Scotland Reading List

Suggested Reading List for Scotland  
Please note: Students and parents should use discretion in determining the appropriateness of each book for the student’s age, reading level, and maturity.  Books are designated G (grade school), J (junior high), or H (high school).

 

TITLE &  LINK

DESCRIPTION

GRADE
LEVEL

FICTION OR
NONFICTION

Berlitz Pocket Guide Edinburgh

A travel guide

ALL

N

Fields of Bannockburn: A Novel of Christian Scotland from Its Origins to Independence, by Donna Fletcher Crow

This book goes well beyond your average historical fiction. Donna Fletcher Crow splendidly links four pieces of Scotland's history with a modern day line. Be sure to follow up on the modern day characters when they go to Ireland in "The Banks of the Boyne."

H

F

Fodor's Scotland 2000

Vivid descriptions evoke what makes Scotland unique - Local experts show you the special places.  Thorough updating keeps you on track.  Practical information gives you the tools to explore.  Easy-to-use format puts it all at your fingertips.

ALL

N

Highlanders: A History of the Gaels, by John MacLeod

In this sweeping chronicle, award-winning journalist John Macleod offers an insider's view of the Scottish Highlands, from the Stone Age to the present day. In this illuminating, wonderfully readable study, John Macleod unfolds the history of the land and people of the Scottish Highlands.

J/H

F

King's Swift Rider: A Novel on Robert the Bruce, by Mollie Hunter Sixteen-year-old Martin Crawford succeeds in rescuing a fugitive, only to be surprised that the hunted man is none other than Robert the Bruce, rightful King of Scots. Hoping to lead a quiet life, Martin instead is asked by the king to commit himself to the war the Bruce is fighting to regain Scotland's freedom from the brutal rule imposed on it by the English.

J/H

F

Lady MacDonald's Scotland: The Best of Scottish Food and Drink, by Lady Claire MacDonald

Lady MacDonald takes us to ten of the best hotels and restaurants in Scotland, shares with us 60 of her favorite recipes, and introduces some of the people who are helping to sustain the Scottish culinary tradition. Contains color photos.

ALL

N

Little House in the Highlands, by Melissa Wiley, Renee Graef (Illustrator)
Discover the childhood adventures of the spirited little Scottish girl who became Laura Ingalls Wilder's great-grandmother. "The Little House" saga continues!

G/J

F

Little Scottish Cookbook, by Paul Harris, Karen Bailey (Illustrator)

In this beautifully illustrated volume, readers will find traditional and heartfelt recipes guaranteed to keep them warm through a long night in the Highlands. From the author of "A Little Irish Cookbook."

ALL

N

Mary, Queen of Scots, by Antonia Fraser

A biography of Mary Queen of Scots captures the essence of the impulsive and beautiful Scottish queen who lost a throne for love and whose power struggle with Elizabeth I of England ended with her beheading.

H

F

Mary, Queen of Scotland and the Isles, by Margaret George

George has created a lively, gallant Mary of intelligence, charm, and terrible judgment--in outline true enough, and fictionally persuasive. Unlike cousin Elizabeth I of England, Mary enjoyed a richly cosseted and loving childhood and youth; arriving back in Scotland then--a Scotland bristling with religious ferment, plots, and a history of regencies--is a shock, at first bewildering, then exhilarating.

H

F

Robert the Bruce: King of Scots, by Ronald McNair Scott

The Bruce's legacy, so vividly illustrated in the book, of tremendous courage, resilience, leadership, and compassion is inspiring to any reader. Particularly moving was the Bruce's repeated displays of grace to his defeated enemies and political opponents. How rare in history to see such compassion from a victor in battle!

J/H

N

Scottish Chiefs, by Jane Porter

A romantic, suspenseful novel of Scotland's 14th-century heroes, Sir William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. First published in 1809 to spectacular success throughout Europe, this new edition captures the grandeur of the earlier edition, with Wyeth's glorious paintings reproduced from the original canvases.

G/J

F

A Traveller's History of Scotland, by Andrew Fisher

Andrew Fisher explains the roots of Scottish history, beginning with the Celts, Scotland's first people, and their culture. "A Traveller's History Of Scotland" is a very good history, soundly researched, and ably written.

ALL

N

William Wallace: Brave Heart, by James A. MacKay

There is a lot of mystery surrounding the life and times of William Wallace. MacKay leans heavily on the minstrel, Blind Harry, for information, but as MacKay is such a noted historian, you can be sure that the information in the book is as close to the truth as you will get.

J/H

N

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