The first novel in Arno Camenisch's celebrated alpine trilogy is set
during a single summer. The four main (unnamed) characters are a
dairyman, his farmhand, a cowherd, and a swineherd who all live and work
in close proximity--but this is no Heidi. Theirs is an existence marked
by dangerous work, solitude, cruelty, alcoholism, and sheer
stubbornness; but the author's handling of these situations and lives is
characterized at all times by affection, surreal humor, and a brilliant
ear for the sounds of the setting.