Lisa Ridzén

The Cranes Fly South (När tranorna flyger söderut)

Sweden

Embassy of Sweden Prague

BOOK

LISA RIDZÉN kniha Jeřábi táhnou na jih

Boo Andersson’s life is now mostly reduced to regular visits from care services, his loyal dog, and a preserving jar sealed with a scarf still scented by his beloved late wife. But his rheumatic hands can no longer open the lid. Time is running out, and Boo wants to repair his cold relationship with his son. But the son wants to take away the last joy in Boo’s life—his dog Sixten. The fear of losing his only companion stirs a storm of emotions, prompting Boo to reflect on his life, his fatherhood, and the ways he expressed love. A tender story about the desire to reclaim control over one’s destiny.

Published by Host, 2025

AUTHOR

Lisa Ridzen © Gabriel Lijevall

© Gabriel Lijevall

Lisa Ridzén (*1988) studied sociology and creative writing. She lives in a small village near Östersund, Sweden. Her debut novel The Cranes Fly South (2024), named Swedish Book of the Year, was inspired by records kept by a care worker during her grandfather’s final years.

TRANSLATION

Linda Kaprová