Swanfall: The Times Children's Book of the Week*

‘Swanfall manages to capture the kind of magic of a great winter walk. As Soon as you’re finished, you’ll want to pull on your wellies 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 defended … 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 absorbing 8+ fantasy.’ 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 isolated cottage on the wetlands. Pip struggles to feel like he fits in at school. But at home, amongst 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 knows every 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 favourite 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 afoot, and the adventure to discover the truth leads Pip to follow clues to an ancient curse that he had always believed was simply a fairytale …

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

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

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

‘A beautiful, atmospheric story packed 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, all 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 around friendship are all wrapped up in 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 a strong character-driven story.’ The Big Issue on Swanfall

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