Alan McCombes reveals all in an interview we’ve just posted on this website where he explains why he and Roz wrote the book and why everyone should read it. “We’re living right now in the midst of one of the most momentous periods in Scotland’s history, a potential turning point as dramatic as 1314 or 1707, yet there has been a strange dearth of discussion over the past,” he says. “…All of us, individually, are products of all the accumulated experiences and influences we have been exposed to from the day of our birth onwards. Societies and nations are also shaped by the years, decades and centuries that have come before.” Read the full interview

At last! Restless Land: a radical journey through Scotland’s history was officially launched last Friday in Glasgow. Around 100 people attended the event hosted by Calton Books, Glasgow’s radical independent bookshop which has published the first edition of Restless Land. The owner of Calton Books Robert Rae was there, keen to emphasise the importance of the book in telling the stories of the ordinary men, women and children that make up Scotland’s fascinating history.

“It’s important to understand our history and know where we’ve come from’ he said. ‘This book isn’t all about the kings and queens; it’s about the working people who have contributed to Scotland’s history. In particular, the voice of women shines through.”

Political analyst and public affairs consultant, Jeane Freeman, focused on the themes of power and inequality that run through the book while praising the book for being easy to read, substantive, and a real page turner.

“It tells you things that you didn’t know. It tells you things you have never been told,” she said. “It’s a fascinating history that’s incredibly important for articulating the history of those on whose shoulders we stand.”

Following a burst of great musical entertainment from Rosie Kane and brothers Tam and Andy McGarvey, writer and broadcaster Pat Kane discussed the book with author Alan McCombes.

Thanks to all the speakers and everyone who came along, and everyone who bought the book. It was a great night!

Remember you can buy your copy directly from Calton Books or from any of the links on the left. It will be available soon as a PDF from this website shortly…