The book takes place mostly in the 1950's when WWII was over but its effects were still lingering over Finns in many ways. It describes how the country was recovering but many people had to sacrifice mental or physical health for the collective good.

Nature suffered too, when ancient forests were cut down and streams widened to feed timber to the growing economy. Efforts to map endangered species and establish nature reserves were put forward but they did not always happen in time.

This book links human nature to the wild forests and small creatures. It celebrates bones and muscles, instincts and natural behaviour. Nature is where one breathes freely and escapes the requirements and norms of society.

One of the major themes of the book is loneliness and the recognition that people need each other. Loneliness stems from the experience of not being able to meet demands that the society puts on people, and from a feeling of outsiderness in not conforming to norms. In the 50's Finland was a very unicultural (if that's a word?) society and everyone was more or less expected to lead similar lives.

The book is written in exceptionally beautiful language. It speaks for those among us who are quiet and do not keep up with the demands of society. It lingers in your mind for a long time after reading, in a good way.