Hailed as a vast, superb history [that] relates Scotland’s past over a dozen millennia” (Kirkus Reviews), Magnusson draws on a great deal of modern scholarship to redefine a nation’s history. He charts the long struggle toward nationhood, explores the roots of the original Scots, and examines the extent to which Scotland was shaped by the Romans, the Picts, the Vikings, and the English. Encompassing everything from the first Mesolithic settlers in 7000 B.C. to the present movements for independence,Scotland: The Story of a Nationis history on an epic level, essential reading for anyone interested in the rich past of this captivating land.
Magnusson tells his story with vigor and lucidity. . . . He sets himself to put the romance back into history, and succeeds splendidly.”Allan Massie,The Spectator(London)
A very readable, traditional history told as a tale from its beginnings up to now.”Neal Ascherson,The Observer(London)
Lovers of history, literature, romance, or adventure will, after the first pages, be pulled irresistibly to the end. Their only regret after reaching it may be [waiting] for a sequel.”Booklist
A well-told traditional history.” The Washington Post