One of Vesaas's most important novels, The Birds is the story of a woman who dedicated her life to caring for her simple younger brother. When a visiting woodcutter enters their enclosed world, complications arise. The author reveals a deep and compassionate insight into human nature and a lyrical response to the Norwegian landscape. A spare, icily humane story - The character of Mattis, absurd and boastful, also sweet, pathetic, even funny, is shown with great insight."" - Sunday Times. ""[This] novel...gave me particular pleasure."" - Doris Lessing ""A literary gem."" - Publishers Weekly.