HAD a great day at the Hay Festival, the legendary literature and arts festival staged in Hay-on-Wye, where I got to meet Fredrik Backman, one of my all-time favourite authors.

The Swedish writer was on a rare visit to the UK, making just three appearances to talk about his life and career, struggles with depression and reflections on friendship.

His Hay Festival debut focused on his most recent novel, My Friends, published last year to worldwide acclaim – and, to the dismay of fans at the festival, possibly his last book.

During an interview on the festival’s tented Meadow Stage, he revealed that, although he planned to carry on writing – he simply can’t stop – he may not be minded to carry on publishing.

He wants to spend more time with his wife and children, so is not working on another novel, and does not know if there will be another. If so, My Friends is a fitting finalé.

The story of a last childhood summer that informs the adult years that come crashing in like an express train is perhaps the best of a career that includes the Beartown trilogy and A Man Called Ove.

After the interview, with writer and journalist Poorna Bell, Fredrik gave generously of his time to meet with readers, swap stories and sign books late into the Powys night. 

We chatted about the inspirational message that appears in the book: “To anyone who is young and wants to create something. Do it” which holds meaning for both of us.

I told him of the influential Welsh teacher who encouraged my own dream, helping set me off on a career as a journalist and writer when a (doubtless more lucrative) career in law seemed inevitable.

He told me how he almost gave up on My Friends halfway through writing the book but that the 12-word exhortation came to him and, once written on a piece of paper, encouraged him not to quit.

Then he signed my copy, added impromptu artwork and signed off “From a friend”. Thank you for many hours of enjoyment and inspiration over the years,  Fredrik. I hope there’s more to come but understand if not.

Happy trails, until we meet again.