Tom Hanks is tackling an adaptation of the international best-selling novel A Man Called Ove.

Hanks is attached to star in the project and will produce with his Playtone banner partner Gary Goetzman. Rita Wilson, Hanks’ wife and frequent producing partner, is also producing along with Fredrik Wikstrom Nicastro, it was announced Thursday. Nicastro hails from SF Studios, one of the companies behind the upcoming tennis drama Borg vs. McEnroe. He also executive produced the Swedish-language adaptation.

The 2012 book by Fredrik Backman centers on a cantankerous widower who seems to revel in his bitterness and loneliness even as his frequent attempts at suicide seem to be thwarted by bad timing and bad luck. His life, however, takes a turn toward the unexpected when a mixed-race couple with two young daughters move into the neighborhood, leading to a heartwarming and life-affirming friendship. [Source]