Books
The Scottish island where everyone smuggled whisky
Such was the scale of illicit whisky distilling in Arran during the late 18th and 19th centuries, it is suggested that every one of the island’s inhabitants was involved in smuggling the golden tipple at some point in their life. Yet, while Islay and the Highlands are associated with some of the best whiskies in…
Read MoreA gripping whodunnit – with laughs on the way
If you are looking to settle down with a gripping whodunnit – and a good measure of comedy – the latest crime novel from Angus McAllister, author of Close Quarters, is worth picking up. Set in Glasgow, Annette Somerville is a young single mother earning her living as an upmarket prostitute in a sauna parlour…
Read MoreA fascinating insight into a privileged socialist
The Burning Glass tells the fascinating story of Naomi Mitchison, a dedicated socialist and feminist who attacked life with an insatiable energy and a desire to speak out for the needs of others. Born into privilege in Edinburgh in 1897, she died aged 101 having given birth to seven children, travelled the world and campaigned…
Read MoreA spectacular showcase of the art of Edinburgh
The Edinburgh Art Book brings together the works of 67 contemporary artists who have been inspired by Edinburgh’s character to capture the essence of the capital and the surrounding area. It is the third in a series of books edited by collage artist Emma Bennett, who, for this edition, was aided by a selection panel…
Read MoreThis history of Lothian Buses is your ticket to ride
Lothian Buses – 100 years and Beyond demonstrates the long and interesting history behind Edinburgh and the Lothian’s most loved and favoured bus service. With unique, and never before published photos, Richard Walter shows us all the different phases the buses have been through in the past, and how that got them to where they…
Read MoreCrime writing pair host lunch for a good cause
Two of Scotland’s leading crime writers are to host a Dead Good Lunch in aid of a worthy cause. Douglas Skelton and Ayrshire’s Michael Malone will hold the lunch, on Sunday 15 September, from noon at Lochgreen House Hotel in Troon. Proceeds from the lunch will go towards Hansel’s Wilson House Refurbishment Appeal. Hansel is…
Read MoreStories and sound installation at book festival
The Edinburgh International Book Festival today launched the latest chapter in the 365: Stories and Music collaboration between James Robertson and Aidan O’Rourke. Commissioned by the Book Festival, and supported by Creative Scotland, an immersive sound installation of stories and music by the two leading Scottish artists can be enjoyed, free of charge, by the…
Read MoreAn insightful guide to the secrets of Stirling
Stirling, while remaining a small settlement throughout the past, is not to be underestimated and holds huge significance in Scottish history. It has been associated with some of the most famous names in Scotland, including William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots, with Stirling Castle housing almost every Scottish monarch. Secret Stirling gives a vivid…
Read MoreA look at Scottish trains which is the rail deal
The Scottish Rail Scene gives a whistle-stop tour of the railway services throughout Scotland. From the bustling scenes of Edinburgh’s Waverley or Glasgow Queen Street, to the more remote Highland outposts such as Mallaig or Kyle: John Jackson has visited, photographed and documented them all. Since he first set foot in Scotland in 1968, Jackson…
Read MoreA look at what goes into making fine furniture
In this large but stunningly illustrated and compelling autobiographical tome, artist Rupert Williamson dissects the organic process which came to define his work as a fine furniture maker. The mildly dyslexic designer embraced futurism in the early 1970s with gawdy, bulbous, curved structures, desperate to topple the establishment – which for a designer at that…
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