‘Swanfall manages to capture the kind of magic of a great winter walk. As soon as you’re finished, you’ll want to put on your wellingtons and stomp outside in search of the wild places, where all you can hear are honking geese, winter waders, and the sound of wind in the reeds. Hot chocolates all round.’ The Times on Swanfall

‘A beautiful story to teach children why nature must be protected … at the heart of the story is something more universal: a child's transformative bond with the natural world ... It’s that elusive magic that she captures so cleverly…’ The Telegraph on Swanfall

‘An utterly captivating fantasy for ages 8 and above.’ The Guardian on Swanfall

A thrilling new adventure story inspired by Irish folklore from Sophie Kirtley, author of The Wild Way Home. Perfect for fans of Sophie Anderson's The House with Chicken Legs, Amy Wilson's A Girl Called Owl, and Aisha Bushby's A Pocketful of Stars.

Pip lives with Mum in their secluded cottage on the wetlands. Pip struggles to feel like he fits in at school. But at home, amidst nature, he truly feels he can be himself.

Just like every winter, Pip is waiting for the swanfall – when the flock of majestic Arctic swans return from Siberia on their annual migration. He recognizes each swan by their unique markings, and he loves to help Mum record the flock as they soar, shining through the sky, to their home. But this December, Pip's favorite three swans haven’t appeared. Instead, Pip notices strange footprints in the snow, whispers on the wind, and the sense that someone is watching him.

Something mysterious is happening, and the adventure to uncover the truth leads Pip to follow clues to an ancient curse that he had always believed was just a fairy tale…

‘A chilling winter's tale, sparkling with the magic of friendship, song, and arctic swans.’ Sarah Ann Juckes, author of The Night Animals

‘Swanfall is perfect for anyone aged 8+ who enjoys books about nature, friendship, magic – or simply great stories!’ Kirsty Applebaum, author of The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good on Swanfall

‘A beautiful, thrilling, timeless story - I loved it.’ Lucy Strange, author of The Secret of Nightingale Wood on Swanfall

‘A beautiful, atmospheric story full of adventure and wonder.’ Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear on Swanfall

‘Sophie Kirtley's beautifully written new novel is an adventure-filled tale of friendship and belonging, wrapped up in a centuries-old mystery. This magical, wintry read is perfect for curling up with on a chilly day. I adored it!’ Olivia Wakeford, author of My Dog on Swanfall

‘…the wonder of the natural world, Irish folklore, and anxieties about friendship are all woven into an adventure infused with Kirtley's signature spooky atmosphere.’ The Irish Examiner on Swanfall

‘This is a book that will excite young nature lovers and those who enjoy strong character-driven stories.’ The Big Issue on Swanfall

*Swanfall was The Times Children's Book of the Week during the week of 15/12/2025

Pages: 320, Year of Publication: 2023, Dimensions: 12.8x12.8cm