A love of single malt whisky led to an interest in the history, and a fascination for the culture and people of Scotland. Some helpful and interesting books and videos are listed below.
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| Charles Rennie Mackintosh
by Wendy Kaplan (Editor)
1996
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My last evening on a visit to Scotland I met a young couple who took me into the world of Charles Rennie Macintosh (literally -- they lived in a Macintosh designed house). I was surprised that I didn't know about his work and set out to learn more.
Macintosh, an architect, designer, artist in the late 19th and early 20th centuries is best described as the Frank Lloyd Wright of Scotland, and no less important in his influence on contemporary architecture.
Highly recommended.
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| A History of Scotland
by Bruce Lenman, Geoffrey Parker, J. D. MacKie
1992
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This book is written as more of a story of Scotland than a history. It is well developed, interesting, captivating and exciting. Probably the finest history book I've ever read. Gives an incredible overview of Scotland, and explains why those Scots who have become expatriots love their country despite all of the problems they have had (Highland clearances). For anyone who has been to Scotland this is a great way to learn so much about the country, and their courageous and proud people. I recommend this very highly. An enthralling book to read.
(Review provided by an Amazon.com contributor)
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| A Traveler's History of Scotland
by Andrew Fisher
2000
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This is a succinct, yet informative guide to the history of Scotland. Written for the tourist with little background knowledge of Scotland, the author takes the reader through a chronology of historical events from prehistory to the current day. Though somewhat dry (it would be impossible not to be when attempting to cover so vast a subject in a small book), it is still quite readable. The index lists cities and historical places, making it easy to look up your current location and read about events that took place there.
Recommended.
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| Whisky Galore
by Compton Mackenzie
1951 (1999 Ed.)
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This is a an interplay between the hard dry times of two Scottish Islands when they run out of the "water of life", the glory of finding an unlimited source of it and the hardships facing a WW2 romance.The friendly humour brings me back time and time again -- I've a copy printed in 1951 and it's just as a good read now as then. One of the most "five star" books ever written.
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(Review provided by an Amazon.co.uk contributor).
This book is out of print in the US but can be ordered from the UK for about $15 including shipping to the US.
A link to ordering the film can be found below in the video section.
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| Videos |
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| Braveheart
Video (Rated R)
1995
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Is there anyone who hasn't seen Braveheart? It's a rousing historical tale in the vein of Gladiator. Lots of beautiful scenery (though it was filmed in Iceland not Scotland). Still, you'll feel the spirit of Scotland and learn the significance of William Wallace in Scotland's history.
Recommended.
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| Briggadoon
Video (Not Rated)
1954
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You've never seen a musical quite like "Brigadoon". Charming and rich and amusing and romantic, it's a musical that seems to have everything: colorful songs, marvelous dancing, and a unique story. And with Gene Kelly, Van Johnson, and Cyd Charisse as the stars of the show, you know you're in for great entertainment. And with Vincente Minnelli as the director, you know you're in for something that's just beautiful.
(Review provided by an Amazon.com contributor)
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| Celtic Journey 2: Scotland
Video (Not Rated)
NTSC Format
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A relaxing video of beautiful panoramas of Scotland -- no narration, just spectacular visuals and Celtic music. A nice way to enjoy a dram of your favorite whisky.
About 40 minutes.
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| Local Hero
Video (Rated PG)
1983
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This is one of my favorite films, and perhaps the best film for anyone planning to visit Scotland. There aren't many scenic panoramas, but at the core there's a gentle and loving portrait of rural life in Scotland.
Very highly recommended.
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| Mrs. Brown
Video (Rated PG)
1997
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I have always been intrigued by the life of Queen Victoria and Judi Dench's performance contributes to the continued mystique of her life. John Brown's friendship with her is a fascinating relationship that grows from the beginning and culminates into Victoria's best friend, the most loved of advisors. I was surprised to learn that Victoria is buried with a picture of Brown in her tombstone. I think that there was more to the relationship than just a deep friendship but the movie does respect their lives & does not intend to create a version of love that was never true. The film does liberty to both people & is in my opinion one of the most thought provoking movies ever made.
(Review provided by an Amazon.com contributor)
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| Rob Roy
Video (Rated R)
1995
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It's a visually stunning video, filled with panoramic shots of Glen Coe. A romantic (and sometimes brutal) vision of Scotland's past.
Highly recommended.
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| Scotland ... Beauty and Majesty
VHS Video
NTSC Format
1999
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Not reviewed at this time. |
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| Scotland's Malt Whisky Trail
VHS Video
NTSC Format
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"Scotland's Malt Whisky Trail" is an informative and entertaining video - great for those who enjoy Scotch Malt Whisky or for those who want to learn more about an integral segment of Scotland's rich history. This video takes us along the Whisky Trail, visiting Scotland's oldest and most famous distillers, learning their tribulations and triumphs; as well as meeting the new competitors finding their niche in a highly competitive market. From the highland waters and earthy peat to the copper stills and hand-made barrels.
(Review provided by an Amazon.com contributor)
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| Touring Scotland
VHS Video
NTSC Format
1996
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Not reviewed at this time. |
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| Whisky Galore
VHS Video
NTSC Format
1949
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This classic British comedy deals with Scottish islanders during World War II who must cope without alcohol...until a shipload of whiskey is stranded just off their shores and a "rescue" run is planned. Basil Radford, Catherine Lacey, Joan Greenwood star.
AKA: "Tight Little Island."
81 min.
Highly recommended.
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