"The Thorn Birds" is a novel by Colleen McCullough, published in 1977. It tells the story of the Cleary family, focusing on their lives in the Australian outback over several decades. The narrative explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams, particularly through the character of Meggie Cleary and her complex relationship with a Catholic priest, Father Ralph de Bricassart. Set against the backdrop of the Australian landscape, the title refers to a mythical bird that searches for the perfect mate, singing beautifully before dying. The novel examines the struggles and aspirations of its characters, highlighting the tension between personal desires and societal expectations.