New
AcquisitionsMaritime Scotland; Brian Lavery; Batsford/Historic Scotland, 2001; £15.99; CA 16100
Enthusiasts for Patrick O’Brian novels may have encountered Brian Lavery as an authority on Nelson’s navy. For this title, he has gathered an amazing number of facts and explanations (eg why “puffers” are so called), from prehistory to present, into a slim volume. The introduction warns what cannot be covered: yachting for example, but of particular interest for today’s yachtsman is the description of former activity in popular cruising grounds, such as the Clyde.
Scotland’s history is retold from a marine perspective, apposite given the geography of Scotland and past dependence on water-borne communication. (As I write this, Inverness is cut off from road and rail links by floods).
A bibliography is included, but for such a diverse range of topics, references would be justified. There is a broad choice of “Places to Visit”, including some in the care of Historic Scotland (equivalent to English Heritage), although this is written for approach by land rather than sea. Disappointingly, the maps and sketch plans are not all sufficiently clear to do justice to their content. Otherwise, the many drawings and paintings (including colour plates) are illuminating.
I would find space aboard when in Scottish waters for this most instructive cornucopia. - JT
Page prepared 11 September 2002
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