The relaxing power of going fishing

Award-winning novelist and journalist David Profumo’s latest book centres around the restorative power of being at one with nature, particularly while fishing. Those with a passion for fishing often talk of its therapeutic qualities, all-too-often triggering an eye-roll from those less enamoured of the pastime. Profumo, however, convinces even the most hesitant reader to acquaint…

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Looking to fight back against global warming

With a title that relates to the classic song Riders on the Storm by the Doors, this book immediately had my attention. However it is far from fun and games as it presents the seriousness of our situation and our rather pathetic fight against global warming. Despite the Coronavirus, Alastair McIntosh still deems global warming…

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Questions for humanity’s future through verse

Born in Ireland in 1970 and currently teaching at Aberdeen University, David Wheatley is a well-known Irish poet. His work has appeared in multiple anthologies including The Penguin Book of Irish Poetry. With many prizes and awards under his name, The President of Planet Earth is no exception to his successful streak. Wheatley brings us…

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A thriller taking a look at the Scottish oil industry

If you are interested in the pursuit of equality in the workplace but also have a mind for dark thrillers, political corruption, and corporate cover ups, this is the golden nugget. Black Blood follows the story of Danni, a corporate lawyer completing her traineeship before circumstances circling around an abusive partner force her out of…

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A gripping read that will keep youngsters happy

As a boy, I always loved the stories of Robert Louis Stevenson, Enid Blyton and Arthur Ransome, when young people became involved in the adult world. Somehow or other, the youngsters involved would manage to save the day, and stop the smugglers, the thieves, or whatever villainous plots the ne’er-do-wells had in mind. There’s an…

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Full programme for Piping Live! unveiled

The full suite of programmed activity for Glasgow’s Piping Live! festival has been unveiled, with a number of in-person shows confirmed to go ahead as part of the nine-day event. The world’s biggest piping festival will take a hybrid approach for 2021, combining performances at The National Piping Centre alongside a rich programme of online…

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Irvine Beach installation is completely sound

A captivating large-scale, environmental sound installation can be found on Irvine Beach. Created by Dutch duo, Strijbos and Van Rijswijk, the major free event will run from until Sunday 25 July, from noon-10.30pm. In 2021, Scotland continues to celebrate its coasts and waters with a programme of activities and events that will shine a spotlight…

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Grandfather’s notes make for a fascinating history

Historical discoveries are amazing things, especially if there’s a family connection. While canvassing for the Scottish independence referendum in 2014, MSP Neil Findlay made a discovery. Visiting the home that used to be his grandparents’, he was shown a plywood panel where John Jock Findlay, his grandfather, had written his life’s tale. Fascinated, Neil transcribed…

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On the buses for a look back at Fife transport

Public transport is something that most of us see on a regular basis. David Devoy is a devotee of buses, and his chronicles the independent bus operators that have been deployed in the Fife area in this book that will definitely grab enthusiasts of the transport. Devoy knows his subject, having written several books on…

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A tremendous read in a study of humans and nature

Peter Wohlleben is a German forester who has written several fascinating insights into the trees he works with. The best-selling author, whose previous works include the international success The Hidden Life of Trees, indulges in his life-long love of the wooded world. In his new book, drawing on new scientific discoveries, The Heartbeat of Trees…

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