THIRTY YEARS OF ADVENTURE IN SEARCH OF THE PAST. THE OUTER HEBRIDES

This superbly illustrated book is a monument to Marc Calhoun’s perseverance, ambition, and obsession to reach now-deserted places of former human settlement in the most remote corners of the Outer Hebrides. It contains over 150 full-colour photographs and detailed information on the history of many places which these days are rarely visited. It took Marc some 30 years to collect all the material, often being unable to reach some of the more inaccessible islands on his first attempt and having to return several times before sea conditions were right.

Despite its serious purpose, the book is written in a light-hearted and self-effacing way, with hand-drawn maps to illustrate where boats landed, his tent was pitched, and innumerable cans of beer consumed! Like most of the books of the classic writers who inspired him, it is of course a view of the Outer Hebrides seen from the outside. But even those who know the Hebrides intimately (whether native-born, incomers, academics, or visitors) will learn new things from this encyclopaedic account – which may yet become recognised as a classic in its own idiosyncratic right.

Published: 2024

Author: Marc Calhoun

ISBN:  978-1-907443-85-5

Illustrations:  157 colour photos, plus maps