Today, over eleven million Americans claim Scottish and Scotch-Irish roots -- making them the eighth largest ethnic group in the United States. These are the people and accomplishments that are honored on National Tartan Day, April 6th, a special holiday for all Scottish-Americans.
Books for Children and Young
Adults on Scotland
Adults on Scotland
(Ages 9 to 12) This historical fiction (aimed at 10-12 year olds) by an award-winning author of young adult books, offers the perspective of a young girl about the Highland Settlement at Cross Creek, North Carolina, during the American Revolution.
The Black Arrow: A Tale of the Two Roses, by Robert Louis Stevenson
A fierce war rages between two powerful and bitter rivals:on one side the House of Lancaster; on the other the House of York. The prize? The crown of England! Young Richard Shelton finds himself torn in his loyalties. Should he serve the interests of his villainous master. or throw in his lot with the dashing outlaw Ellis Duckworth and his band known as the Black Arrow? Richard must decide wisely, for his fate--and the fate of England--hangs in the balance....
Castles of Scotland, Text by J.K. Anderson, models by Nick Taylor
A very detailed black and white "cut out & put together" book, with two Scottish castles: Doune (31 pieces) and Caerlaverock (51 pieces). Parents, you'll have a great deal of cutting and pasting to help with (not the computer kind, but the "real thing"). With patience and care, these paper models, especially when colored with marker pens prior to cutting, will make impressive additions to any child's room...
The Celts, by Hazel Mary Martell
(Grades 5 to 8) This book offers readers a beautiful blend of history and mythology - providing a new approach to exploring the Celts. This book retells a selection of important myths, using dramatic illustrations and supplementing them with historical and cultural information, including realistic maps and diagrams.Information is gathered in short paragraphs and arranged under subheadings and headings for easy accessibility. Daily life, crafts, houses, foods, government, and weapons are not only described, but also pictured in full-color drawings and photographs of museum objects and archaeological findings. As an added attraction, transparencies are inserted over architectural drawings that, when lifted, reveal the interiors of fortresses, homes, and burial sites.
David Balfour: Being Memoirs of the Further Adventures of David Balfour at Home and Abroad, by Robert Louis Stevenson
The further adventures of David Balfour (of Stevenson's novel Kidnapped) in which he continues his friendship with Alan Breck Stewart and support of the Scottish highlanders' cause, travels abroad to complete his education, and finds romance. Ten magnificent full-color plates complement Stevenson's action-packed sequel to Kidnapped, as David Balfour struggles to exonerate James Stewart, becomes a captive, and romances Catriona Drummond.
Drums, by James Boyd
(Ages 9 to 12) An action story about the American Revolutionary War. Johnny Fraser, the son of Scottish immigrants now living in North Carolina, is torn between his lifelong loyalty to the British Crown and the exciting talk of independence passing among his neighbors, and he joins the fight for freedom aboard the Bonhomme Richard.
Hamish and the Wee Witch, by Moira Miller; 1986: Cannongate Books, Edinburgh
"Hamish and Mirren live in a little farmhouse by a beautiful loch. They are very happy - until one day a wee witch comes and steals the milk from their cow. Can they outwit the witch and live a peaceful life once more?"
A Highland Christmas, by M.C. Beaton
(Young Adult) With Christmas fast approaching, Police Constable Hamish Macbeth finds the community of Lochdubh, Scotland, facing another holiday under the dreary influence of Calvinism. He manages to schedule a carol sing and party at the local retirement home, puts up a tree, and sets about solving a long-open case of petty thievery in the area. Although a tremendous amount of joy and goodness stems from the officer's actions, he never seems to realize any of the positive results.The story leaves a warm glow of contentment and has several humorous moments.
The Jacobites, by Antony Kamm
(Ages 4 to 8) From the "Scotty Books" informational books for young readers series. Each full-color, exciting title "contains a wealth of interesting facts, stimulating activities and suggestions for places to visit. Who were the Jacobites? What were their aims? And what did they achieve? The most colorful period in Scotland's past is brought vividly to life. Follow the risings of Viscount Dundee (1689), the Earl of Mar (1715), and Bonnie Prince Charlie (1745), and read about other events and people of their times.Share the fortunes of Rob Roy MacGregor as you play the Rob Roy game, break the code in the message sent to James VIII, plot the course of two armies; draw your own plan of the Battle of Culloden."
Kidnapped, by Robert Louis Stevenson
(Grade 6 and Up) This novel remains one of the classic coming-of-age stories for children and young adults today. After the death of his father, David Balfour sets out to meet his uncle and claim his inheritance. This adventure takes him through the highlands of Scotland where he embarks upon a long journey back from treachery and deceit.
Prince Lachlan, by Nette Hilton
(PreSchool to Grade 1) Prince Lachlan, l'enfant terrible, makes his presence felt in the Kingdom of Hill. Noise, confusion, and catastrophe are his constant companions. His behavior is put to good use when the Great One, a nefarious villian, schemes to take over the throne. Apparently the Great One has no tolerance for noisy, disruptive children, because a visit from Prince Lachlan sends him packing.
The Scottish Chiefs, by Jane Porter
(Ahes 9 to 12) A romantic, suspenseful novel of Scotland's 14th-century heroes, Sir William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. William Wallace encounters secret passageways, disguises, and a quintet of horrible villains as he fights for Scotland at the turn of the fourteenth century.
Treasure Island, by Robert Louis Stevenson
(Grade 7 and up) Climb aboard for the swashbuckling adventure of a lifetime. Treasure Islandhas enthralled (and caused slight seasickness) for decades. The names Long John Silver and Jim Hawkins are destined to remain pieces of folklore for as long as children want to read Robert Louis Stevenson's most famous book. With it's dastardly plot and motley crew of rogues and villains, it seems unlikely that children will ever say no to this timeless classic.
Adapted from "Cameron Kids Online Books," located at http://www.clan-cameron.org/kids/books.html
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