When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen a little book review

This story is shared from the perspective of Bo, an older man nearing the end of life, and how he is navigating through having to relinquish bodily control and agency. This chapter of his life is filled with caregivers, memories of his wife, who now lives in a memory care center, and his rocky relationship with his son. Thankfully, he has the companionship of his beloved dog, Sixten, as he relives memories, both fond and ones that carry regret.

This book is about love, life, and loss and the tears and laughter in between. Bo’s perspective is honest. No fluff.

When the Cranes Fly South is Lisa Ridzen’s debut as an author. The idea for this book was born out of the discovery of notes by her grandfather’s care team as he neared the end of life.

As a nurse whose career has been primarily caring for the older population and those at the end of life, I immediately recognized Bo in many of my patients. The hard exterior protecting a heart full of love for a wife who now only exists in his memories and words that he cannot seem to pull from his heart out of his mouth, to express how proud he is of his son. This story is simply told, making it an easy read though the words will tug at your heartstrings. The chapters are short and divided by days and notes written by the caregivers. It is truly a gem of a book.