We are excited to share that Meulenhoff Boekerij has acquired the Dutch rights to Reetta Ranta‘s SOUL BIRDS. The deal was closed by Martti Berner at Ahlbäck Agency.
This is what Josephine Monnickendam thought of ther book:
‘This book shows the significance of birds in Finnish folklore, mythology and modern life. It’s fascinating to learn more about these rich traditions and beliefs and I really like how Reetta Ranta highlights 15 individual birds to further explore their symbolic meanings and their relationship to humans, incorporating personal stories and interviews. We are sure it will also resonate with our Dutch readers and think it’s an excellent fit for our non-fiction list.’
Meulenhoff Boekerij has a strong non-fiction list and with their Boekerij line theyfocus in particular on inspirational, gift worthy books that convey wisdom about life inspired by different cultures. They are for example, the publisher of Ikigai by Héctor García & Francesc Miralles and Haemin Sunim’s The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down.
Reetta Ranta, who as a child had a pet crow perched on her shoulder, explores in her book the significance of birds in folklore, mythology, and modern life. The book journeys through the rich traditions of kindred peoples and also visits stories from other cultures. In examining the relationship between humans and birds, it also raises questions about biodiversity loss: how should the endangerment of sparrows be interpreted in light of ancient myths?
Request the materials for SOUL BIRDS here!
SOUL BIRDS
Reetta Ranta
Is the raven a harbinger of death or a winged comforter? What does the cuckoo’s call signify, and how has the symbolism of the swan been interpreted across cultures?
In the traditions of the Finnic peoples of the Baltic Sea region, birds are carriers of souls, protectors, and messengers. They travel between this world and the beyond—some birds foretell death, others bring fortune. Migratory birds fly along the Milky Way to a mythical place called Lintukoto (Bird Home), a warm haven that those in the north can only dream of longingly during winter.
SOUL BIRDS
Sielulinnut
SKS, 2025, pp. 144
Rights Sold:
FINLAND: SKS Kirjat (orig.)
NETHERLANDS: Meulenhoff Boekerij
Reading materials:
English Synopsis
English Draft Translation
Finnish Edition
Loukko by 




