When the Cranes Fly South

Discover When the Cranes Fly South, the profoundly moving and life-affirming novel by Lisa Ridzén, published by Penguin. This story explores the multitude of stories contained within a life and the significant moments for which we often lack words. It has been recognized as a phenomenal word-of-mouth bestseller and was shortlisted for the Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize.

The narrative centers on Bo, an elderly man living a quiet existence in a small rural village in northern Sweden. His routine includes visits from his care team, phone calls with his best friend, and time with his beloved dog, Sixten. When his son insists the dog must be taken away, the threat stirs up powerful emotions, compelling Bo to resist and find his voice, especially as he seeks to mend his relationship with his son before his time runs out.

• A deeply moving contemporary fiction novel exploring themes of family, relationships, and finding peace.
• From author Lisa Ridzén, with translation by Alice Menzies.
• Features a compelling story of an elderly man fighting to keep his companion, Sixten.
• Ranked highly in Disability Fiction (#1) and Literary Fiction (#35).

• Brand: Penguin
• Author: Lisa Ridzén
• Binding: paperback
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Language: English (Original content also includes Swedish)
• Print Length: 320 pages
• Publication Date: January 1, 2026
• ISBN-10: 1804995800
• ISBN-13: 978-1804995808
• Dimensions: 128 x 198 x 22mm
• Weight: 206g

This novel offers readers a chance to connect deeply with Bo's journey of emotional reckoning, making it a story that will resonate with anyone who has navigated complex family dynamics and the effort to truly live and love.