The Book of Beasties: A Scottish Bestiary of Old 1710

by Belle Robertson, Larry MacDougall (Illustrator)

Claiming to be the oldest Scottish bestiary of its kind, The Book of Beasties recounts a lifetime’s fascination with Scottish myth and legend. Reputed to be written by the Great Clan Chief in 1710, delight in this magnificent and rare sketchbook illustrated with the finest of drawings. From unicorns, selkies, kelpies and trolls, discover the many different creatures that roam this ancient land. With mention of historical anecdotes and prized antiquities, delve into Scotland’s Celtic past to discover a hidden kingdom of otherworldly creatures. Hailed as one of the most important Scottish artistic discoveries in recent years, The Book of Beasties has survived to tell its story. Few copies of this precious volume remain. For all those who believe - a beautiful gift book to treasure. Open with care and discover the magic. This Booklet measure 6" x 8.5" (A5) it contains the same text and drawings as the previous A4 edition.

Genres: Fantasy, Mythology

78 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 2015

Reviews

[Louise Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

it's a cute little book with lovely illustrations. A nice keepsake bought while travelling around Scotland - St Andrews

[Ceitag · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really fun book, taking a light-hearted look at some of Scotland's mythical creatures. It is beautifully bound each creature is accompanied by a line drawing.

[Ben Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

A rather intereisting Bestiary with some stunning art. A tad short but overall I will look back on this often

[Kate MacRitchie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Found this by chance on my birthday in a local farm shop (I know that sounds weird, but this place stocks everything. You go in for jam and come out with an antique biscuit barrel in the shape of a pug).

Back to the book. It's a tongue-in-cheek guide to Scottish beasties, from Scotland's national animal, the unicorn, to Orkney's gruesome Nuckalavee. The illustrations reminded me of Brian Froud and Alan Lee's book 'Faeries'. I love it!

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This wee book is beautifully illustrated with adorable fairies and terrifying beasts of the Scottish wilds.
It is not totally clear whether it is meant to pass as a reprint of an old book or why it would, but the old timey vibe is fun.

[Iga · Rating 4 out of 5]

Work of art

[Vikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was beautifully illustrated and a fun dip into Scottish myth. It could however have been improved by a Gaelic pronunciation guide.

[Katrianna Eileen]

Extremely interesting read. Especially as a native, learning about Scottish myth and folk lore in this little coffee table book was thoroughly enjoyable.

[Lucas Mattila · Rating 2 out of 5]

A bit too sparse, though the illustrations are fun.

[Kaye Salter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Proof that Fairy stories aren't just for kids! I LOVED this book! Very beautiful art work. Worth a purchase. Great coffee table book

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting and entertaining

[Molly Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful sketches

[Michael Arnold · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cool little book. Quick read and fun!

[Luca Morandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting bestiary of Scotland magic beasts.

[Noelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Me encantó conocer más sobre las leyendas de Escocia. Este libro es cortito, pero ameno y las ilustraciones son muy bonitas.

[Pedro Rainha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extremely interesting Scottish beastiary, got this in a small shop when travelling in Scotland. Quite short but will be re-reading it and using its content for inspiration

[Sue Burden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy read and good introduction to the Beasties of Scotland..

[Kaelin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed learning about all the Scottish fairies, pixies, mermaids, trolls, etc that live here :)