Reviews
The bravery and sacrifice of brave Scot Jane Haining
The true story of Scottish heroine Jane Haining is a truly harrowing one. As matron of a Hungarian residential school that housed Jewish orphans, Jane protected them with all her might, refusing to flee the country in 1944 – a decision that ultimately led to her death. Her story of self-sacrifice is portrayed by Miller…
Read MoreThe general who led an incredibly military career
General Sir Ralph Abercromby led an extraordinary life – he twice served as an MP, was appointed governor of Trinidad, Commander-in-Chief of Ireland. He was highly respected by his troops and this in-depth, absorbing read covers the French Revolutionary Wars, a critical time in Europe’s tumultuous political history. Though it requires intense concentration, and with…
Read MoreMonsters and more in a book for the wee ones
For a child, there’s nothing scarier than a story with monsters – but they always lose in the end. Lea Taylor has tapped into traditional Scots stories of our beasties, and written some new tales which will terrify and entertain children in equal measure. With stories like The Greedy Trows of Orkney and Kelpie Capers,…
Read MoreSome exciting adventures set in the 1930s
The Gamekeeper’s Son is a real boys’ own adventure book from the heart of 1930s Morayshire. This delightful set of mini stories recounts the upbringing of author Ron Stewart, the son of a gamekeeper, and his adventures with his father, friends and local wildlife. With short, episodic chapters, we get an often comic account of…
Read MoreA fantastic book of living in the countryside
Never judge a book by its cover – but on this occasion we’re going to break the rules. This gorgeous front snap tells you everything you need to know about Johnny Scott’s remarkable publication. As reflected in his contented expression, Scott’s passion for rural life is deep-rooted. Explaining that ‘the seeds of [his] fascination with…
Read MoreThe essential viewpoints to see in Scotland
More than simply a catalogue of view indicators (which identify surrounding features in the landscape), 349 Views of Scotland is a celebration of the breath-taking sights across the country. It also tells the inspiring story of those who sought to make them understood. Following in the footsteps of 1938 mountaineer Ben Humble, David Squires has…
Read MoreCelebrating Caithness in the eyes of a poet
Described as a poet’s journey to the far north of Scotland, The Province of the Cat explores the wilderness of Caithness through the eyes of poet and playwright George Gunn. Looking at its landscape, people, culture and history, as well as the myths, folklore and fusion of Norse and Gaelic cultures, Gunn describes the truly…
Read MoreMagic and mystery await in The Shadow Keeper
With the rise of the Shadow Masks and their dark magic imminent, Moll Pecksniff must find the Amulet of Truth to stop the evil takeover. Accompanied by pet wildcat Gryff and best friends Alfie and Sid, Moll faces monsters, smugglers and ancient codes in her quest to save the Old Magic. Abi Elphinstone’s second instalment…
Read MoreA mix of storytelling, mystery and building
Ann Craig awaits her mill owner husband’s return on the dark and stormy night of 29 December 1879, in The Night He Left by Sue Lawrence. As she looks out from her window across to the River Tay, she sees the newly built iron rail bridge buckle and collapse, throwing the train he is travelling…
Read MoreThe ideal read when you’re going on holiday
When writer Paul Stewart heads to the Italian town of Montalcino to finish his book, it seems like the perfect escape in My Italian Bulldozer. On landing, however, things take a turn for the worse when he discovers his hired car is nowhere to be found. With no other cars available, it looks like Paul…
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