Cappuccino and Porridge: Tuscany and Harris - the Lands of our Fathers
BY DUNCAN MACKENZIE ACAIR BOOKS £15.95
When I first picked up this book, I was all set to don my chef hat and ready myself for a new breakfast recipe – but never judge a book by its cover.
The name Cappuccino and Porridge is, in fact, a hint at a beautiful melange of Italian and Scottish heritage. Inspired by his father from Harris, his step-father from Skye and his father-in-law from Tuscany, this is a heartwarming tale, exploring how the experiences of these three men in World War II would eventually have a remarkable influence on the life of the author.
The story begins in modern-day Edinburgh, where MacKenzie – a former legal expert – has lived following on from his early years in Banffshire and Dumfriesshire. He talks fondly of his life in the capital, noting everything from its resident otters to its quirky residents.
The next section then goes back in time to World War II where we hear the story of MacKenzie’s father John who was in the Royal Air Force and held prisoner during the war. Hearing what he experienced makes for a saddening read as excerpts from his diary are referenced throughout.
The book then moves on to the experiences of the author’s fatherin-law during the war in Italy and his step-father who served as a chaplin in the army.
All three narratives had a vast impact on the author’s life – the most significant of all being the day he met his future wife.
It is the love story with his Italian wife, who is affectionately known as Ale, that MacKenzie ends on. One might assume that the flitting between time periods and characters would be hard to follow, but MacKenzie’s beautiful writing makes the flow seamless. Following the different accounts and watching them intertwine makes for compelling reading.
In the introduction, it is expressed that the purpose of this book is to pay homage to both MacKenzie and Ale’s parents through sharing their stories and experiences in the war. Undoubtedly, their stories have been told eloquently and this is a glowing tribute.
The inclusion of family photographs in the last third of the book adds a personal, human touch and really helps bring each of their glowing faces to life. It is clear how much every person mentioned in this book means to the MacKenzie – this really is a story told from the heart.
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The name Cappuccino and Porridge is a hint at a melange of Italian and Scottish heritage
Sixty Glorious Seasons: The Memoirs of Finlay Mackintosh, a Badenoch Stalker 1883-1966
BY RICHARD
SIDGWICK SELF-PUBLISHED £25
It isn’t very often you see books documenting a life spent on the hills, and Mackintosh certainly lived a fascinating life. His time working in Badenoch as a stalker is inspiring, especially for those who know the area themselves. Reading this feels as though you’re sitting down with Mackintosh, dram in hand, listening to him regale stories from the glory days.
Singing In The Streets: A Glasgow Memoir
BY MARIA FYFE LUATH PRESS £14.99
‘From council house to the House of Commons,’ the feeling roused by this quote is amplified the further you delve into this book. Fyfe details her life from growing up in the Gorbals in post World War II Britain to her work as an MP for the Labour Party. She depicts the struggles and victories faced by women of her class at this time. I was surprised and moved to learn that Fyfe’s first job was as a secretary for Scottish Field. An inspiring book by an inspring woman.
What they knew
BY MARION TODD CANELO £8.99
Set in St Andrews this crime novel is a real page turner – although it may not be one to read just before bed. The fourth mystery in the series, DI Claire MacKay has been tasked with finding a killer who is particularly skilled at evading capture. Todd’s emotive language brings the story to life, and the wintery backdrop adds to the darkness and unease of the book. The characters are relatable, the descriptions of the town are eerie, and the plot keeps you guessing until the very end. I can’t wait for the next installment.
£12.99 The Mirror Dance
BY CATRIONA MCPHERSON HODDER & STOUGHTON £21.99
The ever witty McPherson has outdone herself in the latest installment of the Dandy Gilver adventures. Set in Dundee, this book follows the private investigator as she helps solve a copyright dispute involving a travelling puppeteer and a local publishing house. However, like most detective series, all is not as simple as it seems. This fast-paced book filled with twists, turns and gripping characters will keep you guessing and engaged from the beginning.
Anthrax Island
BY D.L. MARSHALL CANELO £8.99
This is the thrilling debut novel by Marshall, centering around the Anthrax testing island of Gruinard. A mixture of fact and fiction, this novel follows John Tyler as he is sent to the island to fix broken equipment. However, he soon realises there is more going on than at first meets the eye. After a scientist is murdered in a sealed room, Tyler has to act fast to figure out what is going on. Gripping, full of suspense, and boasting strong character development, I would highly recommend picking up this daring whodunnit on a rainy day.
It Started in a Cupboard: Adventures in Life, Learning and Happiness
BY KENNETH CALMAN LUATH PRESS
In this autobiography, Sir Kenneth Calman details his life as one of the most influential medics of his time. From growing up in a council house in Glasgow to becoming the only person to be appointed Chief Medical Officer of both Scotland and England, this is a story of hard work and perseverance. An awe-inspiring, captivating read about a formidable, highly respected surgeon.