When the Cranes Fly South
When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzén, published by Transworld Publishers Limited on May 15, 2025, is a literary work that delves into the complexities of family life and personal autonomy. The story follows Bo, an elderly man living in a small rural village in northern Sweden, as he navigates his quiet existence filled with memories, friendships, and the companionship of his dog, Sixten. As Bo’s son insists on taking the dog away, the narrative explores Bo’s emotional journey and his desire to mend their strained relationship.
This edition presents a profound exploration of themes such as marriage, divorce, and the challenges of aging, infused with elements of humor and black humor. Readers will find a rich tapestry of experiences as Bo confronts the impending changes in his life and strives to assert his independence. With 320 pages, this novel invites reflection on the universal aspects of love, care, and the stories that shape our lives.
Official synopsis Publisher
DISCOVER THE No.1 INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER
SHORTLISTED FOR THE WATERSTONES DEBUT FICTION PRIZE
WINNER OF THE SWEDISH BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD
‘One of those “you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll want to buy twenty copies and give them to everyone you love” books’ New Yorker
‘A novel anyone will take to heart…a simple yet effective meditation on mortality, love and care’ Patrick Gale, Guardian
‘The kind of book you give to someone when you’re really trying to say “I’ve been thinking about you” but don’t know how.‘ Fredrik Backman, bestselling author of A Man Called Ove
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Bo is determined to live his own life in his own way. But his son has other ideas…
Bo lives a quiet existence in his small rural village in the north of Sweden. He is elderly and his days are punctuated by visits from his care team and his son.
Fortunately, he still has his rich memories, phone calls with his best friend Ture, and his beloved dog Sixten for company.
Only now his son is insisting the dog must be taken away. The very same son that Bo is wanting to mend his relationship with before his time is up. The threat of losing Sixten stirs up a whirlwind of emotions and makes Bo determined to resist and find his voice.
When the Cranes Fly South is a profoundly moving and life-affirming novel about one man’s desire to preserve his autonomy, the multitude of stories contained within a life, and the big things for which we have no words.
‘A magical reading experience; among the most moving things I’ve ever read’ No.1 internationally bestselling author Camilla Läckberg
‘A book that will echo in your soul’ Garth Stein, bestselling author of The Art of Racing in the Rain
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Readers love When the Cranes Fly South:
‘What makes this novel truly remarkable is the way it explores universal themes...readers will find themselves deeply connected to [Bo’s] journey of emotional reckoning’
‘It is impossible not to be moved by this book’
‘A must read of 2025′
‘This is not just a story about a man and his dog; it’s a story of family, of relationships tested by time and distance, and the effort to find peace within the limits of one’s existence‘
‘Wow, what a masterpiece, I am speechless and have a new all-time favourite book!‘
‘A story that will connect to all of us in some way’
‘Not only touches the heart but also invites deep reflection on what it means to truly live and love‘
‘So incredibly emotional, poignant, touching, and sad. But also very warm’
‘A book that will stay with you for a long time‘
‘Such a beautiful description of people and life and relationships’
‘A book about life, about generations, about being… you‘
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