THE BEST OF SCOTTISH BOOKS

The Great Tapestry of Scotland is one of the most ambitious community arts projects ever undertaken. The brainchild of bestselling author Alexander McCall Smith, historian Alistair Moffat and artist Andrew Crummy, it was created by a team of over a thousand volunteer stitchers between 2012 and 2013, who cumulatively spent more than 50,000 hours on the project. At 143 metres, it is twice the length of the Bayeux Tapestry, and its 160 panels features key moment from over 8,500 of Scottish history.This book features a selection of drawings featuring complete panels as well as details by Andrew Crummy, all specially adapted to allow colouring enthusiasts to share in this remarkable work of art.

Collecting the entirety of Morrison s epic saga, this New 52 era Superman omnibus celebrates and explores new facets of the Superman mythos. The compelling and deliberate Superman stories in this collection showcase his quintessential character and determination in a world that doesn t know what to make of him. A milestone in The New 52, this omnibus is jam-packed with action, adventure, shocking secrets, parallel Earths, deadly encounters with the Anti-Superman Army, Brainiac, Metal-zero and so much more! Collects Action Comics #0-18 and Action Comics Annual #1.

Against the frightening backdrop of World War II, a young Scottish woman took ten children by ship through the waters of the Atlantic from Scotland to South Africa, where she set up a home for them called Bairnshaven. An unusual portrayal of motherhood, nuclear family and love, Marjorie’s story comes to life through diary pages, letters, telegrams and photographs. This true story is a fresh take on the role that women played during the war, highlighting the strength and courage shown, and focusing on hope and unconditional kindness.

‘Hoist the Black Pennant!’A bitter taste rose in my throat and I thought I might be sick, as that hideous black flag crept to the top of the main mast.Stromness, Orkney, 1796When orphan Innes is plucked from poverty by Captain John Fullarton, he is grateful to begin a new and better life at sea aboard The Finmurray. But when a storm destroys their ship, their fortunes change for the worse and Innes is suddenly-and unwillingly-thrust into a bloodthirsty life as a pirate, with no way to escape…Based on true events, The Black Pennant tells the story of the rise and fall of one of Scotland’s lesser-known pirates and a young boy’s struggle to save him.

‘Its plot twists and turns . . . Fascinating’ The Times’Addictive’ iWHO IS TO BLAME WHEN NO ONE IS INNOCENT?There’s a heatwave in Glasgow and the drugs trade is booming. The whole force is searching for missing thirteen-year-old Alice Kelly. All except Harry McCoy, who has been taken off the case after a run-in with the boss, and is instead sent alone to investigate the death of rock-star Bobby March, who has just overdosed in the Royal Stuart hotel.The papers want blood. The force wants results. McCoy has a hunch. But does he have enough time?

Rock-a-Bye Rumpus is a delightful collection of sweet and fun action poems for the very young, specially chosen by bestselling author, Julia Donaldson and beautifully illustrated by Sebastien Braun.This gorgeous gift book and accompanying audio CD is made up of seven charming sections, including ‘Fingers, Toes and Faces’, ‘Hop, Skip and Jump’ and ‘Tea, Bath and Bed’ – each featuring much-loved classic rhymes such as Incy Wincy Spider and Hush, Little Baby as well as carefully selected poems from contemporary poets, including brand new poems Julia Donaldson herself. With irresistible illustrations from bestselling illustrator, Sebastien Braun, Rock-a-Bye Rumpus is sure to become a firm favourite and a must-have for every child.

Lanarkshire is the largest of Scotland’s counties – stretching from the ancient burghs of Govan and Glasgow, through coalfields, battle-grounds, rich rural heritage, industrial heartlands, all the way to the lead, silver and gold mines of Leadhills. Home to over one fifth of Scotland’s population this immense county is naturally abundant in folk customs and stories.The Hogback Stones of Govan Parish Church reveal an ancient seat of religion and civilization. Glasgow Cathedral is home to stories of Saint Mungo and the pagan Celtic royalty he helped convert to Christianity. A myriad of myths and legends are uncovered along the River Clyde as it flows from its source in South Lanarkshire through the county. This unique collection of tales includes William Wallace’s fight for freedom, the Clydesdale Horses which ploughed the corn fields of Britain and the New World, and plenty of supernatural happenings.

Hit Scotland’s can’t-miss sights, bites, and history in two weeks or less with Rick Steves Best of Scotland!* Expert advice from Rick Steves on what’s worth your time and money*Two-day itineraries covering Edinburgh, Glasgow, St. Andrews, the Highlands, and the Isle of Skye*Rick’s tips for beating the crowds, skipping lines, and avoiding tourist traps*The best of local culture, flavours, and haunts, including walking tours through the most interesting neighbourhoods and museums*Trip planning strategies like how to link destinations and design your itinerary, what to pack, where to stay, and how to get around*Over 80 full-colour maps and vibrant photosExperience the magic of Scotland for yourself with Rick Steves Best of Scotland!Planning a longer trip? Rick Steves Scotland is the classic, in-depth guide to spending more than two weeks exploring the country.

Over the centuries, one by one, Britain’s most formidable wild animals have fallen to the thoughtless march of humankind. A war on predators put paid to our lynxes, wolves and bears, each hunted relentlessly until the last of them was killed. Only our wildcats lived on.The Scottish wildcat’s guile and ferocity are the stuff of legend. No docile pet cat, this, but a cunning and shadowy animal, elusive to the point of invisibility, but utterly fearless when forced to fight for its life. Those who saw one would always remember its beauty – the cloak of dense fur marked with bold tiger stripes, the green-eyed stare and haughty sneer, and the broad, banded tail whisking away into the forest’s gloom.Driven to the remnants of Scotland’s wilderness, the last few wildcats now face the most insidious danger of all as their domesticated cousins threaten to dilute their genes into oblivion. However, the wildest of cats has friends and goodwill behind it. This book tells the story of how the wildcat of the wildwood became the endangered Scottish wildcat, of how it once lived and lives now, and of how we – its greatest enemy – are now striving to save it in its darkest hour.

The bestselling picture book What the Ladybird Heard by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks has been adapted into a special story play for World Book Day 2021 – so you can join in the fun!Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len are two crafty robbers with a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. But little do they know that the tiniest, quietest creature of all has overheard their plot, and she has a plan of her own . . .The first book in the brilliantly funny What the Ladybird Heard series has been adapted by author Julia Donaldson into a fun and easy-to-read story play, with bright and distinctive illustrations by Lydia Monks. With a page of hints and tips for how to perform the story, The What the Ladybird Heard Story Play is perfect for reading aloud, sharing with friends and family, acting out and even putting on your very own play!

Rock-a-Bye Rumpus is a delightful collection of sweet and fun action poems for the very young, specially chosen by bestselling author, Julia Donaldson and beautifully illustrated by Sebastien Braun.This gorgeous gift book and accompanying audio CD is made up of seven charming sections, including ‘Fingers, Toes and Faces’, ‘Hop, Skip and Jump’ and ‘Tea, Bath and Bed’ – each featuring much-loved classic rhymes such as Incy Wincy Spider and Hush, Little Baby as well as carefully selected poems from contemporary poets, including brand new poems Julia Donaldson herself. With irresistible illustrations from bestselling illustrator, Sebastien Braun, Rock-a-Bye Rumpus is sure to become a firm favourite and a must-have for every child.

This is a new edition of the bestselling guide to this increasingly popular pursuit. Scotland has the best-maintained records and facilities of any country in the world for undertaking family research, and now that the National Archives of Scotland are available online they can be consulted by anyone from whatever country.Tracing Your Scottish Ancestors is the National Archives’ official guide and is written in an accessible style from the unique perspective of a custodian of the records. It details all the latest internet developments, including a chapter on family history on the web. It also points to more traditional resources, explaining step by step how to research records of births, marriages and wills.

This new edition brings a fresh perspective on Stevenson’s dark, celebrated evocation of duality: polite society undermined by the weakness deep within itself.Three of Stevenson’s other dark tales reveal him to be a shrewd and skillful storyteller – ‘The Body Snatcher’, ‘The Pavilion on the Links’, ‘The Story of a Lie’.Flame Tree Collector’s Editions present the foundations of speculative fiction, authors without whom the imaginative literature of the twentieth century would not exist, bringing the best and most influential writers into a striking and collectable library. Each book features a new introduction, a short biography and a glossary of Literary, Gothic and Victorian terms.

The eleventh book in the Sunday Times-bestselling Inspector McLean series, from one of Scotland’s most celebrated crime writers.

The charred remains of an elderly woman are discovered in a burned-out game-keepers cottage, hidden away in woodland to the west of Edinburgh. Clearly no accidental fire, Detective Inspector Tony McLean suspects that neither is this simply a grim arson attack. There is far more to the victim than her humble surroundings might suggest, and something ritualistic to her horrific murder.

Nor will it be the only case of death by fire that Tony and his team will be faced with. This is only the beginning, and with such evil clouding the air, Tony begins to wonder what else will burn . . .

Praise for James Oswald:

‘The new Ian Rankin’ Daily Record

‘Creepy, gritty and gruesome’ Sunday Mirror

‘Crime fiction’s next big thing’ Sunday Telegraph

A Buchanan brother finds a love to treasure in this scintillating historical romance from New York Times bestselling author Lynsay Sands…After escaping from the English soldiers who attacked her home and imprisoned her in a dungeon, Lady Elysande de Valance is grateful for the rugged Scots who are escorting her to safety in the Highlands. Even with danger dogging their every step, she hadn’t expected to welcome the strong comforting embrace of their leader, Rory Buchanan. They say he’s a healer, but she finds the heat of his touch does so much more…Let his brothers get married-Rory is too busy tending to the sick to be bothered with wooing a bride. But when he is tasked with accompanying a family friend’s “treasure” to the Highlands, he is surprised to learn the treasure is a beautiful woman on the run-and even more surprised to discover bruises hidden by her veil. Rory makes it his mission to tend to her injuries and protect her, but the thought of losing her makes him realize that perhaps it is his heart that is most in need of healing…

Born and raised in Scotland, Graeme Taylor has spent most of his life exploring this rugged and beautiful country, discovering first-hand the natural larder of the nation. A passionate home cook, he is inspired by the rich food and drink landscape of his homeland, always remaining committed to fresh, seasonal, local produce. Graeme’s ethos is to treat Scottish cuisine with respect and the minimum of fuss, making recipes instinctive and easy to follow, while allowing the produce to remain the primary focus. He seeks to bring heritage recipes to life with a contemporary feel, celebrate the cosmopolitan nature of the cuisine and highlight some of the historical influences on Scotland’s food landscape.A Scots Larder started out as an online blog in 2011 as Graeme began a tentative journey going beyond his kitchen table to share flavours and traditions of Scottish cuisine with anyone who would care to take the time to read. Quickly amassing a large group of online followers, this book is a collection of the blog’s seven years with the recipes, the photos and a little bit of the havering. A natural conclusion to the A Scots Larder journey, the book boasts an eclectic range of recipes, both traditional well-kent favourites, some with a twist, and exciting new ideas to try. Graeme has included hearty soups, robust meat and game dishes, fish, seafood, interesting side dishes, mouth-watering deserts and plenty of comfort food to provide for all tastes. And all using the very finest of Scottish ingredients. Best of all, you don’t have to be a professional chef to make Graeme’s recipes, so get cooking and enjoy!

It is the Swinging Sixties and Kelvin Walker has moved from Scotland to London to make his fortune. Through his wanton ambition, a megalomania surfaces that is unrelieved by his insensitive attempts at friendship and romance. Yet is he all bad, or are the true villains the establishment figures who he tricks and deceives? And, ultimately, does it matter?Gray’s twist on the follies of religion, the media and the imperial British centre is as relevant now as ever.

A cache of over 100 gold, silver and other items, the richest collection of rare and unique Viking-age objects ever found in Britain or Ireland, was unearthed by a metal detectorist in 2014.A large fundraising campaign ensured that what has come to be known as ‘the Galloway Hoard’ was saved for the nation.Having lain undiscovered since the beginning of the 10th century, it now provides an extremely rare opportunity to research and reveal many lost aspects of the Viking Age.There is a chance to see the treasure at the National Museum of Scotland 18 February – 18 October 21. The exhibition will subsequently go on tour to Kirkcudbright, Aberdeen and Dundee.The accompanying book places the hoard in a wider historical context and showcases the conservation and research work currently being undertaken to understand the hoard and its secrets.

‘The most vivid evocation of Bessie Smith I have ever read’ – Ian Carr, BBC Music

‘[Bessie Smith] showed me the air and taught me how to fill it … she’s the reason I started singing, really’ – Janis Joplin

Bessie Smith: singer, icon, pioneer.

Bessie Smith was born in Tennessee in 1894. Orphaned by the age of nine, she sang on street corners before becoming a big name in travelling shows. In 1923 she made her first recording for a new start-up called Columbia Records. It sold 780,000 copies, making her a star. Smith’s life was notoriously difficult: she drank pints of ‘bathtub gin’, got into violent fist fights, spent huge sums of money and had passionate love affairs with men and women. She once single-handedly fought off a chapter of the Ku Klux Klan.

As a young black girl growing up in Glasgow, Jackie Kay found in Bessie someone with whom she could identify and who she could idolise. In this remarkable book Kay mixes biography, fiction, poetry and prose to create an enthralling account of an extraordinary life.

‘The most vivid evocation of Bessie Smith I have ever read’ – Ian Carr, BBC Music’

[Bessie Smith] showed me the air and taught me how to fill it … she’s the reason I started singing, really’ – Janis Joplin

Bessie Smith: singer, icon, pioneer.

Bessie Smith was born in Tennessee in 1894. Orphaned by the age of nine, she sang on street corners before becoming a big name in travelling shows. In 1923 she made her first recording for a new start-up called Columbia Records. It sold 780,000 copies, making her a star. Smith’s life was notoriously difficult: she drank pints of ‘bathtub gin’, got into violent fist fights, spent huge sums of money and had passionate love affairs with men and women. She once single-handedly fought off a chapter of the Ku Klux Klan.

As a young black girl growing up in Glasgow, Jackie Kay found in Bessie someone with whom she could identify and who she could idolise. In this remarkable book Kay mixes biography, fiction, poetry and prose to create an enthralling account of an extraordinary life.