home southern humor, I felt very disappointed by this book. To me, it just wasn’t up to the usual standards that Ms. Flagg has given us in the past. That being said I still remain a loyal Fannie Flagg fan and am anxiously awaiting her next release.

Actually really, really loved this one. I am a fan of Fanny Flagg’s books and this one was a really beautiful one. I’ll definitely be recommending it - and probably be buying a copy for on my shelf. ❤️

Fannie Flagg does it again. I’ve been reading her books since the '80s, and every time I pick up one of her stories, I feel like I’m coming home. Something to Look Forward To is no exception. It’s warm, heartfelt, witty, and exactly what I needed in a world that often feels upside down.

This collection of interconnected stories weaves through small towns and big cities, introducing a cast of unforgettable characters who are all navigating life’s curveballs. From a great-grandmother in Kansas trying to bridge the generational divide, to a woman in New York boldly reclaiming her independence, to a quirky FBI agent observing human nature in the most charming way—each vignette reflects Flagg’s trademark humor, compassion, and insight.

The stories are about love and loss, resilience and reinvention, but most of all, they’re about hope. Even when life throws its hardest punches, Flagg’s characters find ways to keep going—sometimes with tears, sometimes with laughter, and often with both.

This book feels especially timely. In an era filled with uncertainty, Fannie Flagg reminds us there’s still joy to be found, kindness to be shared, and reasons—big or small—to keep looking forward. I highly recommend this to anyone in need of a literary hug and a good, genuine laugh.

If you loved Fried Green Tomatoes, you’ll feel right at home here.

omething to Look Forward To by Fannie Flagg, A collection unique, quirky, down to earth, common sense stories of life lessons gently learned. Always can depend on Ms Flagg to give a different views on life from Velma's small town home, to Bill Frawley's journey and even a scary microscopic world in a science class. A shout out to Mr Tubbs who knows a good guy when he appears. Always a pleasure to read Ms Flagg books

Thank you to Ms Flagg, Random House and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.

Any Fannie Flagg book is going to entertain you, make you laugh out loud, and maybe even shed a tear or two. Her newest collection of short stories is not exception.
I devoured SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO in one sitting. The stories are charming, filled with hope and make you wonder if she is writing about you instead of fictional characters.
Two stand out stories for me were surprising because one mentioned my hometown, and the other my alma mater. It was as if Flagg knew me.
Told with wit, charm, pathos, and drama, all these stand alone stories are simply wonderful, with one continuous thread of humanity woven into each of them.
Brava. 4.5 stars from me. Thankyou Netgalley and Ms Flagg for a sneak peek!

Fannie Flagg's homespun tales are filled with humor, irony and common sense while plumbing the depths of human emotions and offering up conclusions that make the reader laugh out loud or cry in sorrow. As I read the stories I thought for awhile that they grew in seriousness and the book might come to a weighty close. But Flagg deftly alternates so that readers will arrive at some obvious conclusions about their fellow human beings, with satisfaction and an understanding of the author's message to us all. These are trying times, filled with concerns and worries about the world and how to preserve love, vanquish misunderstanding and hatred. Fannie Flagg's book of wonderful stories bolster hope and faith in our fellow travelers.

This is a series of vignettes of disperate people. Quirky? Yes, but not particularly engaging. I've always enjoyed Fannie Flagg's books, but this one left me cold.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is one of those books that feels like a warm hug—a comforting visit with an old friend. Fans of Fannie Flagg will feel right at home with her trademark wit, heart, and humor in this delightful collection of interconnected stories.

Each character is charming in their own quirky way, from Velma trying to understand her great-grandchild’s pronouns, to a group of small-town breakfast regulars taking a stand to protect their café. And let’s not forget the wonderfully odd alien observer, Special Agent Frawley, who offers an outside perspective on the mess and magic of being human.

While I personally would’ve loved to spend more time in some of these stories, that’s just because they were so enjoyable—I didn’t want to leave. Flagg’s sharp observations and big-hearted storytelling make this a truly uplifting read.

A huge thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and of course, Fannie Flagg for the ARC. I couldn’t put this one down!

4.5 stars
I have loved Ms. Flagg's characters lo these many years, from Daisy Faye to Idgie, to neighbor Dorothy and Aunt Elner. I didn't realize I'd be reading short stories rife with new people I wish I could meet. Ms. Flagg's insightful understanding of human foibles and both the ordinary and confounding issues that we all face, gave me decided pleasure and comfort; comfort in the knowledge that I'm not the only one who puzzles about the little things as much as the big ones that unite us in the strange and wondrous journey that is life.

Fannie Flagg has been one of my favorite writers since I read Fried Green Tomatoes… many years ago. I was not expecting the format Ms. Flagg used, but it was perfect for her thought-provoking short takes on humans and the human condition. Very thought-provoking and well worth reading!

Another five star read from Fannie Flagg. I loved Something to Look Forward To. It’s out this summer and you won’t want to miss it.