Inspired by notes from her grandfather's caregivers, Swedish author Lisa Ridzén's debut novel is a realistic, poignant retrospective on the last months of a life. When the Cranes Fly South is 89-year-old Bo's first-person meditation during his final summer, from May through October. His carers' brief, perfunctory reports introduce each passage and contrast with Bo's vivid memories and hopes for his last days.
As his body grows weary, Bo is secure in the home he grew up in and shared with his beloved Fredrika for almost 60 years until he reluctantly agreed with their son, Hans, to move her to a home for people with dementia. His narration of richly detailed recollections is addressed to her. His reliable comfort is his faithful elkhound, Sixten, who lies on the daybed with Bo, making few demands. But Hans has determined Bo can't care for the dog and plans to re-home him. The heartbreaking possibility of losing Sixten exacerbates the rocky relationship between Bo and Hans, angering Bo but also reminding him of "the deal I made with myself... that I don't want there to be any hard feelings between us at the end." Bo recalls his tyrannical father and gentle mother, musing, "I regret never thanking her for being her." While a gentleman to his kind caregivers, Bo generally seems curmudgeonly and resentful, but his thoughts belie this gruffness. When the Cranes Fly South meditates on a long life lived with care, a deep appreciation for natural surroundings, and a commitment to leaving a legacy of love. --Cheryl McKeon, Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza, Albany, N.Y.