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Where the Birds Call Her Name
Broome 2023: When Saskia’s free-spirited mother leaves her a caravan in her will, it doesn’t make sense. Saskia is a schoolteacher, tied to plans and schedules, even if they are beginning to feel restrictive. Then she finds clues in the van about her mother’s mysterious past, setting her on a journey to Tasmania with her young daughter Anouk, who shares her late grandmother’s fascination with birds.
In 1968, teenager Greta De Winter seeks solace in the Stanley wetlands, a swamp that attracts all manner of wildlife. Her father is the local councillor and her mother a taxidermist, working to create bird dioramas for the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. But while the De Winter household seems harmless from the outside, a dark secret hides within.
When Saskia and Anouk arrive in Stanley, they search for the missing pieces to the puzzle of Greta’s tragic childhood. In the process of uncovering her family history, Saskia realises that her mother’s final act might also enable her to rediscover who she really is, and what she is truly capable of.
Set in the breathtaking landscape of Tasmania’s majestic north-west, this is a moving and highly evocative novel of family bonds and betrayals, by the bestselling author of The Secrets of the Huon Wren.
In 1968, teenager Greta De Winter seeks solace in the Stanley wetlands, a swamp that attracts all manner of wildlife. Her father is the local councillor and her mother a taxidermist, working to create bird dioramas for the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. But while the De Winter household seems harmless from the outside, a dark secret hides within.
When Saskia and Anouk arrive in Stanley, they search for the missing pieces to the puzzle of Greta’s tragic childhood. In the process of uncovering her family history, Saskia realises that her mother’s final act might also enable her to rediscover who she really is, and what she is truly capable of.
Set in the breathtaking landscape of Tasmania’s majestic north-west, this is a moving and highly evocative novel of family bonds and betrayals, by the bestselling author of The Secrets of the Huon Wren.
400 pages, Paperback
First published March 4, 2025
40 people are currently reading
650 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
March 4, 2025
Broome 2023: Saskia Honeyman is a schoolteacher, married to Dane a busy real-estate agent and they have a daughter. When her mother leaves her a caravan in her will she’s confused and of course wise Kiki noticed what Saskia didn’t, she's burnt out, juggling too many things and has lost her way. Saskia doesn’t know a lot about her mother’s past, she finds some clues in the van, and decides to travel to Tasmania with her daughter Anouk and she's delighted to go on an adventure and explore Australia.
In 1968: Greta De Winter is a teenager and she seeks solace in the Stanley wetlands and swamp that attracts all manner of wildlife and she’s fascinated by birds. Her father is the charming two faced local councillor and her mother a talented taxidermist, working to create bird dioramas for the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. While the De Winter household looks normal from the outside, it’s not and Dirk is controlling and Fay tries to hide this from Greta and fails.
Saskia and Anouk arrive in Stanley, they are here to find out why did Kiki leave and change her first name and she never mentioned where she was from and will anyone remember her?
I received a copy of Where the Birds Call Her Name by Claire van Ryn from NetGalley and Penguin Random House Australia in exchange for an honest review. Parts of the dual timeline narrative is set in the real town of Stanley on the north-west of the stunning island, and mentions The Nut and The Green Hills, old Convict Barracks and Greta’s refuge the swamp and wetlands.
As with her previous novel The Secrets of the Huon Wren, the author weaves a tale rich with deceptions of nature and wildlife, and each chapter of her book starts with information about Tasmanian birds, which are a symbol of power, strength and freedom and the connection they have to Fay, Greta and Anouk.
A story about family, bonds, secrets, self-discovery, being one with the dirt beneath your feet and the joy it brings and the lessons we learn from this, and enjoying and finding peace and closure and written in an imaginative, lyrical and melodic way, you will be engrossed from the first page, poetic and beautiful and five stars from me.
“A mother’s love is in your veins” and this is my favourite quote from the book and it’s so true and a must read.
In 1968: Greta De Winter is a teenager and she seeks solace in the Stanley wetlands and swamp that attracts all manner of wildlife and she’s fascinated by birds. Her father is the charming two faced local councillor and her mother a talented taxidermist, working to create bird dioramas for the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. While the De Winter household looks normal from the outside, it’s not and Dirk is controlling and Fay tries to hide this from Greta and fails.
Saskia and Anouk arrive in Stanley, they are here to find out why did Kiki leave and change her first name and she never mentioned where she was from and will anyone remember her?
I received a copy of Where the Birds Call Her Name by Claire van Ryn from NetGalley and Penguin Random House Australia in exchange for an honest review. Parts of the dual timeline narrative is set in the real town of Stanley on the north-west of the stunning island, and mentions The Nut and The Green Hills, old Convict Barracks and Greta’s refuge the swamp and wetlands.
As with her previous novel The Secrets of the Huon Wren, the author weaves a tale rich with deceptions of nature and wildlife, and each chapter of her book starts with information about Tasmanian birds, which are a symbol of power, strength and freedom and the connection they have to Fay, Greta and Anouk.
A story about family, bonds, secrets, self-discovery, being one with the dirt beneath your feet and the joy it brings and the lessons we learn from this, and enjoying and finding peace and closure and written in an imaginative, lyrical and melodic way, you will be engrossed from the first page, poetic and beautiful and five stars from me.
“A mother’s love is in your veins” and this is my favourite quote from the book and it’s so true and a must read.
December 11, 2024
A sublime novel about women taking flight across generations and landscapes to find their true selves. It's gorgeously written; I adore a novel that winds fact and fiction so seamlessly, and in this one I loved the descriptions of Australia's rich birdlife, which serve as both metaphor and backdrop to the story. With that stunning cover, this is a book that's as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside.
I was given a copy of the book by the publisher.
I was given a copy of the book by the publisher.
March 1, 2025
3.5★
Saskia is puzzled by the inheritance left by her mother Kiki - a caravan. Kiki had loved the caravan for sure, but Saskia was a very different person to her bohemian, bird-loving mother. Poor Saskia didn't even have anywhere to park the thing! But as she continued to tidy up her mother's affairs, she made two key discoveries; a journal and a ticket booked on the ferry to Tasmania in a few months time. Surprising herself as much as anyone else, Saskia found herself arranging to take long service leave from her teaching position in Broome and heading off in the caravan with her 9yo daughter Anouk. Destination: Stanley, north western Tasmania.
At face value, this book ticked all of my favourite boxes. I loved the setting and the family secrets. But somehow, despite being a little longer than average, I just couldn't find the connection that I wanted with the main characters. I also wasn't keen on the animal cruelty and gaslighting aspects of the plot. However, I absolutely loved the way it ended, which is why I'm giving it an extra half star.
Well worth a read, especially for bird-lovers.
With thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House Australia for a digital ARC to read and review.
Saskia is puzzled by the inheritance left by her mother Kiki - a caravan. Kiki had loved the caravan for sure, but Saskia was a very different person to her bohemian, bird-loving mother. Poor Saskia didn't even have anywhere to park the thing! But as she continued to tidy up her mother's affairs, she made two key discoveries; a journal and a ticket booked on the ferry to Tasmania in a few months time. Surprising herself as much as anyone else, Saskia found herself arranging to take long service leave from her teaching position in Broome and heading off in the caravan with her 9yo daughter Anouk. Destination: Stanley, north western Tasmania.
At face value, this book ticked all of my favourite boxes. I loved the setting and the family secrets. But somehow, despite being a little longer than average, I just couldn't find the connection that I wanted with the main characters. I also wasn't keen on the animal cruelty and gaslighting aspects of the plot. However, I absolutely loved the way it ended, which is why I'm giving it an extra half star.
Well worth a read, especially for bird-lovers.
With thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House Australia for a digital ARC to read and review.
April 28, 2025
This is a book about finding your identity. There was so much I loved about this book. The ending especially. I loved how it all came together. So many emotions involved. The bird references and descriptions - I live in a rural area and I found that interesting. Claires writing style- she writes in such a lyrical way. It was beautiful.
This book has/is :
* inheritance
* timeline 1968-2023
* secrets
* emotional
* betrayal
* mother/daughter relationships.
Look forward to reading more from this author.
This book has/is :
* inheritance
* timeline 1968-2023
* secrets
* emotional
* betrayal
* mother/daughter relationships.
Look forward to reading more from this author.
August 5, 2025
A beautifully written story of family bonds and betrayals, search for identity, the power of place and a love note to the natural world.
Set in the majestic north-west of Tasmania.
I love the author’s note.
Another fabulous story from Australian author Claire Van Ryn.
Set in the majestic north-west of Tasmania.
I love the author’s note.
Another fabulous story from Australian author Claire Van Ryn.
March 6, 2025
Big thanks to Penguin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Claire Van Ryn’s sophomore release is a jewel in the book industry and has a shining spotlight on it.
A historical family saga story that will imprison your heart and squeeze it constantly.
2023, Saskia is a very busy school teacher, has a young daughter Anouk and having problems with her partner.
At the will reading of her recently deceased beloved grandmother, who had an obsession with birds, left her a caravan.
Inside, Saskia uncovers papers, a ticket and proof of a mysterious past.
Seeking answers she takes a trip with her daughter to Tasmania, searching for the truth.
1968, Greta finds comfort and peace in wildlife especially birds.
Her father is well respected in the community and her loving mother is a successful taxidermist.
From eyes on the outside all is perfect but behind closed doors, darkness is evident.
A dual timeline tale where beauty, love, hope, courage, secrets, family and peace are sublimely interwoven throughout.
Claire’s words are inviting, inspired and addictive and her storytelling is strongly evocative.
A wonderfully written and beautifully structured narrative.
Claire Van Ryn’s sophomore release is a jewel in the book industry and has a shining spotlight on it.
A historical family saga story that will imprison your heart and squeeze it constantly.
2023, Saskia is a very busy school teacher, has a young daughter Anouk and having problems with her partner.
At the will reading of her recently deceased beloved grandmother, who had an obsession with birds, left her a caravan.
Inside, Saskia uncovers papers, a ticket and proof of a mysterious past.
Seeking answers she takes a trip with her daughter to Tasmania, searching for the truth.
1968, Greta finds comfort and peace in wildlife especially birds.
Her father is well respected in the community and her loving mother is a successful taxidermist.
From eyes on the outside all is perfect but behind closed doors, darkness is evident.
A dual timeline tale where beauty, love, hope, courage, secrets, family and peace are sublimely interwoven throughout.
Claire’s words are inviting, inspired and addictive and her storytelling is strongly evocative.
A wonderfully written and beautifully structured narrative.
April 13, 2025
I loved this novel so much. It’s beautifully told, gorgeous locations and exquisite descriptions. I’m so not for the taxidermy, but didn’t even mind that..big themes and characters are here…loved Kiki in both timelines, I just wanted to reach in and give Saskia a hug, I thought everyone was well developed and I cannot wait to read whatever Claire Van Ryn writes next!!!!!!!!!
May 26, 2025
⭐️5 Stars⭐️
Where the Birds Call Her Name by Claire van Ryn is an absolute stunner featuring dual timelines. Claire Van Ryan is an especially gifted storyteller and I was mesmerised by every page of this novel.
Broome 2023 - Saskia, a wife and mother to Anouk is employed as a school teacher. Sadly Saskia’s mother passes and when she inherits a caravan as indicated in the will reading she doesn’t understand why her free spirited mother would leave such a thing to her.
We follow Saskia as she as she travels from Broome, WA to Stanley, Tasmania. After finding her mother’s journals Saskia tries to piece together her mother’s past life.
1968 - Teenager Greta De Winter is drawn to the local wetlands with her fascination of birds, her mother is a taxidermist and her father is the local councillor but not all is what it seems with this family, there is darkness.
The story is set in the haunting landscape beauty of Tasmania’s north-west. I loved how the beginning of each chapter illustrates and references a bird. This book is beautifully written and magically weaves nature with a gripping tale of self discovery, motherhood, family and mystery. I felt like I had practically stepped into the wetlands themselves with binoculars in hand.
I think this book has possibly inspired a trip to Tasmania! Don’t miss this one, a must read and what a wonderful Mother’s day present this would make. 🎁 I certainly will be reading more from this author.
Publication Date 04 March 2025
Publisher Imprint Penguin
Thank you so much to the wonderful team @penguinbooksaus for sending me a copy of the book to read.
Where the Birds Call Her Name by Claire van Ryn is an absolute stunner featuring dual timelines. Claire Van Ryan is an especially gifted storyteller and I was mesmerised by every page of this novel.
Broome 2023 - Saskia, a wife and mother to Anouk is employed as a school teacher. Sadly Saskia’s mother passes and when she inherits a caravan as indicated in the will reading she doesn’t understand why her free spirited mother would leave such a thing to her.
We follow Saskia as she as she travels from Broome, WA to Stanley, Tasmania. After finding her mother’s journals Saskia tries to piece together her mother’s past life.
1968 - Teenager Greta De Winter is drawn to the local wetlands with her fascination of birds, her mother is a taxidermist and her father is the local councillor but not all is what it seems with this family, there is darkness.
The story is set in the haunting landscape beauty of Tasmania’s north-west. I loved how the beginning of each chapter illustrates and references a bird. This book is beautifully written and magically weaves nature with a gripping tale of self discovery, motherhood, family and mystery. I felt like I had practically stepped into the wetlands themselves with binoculars in hand.
I think this book has possibly inspired a trip to Tasmania! Don’t miss this one, a must read and what a wonderful Mother’s day present this would make. 🎁 I certainly will be reading more from this author.
Publication Date 04 March 2025
Publisher Imprint Penguin
Thank you so much to the wonderful team @penguinbooksaus for sending me a copy of the book to read.
April 30, 2025
Where the Birds Call Her Name is a brilliant and absorbing family drama unfolding over two timelines: 1968 and 2023.
When Saskia's mother leaves her a caravan in her will, she thinks her mother might have been having a lend of her, but facing down another year as a burnt out primary school teacher whilst weighted down with the grief of losing her mother suddenly before Christmas, she decides to use a ticket for the ferry from Victoria to Tasmania that she finds inside the van, and takes off with her daughter on a cross country road trip.
Along the way, she loses herself in reading a journal of her mother's dated from 1968, the year her mother left Tasmania. What she reads in the pages of the diary are both inspiring as to who her mother was in her 16th year and shocking in terms of her homelife. Upon arriving in Tasmania, she learns more of her family mystery and finds herself and a new pathway in the process.
Usually, with a dual timeline novel,one storyline will be stronger than the other, but I didn't find that with this novel. I was engaged all the way through and invested in the mystery as well empathetic to Saskia's situation. The 1968 timeline did an exceptional job of demonstrating coercive control in action, which of course would not have even been a recognised form of domestic violence back then, but it was interesting to see the perceptions of those in the community who knew that 'something was not quite right in that household'.
Some sections are not for the faint-hearted when it came to the taxidermy, although I found it fascinating, as a bird lover, it pulled me up at first. The science and historical aspect of taxidermy is very interesting, though. Surprisingly, we discover at the end that this novel is not entirely fictitious. I was shocked to realise that the wetland drained in the story was indeed drained in real life for pasture, leading to the displacement of many species of waterbirds and other wetlands fauna and flora - an entire ecosystem erased.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and recommend it widely. Thanks to Penguin Australia for the review copy.
When Saskia's mother leaves her a caravan in her will, she thinks her mother might have been having a lend of her, but facing down another year as a burnt out primary school teacher whilst weighted down with the grief of losing her mother suddenly before Christmas, she decides to use a ticket for the ferry from Victoria to Tasmania that she finds inside the van, and takes off with her daughter on a cross country road trip.
Along the way, she loses herself in reading a journal of her mother's dated from 1968, the year her mother left Tasmania. What she reads in the pages of the diary are both inspiring as to who her mother was in her 16th year and shocking in terms of her homelife. Upon arriving in Tasmania, she learns more of her family mystery and finds herself and a new pathway in the process.
Usually, with a dual timeline novel,one storyline will be stronger than the other, but I didn't find that with this novel. I was engaged all the way through and invested in the mystery as well empathetic to Saskia's situation. The 1968 timeline did an exceptional job of demonstrating coercive control in action, which of course would not have even been a recognised form of domestic violence back then, but it was interesting to see the perceptions of those in the community who knew that 'something was not quite right in that household'.
Some sections are not for the faint-hearted when it came to the taxidermy, although I found it fascinating, as a bird lover, it pulled me up at first. The science and historical aspect of taxidermy is very interesting, though. Surprisingly, we discover at the end that this novel is not entirely fictitious. I was shocked to realise that the wetland drained in the story was indeed drained in real life for pasture, leading to the displacement of many species of waterbirds and other wetlands fauna and flora - an entire ecosystem erased.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and recommend it widely. Thanks to Penguin Australia for the review copy.
February 17, 2025
After receiving an ARC from my book rep through work I couldn't wait to read it. After thoroughly enjoying The Secrets of the Huon Wren I was hoping that this wouldn't disappoint. Definitely no disappointment in this totally enjoyable novel. Read it in 1 day as I couldn't put it down and wanted to know how it ended.
Once again Claire has managed to drag me into a world so close but yet so far from my own. I loved learning more about our beautiful Tasmanian birds during this story as well.
Congratulations and well done on another AMAZING novel. Can't wait for number 3
Once again Claire has managed to drag me into a world so close but yet so far from my own. I loved learning more about our beautiful Tasmanian birds during this story as well.
Congratulations and well done on another AMAZING novel. Can't wait for number 3
February 23, 2025
I’m going to be upfront and say that this isn’t my type of book and I read it because it was kindly gifted to me to review. While the story held some intrigue for me, it ultimately wasn’t for me, but I still liked it at times. The book is well written and does transport you across time easily. This will be an enjoyable book for people who enjoy general fiction.
April 5, 2025
Loved it! Borrowed my wife’s copy - wasn’t as girly as I thought 😜Feels like I’ve literally been in Stanley for the last few days! Superb job as usual CVR.
July 15, 2025
I devoured this book. Beautifully written, strong character development and a sweet connection to home. Oh, and the birds are a highlight.
April 7, 2025
Very beautiful 💗🐦 I wish it had a little more depth to it
January 30, 2025
I read Claire van Ryn’s first book last year and really enjoyed it, so when I got the opportunity to read her latest release “Where the Birds Call her Name” I jumped at the chance. And I was not disappointed.
Alternating between Saskia in 2023, and Greta in 1968, it is an amazing journey of discovery. Starting in Broome, Western Australia, Saskia’s mother, Kiki, passes away on the first page. When the will is read Saskia has been left Kiki’s old caravan. When cleaning the van for sale an old journal of Kiki’s is discovered along with a ferry ticket for Tasmania dated for a few months time. Stressed out, Saskia decides to take time off from her work as a teacher, leave her workaholic husband to fend for himself for a few months and drive with her daughter Anouka to Stanley in Tasmania to find out about her mother’s family; and why her mother changed her name and never mentioned her childhood.
The story switches between sixteen-year-old Greta in this tiny little town in the north west of Tasmania and Saskia and Anouka driving from Broome to Stanley. Excerpts from the diary link the two time periods until eventually the past leads to the present, secrets are revealed and life changing decisions are made.
The two timelines are connected by more than Kiki/Greta and Saskia. There are the birds. Oh the birds, be still my beating heart. As a bird lover and watcher the birds really made the book for me. Kiki learned her love of birds and their environment from her mother and, in turn, passed this love onto Saskia and Anouka. Scattered between the chapters are descriptions of Australian birds, specifically Tasmanian birds. In fact birds appear all through the book as the characters take joy at their appearance. And birds are the link between the past and the present.
If you love birds, and love family relationships then “Where the Birds Call her Name” is for you.
Thank you to Penguin Random House Australia for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
Alternating between Saskia in 2023, and Greta in 1968, it is an amazing journey of discovery. Starting in Broome, Western Australia, Saskia’s mother, Kiki, passes away on the first page. When the will is read Saskia has been left Kiki’s old caravan. When cleaning the van for sale an old journal of Kiki’s is discovered along with a ferry ticket for Tasmania dated for a few months time. Stressed out, Saskia decides to take time off from her work as a teacher, leave her workaholic husband to fend for himself for a few months and drive with her daughter Anouka to Stanley in Tasmania to find out about her mother’s family; and why her mother changed her name and never mentioned her childhood.
The story switches between sixteen-year-old Greta in this tiny little town in the north west of Tasmania and Saskia and Anouka driving from Broome to Stanley. Excerpts from the diary link the two time periods until eventually the past leads to the present, secrets are revealed and life changing decisions are made.
The two timelines are connected by more than Kiki/Greta and Saskia. There are the birds. Oh the birds, be still my beating heart. As a bird lover and watcher the birds really made the book for me. Kiki learned her love of birds and their environment from her mother and, in turn, passed this love onto Saskia and Anouka. Scattered between the chapters are descriptions of Australian birds, specifically Tasmanian birds. In fact birds appear all through the book as the characters take joy at their appearance. And birds are the link between the past and the present.
If you love birds, and love family relationships then “Where the Birds Call her Name” is for you.
Thank you to Penguin Random House Australia for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
April 14, 2025
Where the Birds Call Her Name is the latest novel by Claire Van Ryn. A dual timeline story set between Broome in 2023 and Stanley, Tasmania in 1968.
Saskia Honeyman is a burnt-out schoolteacher, wife and mother. Everything in Saskia life has lost its sparkle and when her mother Kiki suddenly passes away, grappling with the loss of her mother, Saskia is puzzled as to why she inherited her mother’s old caravan with a booked ferry ticket to Tasmania hidden in the draw. Listening to her mother instructions “for all of her three children to be free and to not let any career or circumstance deprive them of freedom” Saskia decides to press pause on her overstretched life and accompanied by her young daughter Anouk, sets off across the country to arrive in Stanley, Tasmania in search of answers about her mother’s hidden past.
Stanley, 1968, Greta De Winter, is a teenager approaching independence. Living under the shadow of a coercive controlling father and a mother who mother preoccupies herself with a contract to complete a taxidermy diorama for the Tasmanian Museum, Greta finds solace among the bird life in the wetlands near her home.
As Saskia travels, she slowly reads journal entries of her mother, and it becomes clear that Greta is young Kiki. Revealing a world that is stifling and quietly desperate, Greta’s love for birds becomes a means of escape and, ultimately, a lifeline. Through the pages, these two stories weave together to bring a story of family, legacy, self-discovery and beautiful landscapes.
Personally, I am going to love any story set in Stanley, as it is a place that’s close to my heart. Visiting often as a child and living here in my early twenties, I loved seeing the town come to life on the page. The mentions of The Green Hills, The Nut, the Wharf, the old convict barracks, and the long-forgotten swamp lands brought a sense of familiarity and surprise, I hadn’t known there was a swamp in Stanley that had since been drained. I loved learning this little piece of local history.
What makes this book so special is Claire’s ability to blend fact with fiction so seamlessly. Each chapter begins with an excerpt about a Tasmanian bird, not just to showcase Australia’s rich avian life, but to serve as metaphor, freedom, strength, resilience, and flight, all mirrored in the lives of the women at the centre of the novel. The birds become quiet observers and symbols of the choices we inherit and the ones we make for ourselves.
While the pacing starts gently, the emotional pull tightens as Saskia and Anouk dig deeper into the secrets long buried in their family’s history. Some of the darker themes, such as gaslighting and control, are handled with subtlety and care, never sensationalised but never shied away from either.
Where the Birds Call Her Name is a story of mothers and daughters, of finding strength in vulnerability, and of the quiet, powerful ways that nature can guide us back to ourselves. A must-read for lovers of generational storytelling, lyrical prose, and those who love a story set in Tasmania. Five stars from me
Saskia Honeyman is a burnt-out schoolteacher, wife and mother. Everything in Saskia life has lost its sparkle and when her mother Kiki suddenly passes away, grappling with the loss of her mother, Saskia is puzzled as to why she inherited her mother’s old caravan with a booked ferry ticket to Tasmania hidden in the draw. Listening to her mother instructions “for all of her three children to be free and to not let any career or circumstance deprive them of freedom” Saskia decides to press pause on her overstretched life and accompanied by her young daughter Anouk, sets off across the country to arrive in Stanley, Tasmania in search of answers about her mother’s hidden past.
Stanley, 1968, Greta De Winter, is a teenager approaching independence. Living under the shadow of a coercive controlling father and a mother who mother preoccupies herself with a contract to complete a taxidermy diorama for the Tasmanian Museum, Greta finds solace among the bird life in the wetlands near her home.
As Saskia travels, she slowly reads journal entries of her mother, and it becomes clear that Greta is young Kiki. Revealing a world that is stifling and quietly desperate, Greta’s love for birds becomes a means of escape and, ultimately, a lifeline. Through the pages, these two stories weave together to bring a story of family, legacy, self-discovery and beautiful landscapes.
Personally, I am going to love any story set in Stanley, as it is a place that’s close to my heart. Visiting often as a child and living here in my early twenties, I loved seeing the town come to life on the page. The mentions of The Green Hills, The Nut, the Wharf, the old convict barracks, and the long-forgotten swamp lands brought a sense of familiarity and surprise, I hadn’t known there was a swamp in Stanley that had since been drained. I loved learning this little piece of local history.
What makes this book so special is Claire’s ability to blend fact with fiction so seamlessly. Each chapter begins with an excerpt about a Tasmanian bird, not just to showcase Australia’s rich avian life, but to serve as metaphor, freedom, strength, resilience, and flight, all mirrored in the lives of the women at the centre of the novel. The birds become quiet observers and symbols of the choices we inherit and the ones we make for ourselves.
While the pacing starts gently, the emotional pull tightens as Saskia and Anouk dig deeper into the secrets long buried in their family’s history. Some of the darker themes, such as gaslighting and control, are handled with subtlety and care, never sensationalised but never shied away from either.
Where the Birds Call Her Name is a story of mothers and daughters, of finding strength in vulnerability, and of the quiet, powerful ways that nature can guide us back to ourselves. A must-read for lovers of generational storytelling, lyrical prose, and those who love a story set in Tasmania. Five stars from me
March 11, 2025
I’m not great at writing reviews but this book deserves having something said!
This book is stunning. It took me a little longer to get into than Secrets of the Huon Wren but it quickly captured me and I couldn’t put it down
Whilst a dual story starting in W.A. I walked the streets of Stanley with Greta and then with Saskia and Anouk and was cast back to childhood holidays spent in the small coastal town
The story unfolds with some twists and turns and surprises and I loved it. It’s a story of love, betrayal, pain, the difficulties of family life and the fact that a mothers love always lies within our hearts and that it’s not too late to rediscover ourselves when we think we are lost.
Congratulations Claire Van Ryn
This book is stunning. It took me a little longer to get into than Secrets of the Huon Wren but it quickly captured me and I couldn’t put it down
Whilst a dual story starting in W.A. I walked the streets of Stanley with Greta and then with Saskia and Anouk and was cast back to childhood holidays spent in the small coastal town
The story unfolds with some twists and turns and surprises and I loved it. It’s a story of love, betrayal, pain, the difficulties of family life and the fact that a mothers love always lies within our hearts and that it’s not too late to rediscover ourselves when we think we are lost.
Congratulations Claire Van Ryn
April 14, 2025
A sweet story of family and hidden hurts. Beautifully set in Stanley, Tasmania. Another Aussie author to follow.
April 25, 2025
Where the Birds Call Her Name is a dual timeline story set between Broome, Western Australia in 2023 and Stanley, Tasmania in 1968. Claire has seamlessly blended fact and fiction to pen a moving and heartfelt story.
‘Saskia stood up and walked to the window, stretching her neck, her back, stretching the questions playing on repeat in her head and agitating every fibre of her: Why, Mum? Why give me your caravan?’
Saskia's mother left her a caravan and a ticket on the Spirit of Tasmania in her will. Within the caravan, Saskia finds her mother's journal which hints at a life Saskia knew nothing about. Feeling unsettled with her life in Broome - hectic life of being a teacher and her seemingly distant husband - Saskia decides to make use of the van. Packing up her life, taking a break from her marriage and job, she takes herself and her daughter in the van heading off on a journey across the country. Together they travel to Stanley, Tasmania where Saskia slowly unravels the story of her mother Greta 'Kiki' De Winter and what had been her unhappy childhood. It is a wonderful story of four generations of women who are connected by not only family but by the secrets that they carry. The descriptions of the unique Australian birds are both interesting and serve as metaphors within the story itself. Each chapter showcases a particular bird whose attributes are then revealed through the chapter theme - maybe resilience or strength, for examples.
‘Kiki’s death has given me a wake-up call,’ Saskia spoke with more conviction than she’d had in a long time. ‘I want to feel again, for my life to have meaning and joy.’
Where the Birds Call Her Name is a remarkable story. How understanding the past can lead to self discovery, along with the strong bonds that exist in both families and with nature. Recommended for readers of generational tales who enjoy fabulous storytelling and lyrical prose
‘The stillness broke and their hearts drank from the place where the birds would always call her name.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘Saskia stood up and walked to the window, stretching her neck, her back, stretching the questions playing on repeat in her head and agitating every fibre of her: Why, Mum? Why give me your caravan?’
Saskia's mother left her a caravan and a ticket on the Spirit of Tasmania in her will. Within the caravan, Saskia finds her mother's journal which hints at a life Saskia knew nothing about. Feeling unsettled with her life in Broome - hectic life of being a teacher and her seemingly distant husband - Saskia decides to make use of the van. Packing up her life, taking a break from her marriage and job, she takes herself and her daughter in the van heading off on a journey across the country. Together they travel to Stanley, Tasmania where Saskia slowly unravels the story of her mother Greta 'Kiki' De Winter and what had been her unhappy childhood. It is a wonderful story of four generations of women who are connected by not only family but by the secrets that they carry. The descriptions of the unique Australian birds are both interesting and serve as metaphors within the story itself. Each chapter showcases a particular bird whose attributes are then revealed through the chapter theme - maybe resilience or strength, for examples.
‘Kiki’s death has given me a wake-up call,’ Saskia spoke with more conviction than she’d had in a long time. ‘I want to feel again, for my life to have meaning and joy.’
Where the Birds Call Her Name is a remarkable story. How understanding the past can lead to self discovery, along with the strong bonds that exist in both families and with nature. Recommended for readers of generational tales who enjoy fabulous storytelling and lyrical prose
‘The stillness broke and their hearts drank from the place where the birds would always call her name.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
March 2, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! Claire’s writing is beautiful and the descriptions of the nature just make me want to travel around Australia.
The little snippets into the local birds were interesting and provided a great insight into what was occurring around the main story.
Thank you NetGalley, Penguin Random House Australia and the author for my copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
The little snippets into the local birds were interesting and provided a great insight into what was occurring around the main story.
Thank you NetGalley, Penguin Random House Australia and the author for my copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
March 26, 2025
A lovely premise; a daughter gifted a caravan, who then travels with her own daughter to uncover family secrets. Beautiful imagery.
July 11, 2025
A beautifully written book. So enjoyed this story.
April 29, 2025
Fabulous! Enjoyed dissecting every chapter. Can’t wait for number three.
April 3, 2025
Where the Birds Call Her Name is about self-discovery, understanding the past, and the deep connections between family, nature, and identity. It teaches us that uncovering the truth—no matter how painful—can help us grow, heal, and find our true place in the world. The story also shows that sometimes, the things we don’t understand at first (like Saskia’s mother leaving her a caravan) can lead us to important discoveries about ourselves and our loved ones.
April 11, 2025
this was such a good read. I fell in love with the characters the location set on a travel from Broome to Tasmania from past to present . be free like a bird flap your wings and fly 🥰
April 26, 2025
Where the Birds Call Her Name is the latest novel from Australian author Claire van Ryn and that divine cover is the perfect indication of the heartfelt story inside.
It’s a tale told across two timelines, keeping the story fresh and propulsive. From Broome in 2023, where schoolteacher and rigid scheduler, Saskia is left a caravan in her mother’s will. The unusual bequest sends her on a journey to Tasmania with her young daughter Anouk, following clues about her mother’s mysterious past. We are also taken to 1968, where teenager Greta De Winter feels very at home in the Stanley wetlands observing the wildlife. To an outsider, Greta’s home life seems like anyone else’s, but there are dark secrets hidden here. When Saskia begins searching for the missing pieces to Greta’s life, she starts to understand her mother’s reasons for leaving her the van and ultimately sending her on this quest.
A beautifully written novel of mothers and daughters, loss and grief, but ultimately family and love, Where the Birds Call Her Name is stunningly evocative of the natural world and its feathered inhabitants. The sense of peace and calm that is transmitted from these magnificent creatures and their superb habitat permeates these pages. The descriptions were so vivid that I felt like I could see and hear these creatures while reading.
I have been loving books which are filled with emotion lately and Where the Birds Call Her Name was certainly one of those. It had me in tears at some parts and filled with fury at others, but ultimately left me with a sense of hope and joy. Always the sign of a fantastic book.
It’s a tale told across two timelines, keeping the story fresh and propulsive. From Broome in 2023, where schoolteacher and rigid scheduler, Saskia is left a caravan in her mother’s will. The unusual bequest sends her on a journey to Tasmania with her young daughter Anouk, following clues about her mother’s mysterious past. We are also taken to 1968, where teenager Greta De Winter feels very at home in the Stanley wetlands observing the wildlife. To an outsider, Greta’s home life seems like anyone else’s, but there are dark secrets hidden here. When Saskia begins searching for the missing pieces to Greta’s life, she starts to understand her mother’s reasons for leaving her the van and ultimately sending her on this quest.
A beautifully written novel of mothers and daughters, loss and grief, but ultimately family and love, Where the Birds Call Her Name is stunningly evocative of the natural world and its feathered inhabitants. The sense of peace and calm that is transmitted from these magnificent creatures and their superb habitat permeates these pages. The descriptions were so vivid that I felt like I could see and hear these creatures while reading.
I have been loving books which are filled with emotion lately and Where the Birds Call Her Name was certainly one of those. It had me in tears at some parts and filled with fury at others, but ultimately left me with a sense of hope and joy. Always the sign of a fantastic book.
April 3, 2025
Another vivid and stunning transgenerational story from @clairevanryn.
This is escapism at its best; completely captivating the reader and immersing them in 1960s Tasmania.
When Saskia’s mother Kiki dies, she feels completely lost. In order to find herself she travels from Broome, WA to Stanley, Tasmania with her mother’s old caravan and her daughter Anouk.
Mysteries abound Kiki’s earlier life and Saskia is keen to learn more about her mother’s childhood in a hope to learn more about herself.
This is a gorgeous story about mothers and daughters. About flying away and the journey back home.
It was fascinating learning a little about taxidermy, as well as about some of Australia’s unique bird life.
Like hats off to the bar-tailed godwit -‘one tagged godwit broke a record by flying for eleven days non-stop from Alaska to Tasmania, a distance of 13,560 kilometres’ 😱
I loved the penny drop moment when the title made sense and everything came together.
Tasmania has such a magnetic pull with its rugged beauty; reading this has
inspired a family trip over later this year.
I think #wherethebirdscallhername would be a lovely gift for Mother’s Day- a layered and poignant story of motherhood.
That is ultimately full of hope.
Thank you to Clare Van Ryn and @penguinaus for gifting this beautiful novel to read.
AD-PR.
This is escapism at its best; completely captivating the reader and immersing them in 1960s Tasmania.
When Saskia’s mother Kiki dies, she feels completely lost. In order to find herself she travels from Broome, WA to Stanley, Tasmania with her mother’s old caravan and her daughter Anouk.
Mysteries abound Kiki’s earlier life and Saskia is keen to learn more about her mother’s childhood in a hope to learn more about herself.
This is a gorgeous story about mothers and daughters. About flying away and the journey back home.
It was fascinating learning a little about taxidermy, as well as about some of Australia’s unique bird life.
Like hats off to the bar-tailed godwit -‘one tagged godwit broke a record by flying for eleven days non-stop from Alaska to Tasmania, a distance of 13,560 kilometres’ 😱
I loved the penny drop moment when the title made sense and everything came together.
Tasmania has such a magnetic pull with its rugged beauty; reading this has
inspired a family trip over later this year.
I think #wherethebirdscallhername would be a lovely gift for Mother’s Day- a layered and poignant story of motherhood.
That is ultimately full of hope.
Thank you to Clare Van Ryn and @penguinaus for gifting this beautiful novel to read.
AD-PR.
April 20, 2025
4.5 stars.
Broome 2023: when Saskia’s free-spirited mother leaves her a caravan in her will, it doesn’t make sense. Then she finds clues in the van about her mother’s mysterious past, setting her on a journey to Tasmania with her young daughter Anouk, who shares her late grandmother’s fascination with birds. When Saskia and Anouk arrive in Stanley, they search for the missing pieces to the puzzle of Greta’s tragic childhood.
Oh, this was such an epic story! I didn’t expect a roadtrip, so it was a super nice surprise, and I loved every moment of it. The birds illustrations and descriptions between chapters were gorgeous - they brought something different and made the reading experience unique.
I really liked Saskia. Her state of overwhelm was understandable, especially given the challenges she faced with her students. I could see how difficult it’d be to want to teach but having to do violence interventions instead. Greta’s journal was another highlight for me - it was intriguing and I enjoyed guessing how her chapters and the journal entries would connect.
This was a beautifully crafted story, with multi-layered storytelling showing the complexity of each character and their relationships, such as Saskia and Dane’s. I loved the writing and would love to read more from the author!
(Thanks to Penguin Australia for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
Broome 2023: when Saskia’s free-spirited mother leaves her a caravan in her will, it doesn’t make sense. Then she finds clues in the van about her mother’s mysterious past, setting her on a journey to Tasmania with her young daughter Anouk, who shares her late grandmother’s fascination with birds. When Saskia and Anouk arrive in Stanley, they search for the missing pieces to the puzzle of Greta’s tragic childhood.
Oh, this was such an epic story! I didn’t expect a roadtrip, so it was a super nice surprise, and I loved every moment of it. The birds illustrations and descriptions between chapters were gorgeous - they brought something different and made the reading experience unique.
I really liked Saskia. Her state of overwhelm was understandable, especially given the challenges she faced with her students. I could see how difficult it’d be to want to teach but having to do violence interventions instead. Greta’s journal was another highlight for me - it was intriguing and I enjoyed guessing how her chapters and the journal entries would connect.
This was a beautifully crafted story, with multi-layered storytelling showing the complexity of each character and their relationships, such as Saskia and Dane’s. I loved the writing and would love to read more from the author!
(Thanks to Penguin Australia for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
April 27, 2025
When this book was one of the choices for Bookclub, I thought great a book about birds, something I would like to read- NOT!
Boy was I wrong!! this story was a great one and it made me remember the time when we visited Stanley, it brought back so many memories of the place.
I loved the dual timelines, focussing on Saskia in 2023 after the recent death of her mother, and her mother, Greta as a 16 year old in 1968.
Inheriting her mother’s caravan, Saskia discovers a boat ticket to Tasmania hidden inside, she takes leave from work, pulls her daughter out of school, and takes on a journey from Broome to Tasmania.
We soon discover more about Saskia and Greta; some moments are joyful, while others are deeply heartbreaking.
I like how each chapter of the dual timeline starts with information about Tasmanian birds, and how they align and connect to the story.
The story’s strong emphasis on family is especially heartwarming and the symbol of strength and freedom.
Highly recommend, could not put it down.
Boy was I wrong!! this story was a great one and it made me remember the time when we visited Stanley, it brought back so many memories of the place.
I loved the dual timelines, focussing on Saskia in 2023 after the recent death of her mother, and her mother, Greta as a 16 year old in 1968.
Inheriting her mother’s caravan, Saskia discovers a boat ticket to Tasmania hidden inside, she takes leave from work, pulls her daughter out of school, and takes on a journey from Broome to Tasmania.
We soon discover more about Saskia and Greta; some moments are joyful, while others are deeply heartbreaking.
I like how each chapter of the dual timeline starts with information about Tasmanian birds, and how they align and connect to the story.
The story’s strong emphasis on family is especially heartwarming and the symbol of strength and freedom.
Highly recommend, could not put it down.
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