Reviews
The secret lives of plants in our society
We don’t often consider the impact that plants have had on human history, but this book shows how they have been woven into society for centuries. From medicine, through nutrition to murder and construction, there’s a story to be told for all living and growing things. I particularly enjoyed the tale of how the Scottish…
Read MoreWhen composer Mendelssohn came to Scotland
As was the wont of wealthy young gentlemen of the time, the composer Felix Mendelssohn went on a grand journey. This book has a subtitle of The Mendelssohns in Scotland and Italy, and tells how Felix’s journey brought him to Scotland, while his sister Fanny alighted in Italy. Using sketches, letters, paintings and captivating narrative…
Read MoreCelebrating the varied wildlife of Mull
You’re probably already well aware of the incredible biodiversity on the Isle of Mull. But if you’re looking for a book that weaves together the animals, landscapes and people of this incredible island, rather than informing you of the wingspan and preferred diet of the island’s resident white-tailed sea eagles, then this might be the…
Read MoreBe beside yourself with joy at The Deli Next Door
I’m a simple soul. That’s to say my mood depends almost entirely on the quality of food on offer. And right now, on a dreich January afternoon in Kelso, I find myself in high spirits thanks to Scott Hunter of The Deli Next Door. The name is a trifle misleading: this place is part deli,…
Read MoreA collection of stunning Scottish photography
Each year, a book is published to capture some of the most stunning photography in Scotland. Showcasing striking Scottish landscapes, creative urban views, dramatic weather, seasonal shots and rugged coasts, this year’s Scottish Landscape Photographer of the Year book is truly breathtaking. Each page, curated by Stuart Low – the photographer who launched the The…
Read MoreA celebration of a Clan Chief’s magnificent seat
Finlaystone is a large country estate in Renfrewshire, near Glasgow, seat of the current Chief of the Clan MacMillan. This book, created by six members of the MacMillan family, is the illustrated story of Finlaystone House and its owners – a tale that spans an incredible 30 generations. The impressive house and grounds is one…
Read MoreA gripping read that thrills to the very end
Master of crime Denzil Meyrick transports his readers to the urban gangland of the Scottish town of Paisley and the dark underworld of London. Packed with brutal crime, dysfunctional families and dark humour, follow gangland boss Zander Finn on his quest to right his wrongs, only to learn some life decisions can’t be undone. This…
Read MoreBringing the 6th century chaos around Iona to life
Island-Pilgrim is the third volume in the epic series The Chronicles of Iona. It brings to life the vivid world of 6th-century Scotland and Ireland, a world engrossed in bloody feuds and bitter factions. But with missions of peace and hopes of stability, the book follows the progressive struggle to shed the chaos of the…
Read MoreAn 18th century Scot’s power idea is now the future
It sounds like something from science fiction, but the story of a Scot who developed an idea for a spacecraft power source in the 18th century is entirely true. Inspired by a heat exchange engine stumbled upon in a London market, author Phillip Hills became fascinated by Robert Stirling’s 1816 invention which, a mere 200…
Read MoreA look at myths and legends of the British Isles
Storyland is a spellbinding illustrated mythology of Britain. It retells the stories of legends which define our history; from homeland and migration, to love and betrayal. Richly supported by primary sources, the book reimagines myths based around The Creation, Noah’s Arc, fallen angels and the founding of Britain, England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland, the birth…
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