The Highlands

In a new edition of this classic book, introduced by the world-renowned Gaelic poet Sorley Maclean, the late Calum I. Maclean, a Gaelic-speaking Highlander, interprets the traditional background, culture and ways of life of his native country. Calum’s formal training in folk culture and the depth of his local knowledge make this book truly outstanding – it is written by a Highlander from the inside. Many books on the Highlands have been penned by outsiders with an uncritical appreciation of the scenery and only the most superficial knowledge of the Gaelic language and culture. By contrast, Maclean brought informed attitudes and sympathetic opinions. He was concerned not so much with places, beauty spots and scenery as with the Highlanders in their own self-created environment. He writes in terms of individuals and suggests reasons why Highland culture is unique in the world – it is something that, if lost, can never be recovered or recreated.

Reviews of The Highlands

"One of the most evocative and perceptive accounts of the Highlands ever written" — James Hunter "… unique among general books on this subject, not only by reason of its width of knowledge, but also because it presents Highland history and the contemporary scene uncompromisingly from the point of view of a Gaelic-speaking Highlander" — Basil Megaw, first Director of the School of Scottish Studies, University of Edinburgh "A great book" — Sean O Suilleabhain, Irish Folklore Commission "An entertaining look at what lies behind the Highlands" Belfast News "Bha tuigse agus gradh agus smior na Gaidhlig aig Calum Iain MacGhillEathain, agus 'se seo leabhar cho math 's cho inntinnach 's a chaidh riamh a sgriobhadh mu'n Ghaidhealtachd" — Ruaraidh MacThomais