The Bone Cave: A Journey through Myth and Memory

The Bone Cave is a book about stories, old stories of people and place, and the more-than-human world. It follows Dougie Strang on a journey through the Scottish Highlands, encountering folktales and myths and exploring the tangible, living landscape of the present. It is longlisted for the Highland Book Prize.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2023
Publisher: Birlinn General

This captivating book delves into the realm of storytelling, encompassing a rich tapestry of human experiences and the enigmatic world beyond. It embarks on a captivating journey through the Scottish Highlands, weaving together a series of folktales and myths that find their roots in the very landscapes they depict. Accompanied by the rugged beauty of Scotland's majestic landscapes, author Dougie Strang traverses the vast expanse on foot, setting up camp amidst some of the country's most breathtaking and awe-inspiring sights. As he delves deeper into the tales he tracks, he uncovers a profound sense of meaning that offers a unique perspective on place, culture, land ownership, ecological stewardship, and personal connections to the land.

The journey begins at the beginning of October, coinciding with the red deer rut, where the majestic bellows of stags reverberate through the air, serving as a haunting reminder that Strang's exploration extends beyond the intangible realms of story and into the tangible, living landscape of the present. Throughout his expedition, Strang encounters a diverse range of characters, each with their own tales to tell and connections to the land. These interactions provide valuable insights into the complex tapestry of Scottish heritage and culture, as well as the intricate relationships between humans and the natural world.

The Bone Cave is not merely a travelogue; it is a philosophical exploration of the human condition and our relationship with the environment. Strang's writing is infused with a deep sense of reverence for the land and a longing for connection to the natural world. Through his storytelling, he encourages readers to contemplate the importance of preserving and protecting the environment, as well as the significance of our place within it.

This captivating book has been longlisted for the prestigious Highland Book Prize, a testament to its literary merit and the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries and ignite the imagination. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a seeker of immersive literary experiences, The Bone Cave is a must-read that will leave you pondering the mysteries of the human experience and the wonders of the natural world.

Weight: 366g
Dimension: 144 x 225 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781780278353