"Beartown" is a novel by Fredrik Backman that explores the impact of a small town's obsession with ice hockey. The story revolves around the struggles of the community as they rally behind their junior hockey team, which represents their hopes and dreams. The narrative delves into themes of loyalty, ambition, and the consequences of violence, particularly when a crime disrupts the town's unity. As the characters navigate their relationships and the pressures of the sport, the novel highlights the complexities of human nature and the challenges faced by a close-knit community.