In this novel, the natural world is both character and backdrop. Betty would like more from life, but isn’t quite sure how to proceed. Hazel is observant and matter of fact, while Michael is walking the difficult path of adolescence. Much of this novel is about records: Harry’s bird watching diary Betty’s record of her children’s illnesses Hazel’s nature diary and Harry’s letters to Michael. It has something to do with the lungs and the taking in and expelling of air.’ ‘Time, in Harry’s understanding is measured in the body. Unfortunately, Harry hasn’t spoken with Betty before writing these letters for Michael. Perhaps, if Harry had known more about sex, been both less ignorant and less eager, his wife wouldn’t have left him. Harry is something of a father figure for Michael and Hazel, and when he realises how confused Michael is about ‘things with girls’ he writes to Michael about the things he wished he’d known at the same age.

Betty works at the aged-care centre in town, worries about her children (Michael and Hazel) and imagines a physical relationship with Harry. Betty, the woman next door, is bringing up two children on her own. Harry was once married, but his wife left him for another birdwatcher. Harry is a dairy farmer and keen birdwatcher, tending his cows in accordance with the rhythms of milking and breeding. It’s 1953, and just outside the small country town of Cohuna in adjacent farmhouses live Harry and Betty. ‘And adults are part of this pretence – they hold one thing in their hand and call it another.’

Mateship with Birds by Carrie Tiffany