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A review by kba76
When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzén
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Bo still lives alone. His team of carers visit him daily to support him with the daily tasks he often forgets. At the age of 89, Bo knows he is approaching the end of his life but with his beloved elkhound Sixten at his side he is determined to maintain his independence as long as he can.
We follow Bo through his days, learning about his child Hans and beloved granddaughter. We learn about his wife and her gradual decline as she lives with the effects of dementia. Bo shares with us details of his past and his own childhood. And through the little notes left by his carers we learn just how difficult things are for Bo.
This book was emotional. It’s hard not to feel for Bo as he struggles to accept the limitations placed on his body by his ageing. We only see his perspective so it’s easy to see his son as callous for wanting to place his dog with a family who can better cater to his needs.
As the book draws to its inevitable ending I could t help but feel this is such an important book for getting people to think about how we manage our ageing. Breaking down some of the stigma associated with caring for elderly relatives might result in a more compassionate approach. While it felt rather depressing, there was a stoic acceptance of the inevitable that I felt left Bo with the semblance of autonomy he craved as he grew less capable.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review this.
We follow Bo through his days, learning about his child Hans and beloved granddaughter. We learn about his wife and her gradual decline as she lives with the effects of dementia. Bo shares with us details of his past and his own childhood. And through the little notes left by his carers we learn just how difficult things are for Bo.
This book was emotional. It’s hard not to feel for Bo as he struggles to accept the limitations placed on his body by his ageing. We only see his perspective so it’s easy to see his son as callous for wanting to place his dog with a family who can better cater to his needs.
As the book draws to its inevitable ending I could t help but feel this is such an important book for getting people to think about how we manage our ageing. Breaking down some of the stigma associated with caring for elderly relatives might result in a more compassionate approach. While it felt rather depressing, there was a stoic acceptance of the inevitable that I felt left Bo with the semblance of autonomy he craved as he grew less capable.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review this.