The Vulture Maiden [Die Geier-Wally.]

"The Vulture Maiden [Die Geier-Wally]" by Wilhelmine von Hillern is a late 19th-century story about Wallburga Stromminger, nicknamed Wally, a courageous young woman who challenges the expectations of her community. Wally's bravery is evident from a young age when she rescues a vulture chick from a dangerous cliff, earning her the title "Vulture-maiden" and demonstrating her remarkable skill in the Tyrolean mountains. The book follows Wally as she struggles against her controlling father, develops feelings for Joseph, a bear-hunter, and ultimately faces exile in the unforgiving Hochjoch mountains. Exploring self-discovery, love, and defiance, the narrative centers around Wally's pursuit of liberty and her connection to the natural world, as she seeks to carve out her destiny in a society that often seeks to limit her.