Ultimate Guide to Being Scottish

Essential reading for Scots everywhere, and for non-Scots with Scottish spouses, lovers, colleagues, friends or foes. Clark McGinn knows all about the pride that glints in the eyes of those with even a small percentage of tartan in the blood. But what exactly puts it there, and how do you know whether you’re a true Scot at heart (if not under your kilt)? And above all, how do you get a share in the action even if you’re not a Scot? This lighthearted yet thoroughly researched book examines the great things about being Scottish: Hogmanay, Burns Night, Up Helly Aa, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Hallowe’en and (the only one not celebrated in Scotland) Tartan Day – getting the most out of the big Scottish party occasions. Ceilidhs, Highland dancing and The Royal Caledonian Ball – how to put your best foot forward. The National Spirit – the history of whisky Munros, monuments and midges – how to survive the great Scottish countryside. ...and a great deal else, from a potted history of Scotia’s monarchs to deep-fried Mars bars to the bits of Auld Lang Syne nobody can remember. Essential reading for Scots everywhere, and for non-Scots with Scottish spouses, lovers, colleagues, friends or foes. Clark McGinn knows all about the pride that glints in the eyes of those with even a small percentage of tartan in the blood. But what exactly puts it there, and how do you know whether you’re a true Scot at heart (if not under your kilt)? And above all, how do you get a share in the action even if you’re not a Scot? This lighthearted yet thoroughly researched book examines the great things about being Scottish: Hogmanay, Burns Night, Up Helly Aa, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Hallowe’en and (the only one not celebrated in Scotland) Tartan Day – getting the most out of the big Scottish party occasions. Ceilidhs, Highland dancing and The Royal Caledonian Ball – how to put your best foot forward. The National Spirit – the history of whisky Munros, monuments and midges – how to survive the great Scottish countryside. ...and a great deal else, from a potted history of Scotia’s monarchs to deep-fried Mars bars to the bits of Auld Lang Syne nobody can remember.