Books
How Scotland spread out to influence the world
Scotland’s Global Empire is a well-written and impeccably researched guide to some fascinating and lesser known characters and their magnificent achievements. I found the lack of images and the sheer weight of words within this chronicle a problem, making it difficult to get started on and impossible to pick up and devour in small chunks,…
Read MoreAn in-depth look at Britain’s worst rail disaster
The Quintinshill Conspiracy, subtitled ‘The Shocking True Story Behind Britain’s Worst Rail Disaster’, is a comprehensive in-depth look into the horrendous 1915 crash involving five trains that took place at an isolated signal box on the West Coast main line from London to Glasgow, half a mile north-west of Gretna. At this time the railways…
Read MoreA laugh out loud read of history through Scots eyes
I literally laughed out loud at this hilarious wee book, If History Was Scottish. These are choice quotes from the biggest players, spoken at the most important moments in history. The twist is that they have been changed to reflect what a Scot would have said at that time and place. I can just imagine…
Read MoreHappy nostalgia for beach holidays in Scotland
Wish You Were Still Here: The Scottish Seaside Holiday is a nostalgic look at the long lost Scottish beach holiday. There are plenty of old images which are sure to bring back happy childhood memories for those who enjoyed an annual summer staycation as well as some lovely (and cheeky) old postcard pics. This is…
Read MoreD for Dumfries in this handy guide to the south
Known as ‘The Queen of the South’, Dumfries is laid out for all to see in this A-Z. Don’t mistake it for a collection of road maps though, this book instead weaves its way through history, famous residents and current hidden gems. In some ways, it’s really a love letter to the market town. Smith…
Read MoreCelebrating the popular superfood – kale
Championed by chefs, health experts and celebrities alike, kale has become one of the world’s most renowned superfoods. With plenty of the curly green grown in Scotland, you are sure to find the freshest ingredients and this useful pocket-sized recipe book presents a variety of ways you can incorporate the nutritious vegetable into your everyday…
Read MoreScots author’s exciting fantasy novel
This supernatural fantasy novel for young adults tells the story of Maggie, a girl with supernatural powers, who is sent to fight a coven of German witches during World War II. Whilst at war Maggie falls in love, forcing her to test her emotional strength and power in order to keep her loved one safe.…
Read MoreThis is a book that might float your boat
Essex born David Christie, moved to Callander, Central Scotland, in the early 70s, which is when his fascination with The Caledonian MacBrayne fleet of car and passenger ferries began. After taking a journey on the last of the MacBraynes turbine steamers, King George V, on an evening cruise to Oban, Christie was smitten. Even managing…
Read MoreScottish launch for Rebecca Solnit’s powerful memoir
Organisers of the Edinburgh International Book Festival have announced a special event next month with the American author, essayist and political activist Rebecca Solnit. Solnit, who is making her only appearance in Scotland, will be in conversation with Scottish poet, novelist and playwright Jenni Fagan on Monday 30 March at 7.30pm at the Assembly Rooms.…
Read MoreA guide to the best scrambling in Scotland
Suitable for all scramblers, from first timers to seasoned pros, Classic Mountain Scrambles in Scotland is a comprehensive and enjoyable guide to the best places for scrambling, covering the mainland of Scotland and the Inner Hebrides. This latest edition includes 70 new photographs from the author, IOS maps and easy-to-follow instructions for each suggested scramble,…
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