Explore the work of two of Sweden’s most acclaimed contemporary writers, Lisa Ridzén and Agnes Lidbeck, as they discuss their powerful debut novels and the shared themes of care, memory, and emotional resilience.

In When the Cranes Fly South (translated by Alice Menzies), international bestseller and Swedish Book of the Year winner Lisa Ridzén offers a moving and quietly devastating portrait of ageing and autonomy. As Bo faces the end of his life, the looming loss of his dog and fractured relationship with his son trigger a tender reflection on love, regret, and fatherhood.

“The kind of book you give to someone when you’re really trying to say, “I’ve been thinking about you” but don’t know how.” – Fredrik Backman, author of A Man Called Ove

In Supporting Act (translated by Nichola Smalley), Agnes Lidbeck explores female identity with razor-sharp precision. As Anna devotes herself to motherhood and caregiving, she loses sight of her own desires – until an affair challenges the roles she’s accepted and forces her to confront her true self. Agnes Lidbeck is one of Sweden’s most prominent and versatile contemporary writers.

Supported by the Swedish Arts Council in collaboration with the Embassy of Sweden, UK, as part of the Stories From Sweden programme.

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