Customer Reviews

Iona Island Guide (Colin Baxter Island Guides)

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This is one of the few books that does justice to Iona, an island that has enchanted and captivated visitors for, literally, thousands of years. It is truly difficult to convey the elusive magic of Iona, that combination of physical place and atmosphere which draws so many of us back, time after time. Colin Baxter needs no introduction to those familiar with landscape photography in Scotland, and his work here is up to his usual breath-taking standard. Mairi MacArthur has a solid grounding in the history of the island, and of Argyll and the Highlands, as well as a sympathetic but honest perspective on islanders, past and present. As a guide during your visit to Iona, the book is first-rate. The maps and diagrams are simple but clear and full. The explanations and descriptions help you understand what you see around you, in terms of geology, ecology, human settlements, animal and human life - and including of course the ancient religious centre. It is readable and useful for those less familiar with Scotland and its life and traditions as well as for those of us who live here For those who have visited Iona, it is a lovely reminder. For those who have not yet had that privilege, this is a taster which should have you itching to come.

This book is the latest of Mairi MacArthur's books on her family's native island. It is rich in accurate, well-researched detail, supported by her extensive knowledge of Iona. This has been gained through academic research and through her close acquaintance with the island's residents over many years. Colin Baxter's photographs give an excellent impression of Iona, though generally when on its best behaviour in the summer - it can be a wild place at other times! The island is of interest to tourists, academics and also Christian people wishing to explore this small and incredibly beautiful island, and to see for themselves the place where some of those rugged Celtic saints brought their faith from Ireland to Scotland in the sixth century. The pictures and story of the Abbey show how it remains very much a living home of the Christian faith. It will surely also appeal to the generations of Iona emigrants who have settled in the USA and Canada.

Iona is a wonderful book. The text is informative, interesting and well-written, and the photographs are great! Whether you are planning a trip or have already been there, it's a must.