Ok, so I had wanted to do something like this for some time. This is the first of a series of pieces called “The Geek DreamPacker” where I will be featuring books and films inspired by the countries I visited. For this first article, I will be talking about the best books and movies about Scotland.
Whenever I am travelling to a new country, I like to surround myself with some stories that took place there. It makes the site much more interesting and it also inspires me to go to some of the locations that the characters visit in the book or movie. I tried to leave out of the most common ones and give you guys some not-so-typical suggestions (with some exceptions, of course). So, don’t forget to let me know which books and movies about Scotland you like the most!
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Books about Scotland
1. Candles in the Woods – Alexandra Manners
I promise you, you won’t find this one in any other list of books and movies about Scotland. This is a very weird book that I found hidden in my mum’s old bookshelf, but I immediately fell in love with it! Candles in the Woods is a dark mystery with a bit of romance that takes place in the Scottish Highlands.
Summary: Helen Comyn grew up a servant’s child on the Grant family’s estate. However, she never expected that she would become an important heiress and return to Gallowmerry as a lady. Helen adopts a new identity to be accepted by the Grants as an equal, but she quickly realises that there is something mysterious lurking among the place. Lucy, the youngest daughter, seems to be cursed by her past. She is a grown woman, but, somehow, still acts like a young child. Lennox, the renegade son, is dangerously attractive but so is Duan, the heir of Gallowmerry who is tormented by the war and almost in the verge of craziness. Also, there seems to be the ghost of a child cursing the place and driving the inhabitants mad.
This book has a bit of Jane Austen classic charm, with much more palpable sexual tension (and some subtly steamy scenes) and a bit of a supernatural flair. It is also a short and addictive book that can be read in a just one evening (especially with some wine included).
2. Jack and the Cuckoo-Clock Heart– Mathias Malzieu
If there is something I love about Mathias Malzieu is how he seems to be writing a children’s book, but he is actually delivering something darker and deeper.
Summary: Jack and the Cuckoo-Clock Heart seems like a fairy tale at the beginning. Jack was born with a frozen heart, so a midwife replaced it with a cuckoo clock. He can live a normal life as long as he doesn’t touch the hands of the clock, he manages his temper and he never falls in love. Obviously, as in any good story, he breaks all of the rules and decides to travel half of Europe in search of a mysterious singer. I am not going to spoil the end, but it gives a pretty good look at the complicated human nature. Also, since Malzieu is random like that, the story features some characters like George Méliès and Jack the Ripper, because… Why not? Also, the first part of the book takes place in Edinburgh and then they move to Andalusia.
This is a quick, quirky, funny book that also has a great soundtrack, because its writer is in a band and composed some songs inspired by it that were then included in a film adaptation.
3. The White Mare – Jules Watson
This is another one of my unusual favourite books. If you like historical fiction, war stories and just a bit of romance, this should be a must-read. The author is not Scottish, she is actually Australian, but we do not discriminate. She writes about Scottish culture, so there is no reason not to include her in our list of books and movies about Scotland.
Summary: The White Mare takes place during the Roman invasion of Alba (now Scotland) where governor Agricola has decided to send troops to the north of the island. Rhiann is a Scottish priestess that has been forced into a marriage with Eremon, a fugitive Irish prince that arrived to Rhiann’s village after a shipwreck. They form a military alliance to defend the tribe against the Romans, but they need the help of the rest of Alba’s clans so they travel around the country to search for allies.
This book provides a lot of historical information about the conquest of Alba, but it also has drama, mystery and (I must confess I love this) a bit of magic and Celtic mythology. It is a big book, so if you like to binge-read, this is your chance. At the beginning I thought it was just one volume, but then I discovered it is actually a trilogy, so it will keep you occupied for a couple of weeks (or days, if you are obsessive, like me).
4. Outlander – Diana Gabaldon
When I was doing some research, almost everyone agreed that I should include Outlander among the best books and movies about Scotland. It is hard to classify Outlander in a single genre. Some people say it is historical fiction, some others that it is Science fiction, there are the occasional critics that argue it is just a romance novel, but I like to think it is a mix of all of these.
Summary: Claire Randall is a nurse that worked in the Second World War. She and her husband decide to take a holiday in Inverness and she ends up travelling back to the past when she touches a stone circle hidden in the woods. Now she finds herself in 1776, at he verge of the Jacobite rebellion, and she has to find her way back to her own time. However, during her journey, Claire becomes an involuntary guest of clan McKenzie, where she is held captive because she is suspected to be an English spy. There she meets Jamie Fraser and… Well, everything starts to complicate a little bit.
This is an easy to read book, but it is also big and has 7 sequels, so it requires a bit of a commitment. Nevertheless, it has really relatable, flawed characters, lots of history, time travel, steamy explicit sex scenes and plenty of nail-biting moments. I haven’t finished the entire series, but I love carrying this book when I am travelling. I never get bored.
Movies about Scotland
1. Not another happy ending
This is not a common title when you are talking about books and movies about Scotland. I found this movie during a weekend that I decided to become a twenty-something grannie and stay in all night. I love Karen Gillian, so I decided to give it a got and I was really pleased with my choice.
Summary: Basically, Jane Lockhart is an aspiring writer with a miserable life that has a manuscript no one wants to publish. One day, a tiny publishing house decides to give her a chance. surprisingly, the book turns out to be a big success. Jane is finally happy, she is famous, she has a new boyfriend… And she needs to write another one to finish her contract. But there is a small problem: Jane cannot write when she is happy, so her desperate editor decides to make her life miserable again in order to get her to finish the second book.
This is an indie, sweet, comical and slightly romantic film perfect when you want to watch something light, but not mainstream. It has a good cast and amazing costume design. What else can you ask?
2. Harry Potter
I know, I said I tried to look for not-so-typical options, but it seemed wrong not to include Harry Potter in a post of books and movies about Scotland. I debated a lot trying to decide if I should include it in the books’ list as well, but in the end, I think you can appreciate the beauty of Scotland in the movies better than in the books. The plot is a different story, though.
Summary: Do I really need to do this? I don’t think there’s someone out there who doesn’t know what Harry Potter is about. But just in case, we are talking about the kid with glasses that does magic and tries to defeat a noseless guy.
Although I love the saga, I do think that not all of the movies are great. However, The Prisoner of Azkaban has amazing shots of the Scottish landscape. Also, the Deathly Hallows part 1 and 2 also feature some really interesting locations (not all in Scotland, though). I will leave it opt to you, but you can always tell me in the comments which of the eight films is your favourite.
3. Outlander
I feel like I am cheating because I also included the book. But, unlike many other adaptations, I think the producers did an amazing job with Outlander!
Summary: The story is the same; a Second World War nurse goes to a Scottish stone circle and travels back to 1776. This is the time when the Jacobites want to rebel against the English government. However, although the book has more details, the show was put together brilliantly and it really manages to keep you glued to your telly. The Scottish locations are breath-taking, the rhythm is great and the visual incentive is not so bad either (Catriona Balfe and Sam Heughan are both easy on the eye). My mum and I barely slept when we were watching it for several days!
Some people call it “a feminist take on Game of Thrones”, although I wouldn’t agree completely with that statement. It does have political plots, war and nudity, as well as a female perspective. But overall I think the angle is different from GoT. Equally enjoyable, though. It has a few Emmys nominations and there are several seasons out by now, so it is perfect for binge-watching!
4. Filth
My boyfriend thought my list was kind of girly and since I did not want to include Trainspotting, he suggested Filth instead. According to Conor, Filth shows a loosely exaggerated view of real Scotland. Drugs violence sex and sheer mental behaviour in 90 minutes. Plus James McCavoy. But that’s just me.
Summary: A corrupt police officer, with sociopathic traits and an alcohol and drug addiction is to investigate the murder of a Japanese exchange student. The case could win him a promotion to become a Detective Inspector, so he has to ruin the chances for his colleagues. However, the case triggers some deep emotional turmoil and he starts loosing the grip of reality.
This is definitely a denser, more complicated film. The story is from Irvine Welsh, the same guy from Trainspotting. This way you get an idea about the vibe of the movie. The cinematography is amazing and it depicts a different side of Scotland. Darker, but still super interesting!
No, sorry, I won’t include Braveheart. There are many books and movies about Scotland, so we can get by without it.
What did you think about my list? And, more importantly, which are some of your favourite books and movies about Scotland? Don’t forget to mention it in the comments and let me know if you have read/watched some of my suggestions!
I guess I’ll see you on the road.
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I love posts about travel and reading! Lots of great books to read and films to watch about Scotland! I love the Outlander TV series too – makes me want to go to Skye!
I am glad you enjoyed the post! Outlander is just my new obsession haha! I past through a couple of locations when I went to the Highlands, but I didn’t manage to go to Skye. But one day!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
This is a great and very inspiring list! I don’t read as much fiction as I’d like to, so this has given me some much needed help! I’ve heard so many good things about Outlander, the series, so it’s nice to know there’s actually a book! I’ll definitely add this to my list.
Outlander is great! A bit dramatic, but nice to binge-watch (or read). Glad to help with your list =)
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
Gosh. I’ve read and seen Filth but that’s it…and I was born in Scotland. Whoops. My dad has been telling me to watch outlander for a while though so maybe this is the push I need.
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Haha that is classic. I haven’t seen that many Mexican films either. And I would definitely recommend Outlander, I am still to finish the newest book, but, so far it hasn’t disappointed.
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
Outlander just had to make the list 🙂 The hubby and I also read and watch before going places. It’s always fun to immerse yourself before you get there. I had the White Mare on my must-read list already, now I’m moving it to the top as my next book 🙂
Cool! That makes me feel like I’m not alone haha You had the White Mare on your list already? Amazing! I keep trying to convince my friends to read it because I need someone to talk to about it!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
I fully agree about Outlander, a watchers or reader picks up plenty of hints and tips about Bonnie prince Charlie and the war at that time. Watching Braveheart is another good film and the Rob Roy film is a not to be missed as well. Where ever your going, learn as much as possible before going, that’s one of my travel mottos.
That’s a great travel motto! A lot of people have mentioned Braveheart and I do think it’s a classic. I just didn’t include it because I thought most people know about this film or have watched it in the past, but now I’m thinking I should have included it haha. Thanks a lot for your comment, Vickie!
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Thanks for the info. Now, Scotland is on my list 🙂
I am glad to hear. You won’t regret it =)
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
Ahh! Scotland is so beautiful. Im hoping to get out there in the next year or two
It is one of my favourite places in the world <3 I hope you can make it! It has a lot to offer.
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
I lived in Edinburgh for 16 years and so I consider myself adopted Scottish. This is a great list, and some unusual items. My book list would have included Trainspotting (or any of the Irvine Welch books), and Shallow Grave in the films, not forgetting of course, Local Hero or The Wicker Man.
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Irvine Welsh is amazing! I did think about including Trainspotting, but I thought it was already in many other lists. I haven’t watched Shallow Grave or The Wicker Man, but I will definitely have a look! Thanks for your recommendations, Dan!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
I love reading and watching things about a place before I get there! This list is awesome, and I’ll definitely be referencing it again if I ever head back to Scotland 🙂
I’m glad to see I’m not the only one who does that =D I hope you can make it back to Scotland, I’d love to go back any day ^^
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
I’ve been only to Edinburgh! Yet to explore the highlands which is, I believe, the essence of Scotland… Hope I’ll get a chance in future!
That said, I’m not a big reader, esp., I don’t read fiction! Left that long back! Wouldn’t mind watching a couple movies though. Gonna check out Outlander movie soon…
I love Edinburgh, but the Highlands stole my heart <3 Both are amazing in different ways. Outlander is great, as I said, even though it is originally a book, the adaptation is very good =)
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
I am not much of a reader to be honest but I read Harry Potter of course, when I then was in Scotland I got some flashbacks. It is such a great added value!
I think you are well set with Harry Potter =) Although it is fantasy, I think it depicts British culture in a very interesting way!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
Sad that I used to be such a reader, and I’m not anymore. This list has inspired me. I do like to research the history of the places I visit, but I hadn’t thought about finding books or movies about the country. Outlander is one I may read even if I’m not traveling to Scotland soon!
I am so glad it inspired you! Outlander was one of my favourite series a couple of years ago. I haven’t gotten myself to read the last book because I don’t want it to end. It can get a bit challenging because the books are huge, but it is very enjoyable! Thanks for reading, Jamie!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
I’m clearly not as well read as I thought as I’d never heard of any of these. I do think books can inspire us to visit places but likewise places can inspire us to read more books, when I was in Cambodia I started reading loads of books about the area as I wanted to understand it better
Oh I am pretty sure you are pretty well read. I just like weird books haha I still need to read a bunch of the classics. I would love to read more about Cambodia even if I am not visiting it. Looks like such an interesting place!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
I just visited Edinburgh for the first time last year and have been dreaming about going back to Scotland and visiting the highlands ever since. Candles in the Wood would just fuel that desire even more I’m sure. And I’m not really a HP fan but would honestly watch the movies just for the Scotland scenes haha
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I think you would love the Highlands, Diana =) They are so magical! Candles in the Woods is a book I would recommend blindly. If you get the chance, it is worth the read. Regarding HP, I get it haha, when it comes to the series you either love them or not so much. Luckily there are many other films about Scotland. Thanks for reading!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
This is such a wonderful idea! I hadn’t really thought, but this makes perfect sense. Really gets you in the mood for your visit. I’ve been meaning to pick up Outlander actually…
Thanks, Kristina! Yes, I love doing that before I visit a new place. And Outlander is great if you like long book series with lots of character development!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
To be honest I don’t think I have ever read a book with the action happening in Scotland and if I have seen a movie I probably didn’t identify it, except for Trainspotting. I don’t think I have seen Not another happy ending and it sounds like a movie that I would love to watch. The plot is interesting as in real life not many people can actually write when they are happy, can they? All the big masterpieces have been written when the authors were sad. 🙂
I really liked that movie =) You are right, most artist’s inspiration comes from sadness and this film covers that subjet in a light, fun manner. I would recommend it for a quiet weekend with some snacks =)
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Scotland: What to read and watch before your trip
I do exactly the same thing! I always read books (fictional or not) on the countries I’m about to visit. Makes it a bit fun visiting the destinations talked about in the books!
Yaaaay! So cool to know other people do it too! It just make me feel closer to the place, instead of just stepping into a new city I know nothing about.
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I wish I had this list 2 years ago!! All I knew before my trip to Scotland was Braveheart and Outlander TV show!
Those are great starting points =) Besides, it is algo a good excuse to go back =D
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This is a great start. I like your series because books have been my window to a lot of places. I have read books and then visited those places. Its fun to relive some of the moments from the movies too. This will come out to be very handy when I will travel to Scotland. I didnt know some of the parts of Harry Potter were shot in Scotland.
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That is great, Manjulika! Books are my windows as well. Cheapest travel agency in the world =) Let me know what did you think about Scotland when you make it there =)
Dann Castillo recently posted…Everything you need to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and The Golden Circle:
Scotland is one of my favourite countries in the world. But unfortunately I haven’t read many books or watched many movies on this beautiful part of the world. I loved Outlander and Braveheart.
It is an amazing country indeed =) And you are still on time to check some cool material about Scotland if you want. Outlander and Braveheart are great starting points =)
Dann Castillo recently posted…Everything you need to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and The Golden Circle:
Scotland is an astonishing travel destination and these suggestions are simply awesome, Dann! I am adding those boos on my to-do list. 🙂
I’m glad you liked them, Agness! Let me know what did you think when you read the books =) Safe travels!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Everything you need to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and The Golden Circle:
There is a great film called Angel’s Share which is directed by Ken Loach and is descibed as Scotland’s answer to the Full Monty. I’m a big Outlander fan but The Writers’ Museum just at the top of the Royal Mile is a really nice place to visit to get a feel for classic Scottish fiction and poetry.
Hey, Lorna! I just saw the trailer and it looks great! I am definitely going to have a look this weekend. Looks fun and very Scottish too! I loved the Writer’s Museum! I spent there longer than I intended, but the place was so charming that consumed most of my day. You are right, you really get a feel of true Scottish fiction. It is also free! Loved that part too. Thanks for the recommendation!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Everything you need to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and The Golden Circle:
Girl, you make a book/movies list and you win me over! And when you started the first one saying it’s weird, doneze, I’m bought hahaha Scotland has been in my bucket list for ages and recently my mom has said she also wants to go, so we might be planning to go next year or so! Thanks for the tips and also great blog, Dann!
Hahaha, thanks, Juliana! What can I say? I’m weird, I like weird things. Also, I need more people to read that book so I can have someone to talk to 😛 On a not-so-selfish note, I think you would love Scotland! It’s super charming and full of oldie book shops! If you do go, let me know if you liked it! Thanks for reading!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Everything you need to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and The Golden Circle:
Big fan of Outlander and some of the locations are magical.
One of my favourite films is Sunshine on Leith. Another great way to get a fix of Edinburgh (even though I only live in Perth).
My other half would say Highlander is one of his top films. For me the scenery and soundtrack is spot on. However, the story leaves a lot to be desired (in my opinion).
Oh my, just checked the trailer for Sunshine on Leith and it looks super cool! It is indeed a great portrait of Edinburgh (for what I saw on the scenes). I’m definitely adding this to my to-watch list =D I think Perth is an amazing place! I just passed by it while I was travelling around Scotland, but I really regret I did not stay longer. I think Highlander is definitely a classic. I do agree the story has its faults, but it is still enjoyable. Thanks for the recommendations, Melanie!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Everything you need to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and The Golden Circle:
Anyone who’s interested in Scotland would find this list extremely helpful. Personally, I would check out everything on the list since I really find Scotland a nice place to visit someday. Thank for sharing!
Thanks a lot for reading!
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I lived in Scotland for nearly 10 years and found Outlander (after moving down to Yorkshire a few years ago) via the tv series on amazon prime, that was before I read the books. I am just totally and shamelessly obsessed by it 🙂 heading back up to the highlands this summer and cannot wait !
Yay! Then you can get my obsession as well! I haven’t read the last book yet because I don’t want it to finish haha, but at least we are going to enjoy the TV series for a while. I am sure you will love the Highlands even more now. I passes through some of the locations they used while I visited last year and I became a complete fangirl. Beware of the stone circles 😛
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The Decoy Bride (movie). Stumbled across this and while it’s a stereotypical chick flick, I really loved it.
Oh it is Doctor Who! haha and Bridget Jones’ friend! This looks like something I would definitely watch during a quiet weekend. I am so doing it next Saturday! Thanks for the suggestion!!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Everything you need to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and The Golden Circle:
This was fun to read as I got to go to Scotland, but have only read Outlander.
Have you read The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley? I was only able to read it on my Kindle, but it is a wonderful historical romance and time travel novel set on the eastern coast near Aberdeen.
http://susannakearsley.com/wintersea.html
Thank you for your fun blog!
I just had a look at the summary and it looks very interesting. I just spent my Amazon gift card, but I am definitely going to add it to my to read list. I am not usually a fan of modern romance, but add the historical factor and I’m sold! Thanks so much for the suggestion!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Everything you need to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and The Golden Circle:
I’m lucky enough to live in the Highlands now so find this an interesting list. I definitely would have included The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie on the film choices though and maybe some Ian Rankin in the book list. And don’t forget the 007 movie Skyfall when you are driving through Glen Coe – you can just imagine Daniel Craig sitting next to you!
It’s amazing that you live in the Highlands! I am a bit jealous 😛 You know, I actually have a couple of Ian Ranking books on my shelf, but I haven’t had the chance to read them, so I was afraid to include them as suggestions since I don’t have an opinion yet. But as soon as I finish them, I’ll add them to the article =) And you are right, Skyfall had amazing scenes in Scotland too. Thanks for the suggestions!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Everything you need to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and The Golden Circle:
I was thinking of the same movie, and I have read most, if not all, of Ian Rankin’s books to get an insider’s look at Edinburgh where my daughter has been living with her husband for the last few years. Reading those books has given me a much better feel for the city and I’m quite comfortable getting around whenever I visit.
It’s one of the things I love the most about reading, it can really make you feel like you are in a different place. I think Edinburgh is a lovely city, so you are very lucky to get the chance to visit it from time to time!
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I love books, I love films, and Scotland might be one of my next destinations so this is just the right kind of reading material. I think a lot of UK films often get overlooked because of the mighty Hollywood, but the local industry is amazing and they do churn out some really good films. I really want to watch Not Another Happy Ending now, sounds interesting.
I do believe there are many amazing UK films out there that deserve more credit. Hopefully it’ll change soon enough. Hope you like Not Another Happy Ending. It’s light and a bit cheesy at times, but I loved it haha. Thanks for reading!
Dann Castillo recently posted…White privilege while travelling: my experience as a Latino woman
Another great movie about Scottish history is Stone of Destiny. It starts of a little slow at first I think, but gets very interesting. The movie is based on a true story. I went to Scotland two years ago and have been obsessed with all things Scottish ever since.
I haven’t watched it, but you made me very curious! I’ll look for it and check it out! Thanks a lot for the recommendation!
Dann Castillo recently posted…White privilege while travelling: my experience as a Latino woman
Thanks for the recommendations. I love the Outlander series and read the first one back in college. Your description is good except that it takes place in the 1740s not 1776.
Thanks a lot! I will correct it =) I love Outlander as well, found the books a while ago and they made me very happy!
Dann Castillo recently posted…White privilege while travelling: my experience as a Latino woman
Interesting reading – but I feel Brave Heart should be included.
Haha well I did mention it briefly. I did not include it because I feel a lot of people think of it when talking about Scottish films, so it really didn’t need my recommendation. Thanks for reading!
Dann Castillo recently posted…White privilege while travelling: my experience as a Latino woman
One of the best Scottish films I have seen is a gem called “Dear Frankie.” About a boy named Frankie, who writes to his father, who works on a ship that never comes to port. This father doesn’t exist…it’s a story that his mother made up. The mother takes the letters her son has written, reads them and she writes back pretending to be Frankie’s dad. Then one day, Frankie discovers that his “dad’s” ship is coming to port. His mother must now find someone to be Frankie’s father for a day. This story will touch your heart!
That sounds super interesting! I will definitely check it out. I always like to find new things to watch, so thanks a lot for the recommendation!
Dann Castillo recently posted…White privilege while travelling: my experience as a Latino woman
THE WHITE MARE <. If we really want to learn about Scotland we should read this book "with eyes wide open". If it's set during "the Roman invasion of Alba" we need to keep in mind that Rome & Alba never existed at the same time. The Roman Empire ceased to exist in 476 BC. The first mention of the land of Alba is in the mid-800s – it's first king (Donald I) died in 900 BC. – This may still be a very good read, just not so helpful if we want to know things "really" Scottish.
Hi, Suzi. Thanks for reading. Well, as in most historical fiction books, there are several things that don’t align with reality, however, the author is very clear about this parts and she explains all the differences between her story and the reality. Also, even though is not completely faithful to the truth, you can also learn many things about local traditions, their religion and even the language. Las time I went to Scotland and took an historical tour I found out I already knew many things thanks to the book, so I still think it’s a good way to learn more about the place.
Dann Castillo recently posted…White privilege while travelling: my experience as a Latino woman
Your list is great! But it is missing the best one – Dear Frankie. Takes place in Glasgow. Also stars Gerard Butler who is Scottish and grew up right outside of Glasgow – in Paisley.
I haven’t watched it yet! But I’ll make sure to add it to my list. I love Gerard Butler!
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Movie: Loch Ness with Joely Richardson and Ted Danson. Beautiful scenery.
Thanks for the suggestion! I love Loch Ness so it sounds like something I’d enjoy!
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SCRIBE by Brian Russell. Terrific novel taking place in Scotland. It will make you want to go there. Read the reviews on Amazon
Thanks a lot! I just read the reviews and it sounds amazing! I’ll order it on my next book purchase!
Dann Castillo recently posted…Best books and movies about Australia: What to read and watch before your trip
Great list – but how about adding Sunshine on Leith and Local Hero – oldies but loved them!
I have never heard of them! But I’ll definitely check them out! Oldies are great!
Dann Castillo recently posted…White privilege while travelling: my experience as a Latino woman
Hi! Great list, we are going to Scotland next year. Diana Gabaldon is one of my favorites but if I may..in book one she travels back to 1743. 1776 doesn’t happen until book 6. Thank you for the great list!
Thanks for noticing! I’ll edit it ASAP. I hope you enjoy your trip! Whereabouts in Scotland are you going?
Dann Castillo recently posted…White privilege while travelling: my experience as a Latino woman
Thank you for not including the travesty that is Braveheart. As a Scot born and raised in the village of Sir William Wallace’s birth- and on his true story- that film sickened Scots. Just come to Scotland- even if you haven’t read books or seen films- you will love it anyway. Thank you for your list- I still haven’t seen Outlander yet, though.
Haha thanks for saying that, Agnes! I received a lot of complaints for not including Braveheart, but I think you’re right! I can’t wait to go back to Scotland, It’s one of my favourite countries!
Dann Castillo recently posted…White privilege while travelling: my experience as a Latino woman
I love the list that you posted and I am definitely going to read a lot more than I have already. I have a couple of obsessions☺️. One is Harry Potter, incredible series, and I too am obsessed with Outlander. The books are incredible!!!💜💜💜. Just a point of reference, Claire doesn’t go back to 1776, she went back to 1743 in the first book. I just wanted to let you know. Thanks for the list!
Thanks for your comment, Raven! Hope you find some interesting suggestions. You’re right, I got the date wrong, but I’ll edit it ASAP. Thanks for noticing!
Dann Castillo recently posted…White privilege while travelling: my experience as a Latino woman