The Origin imprint publishes Birlinn’s academic books on all aspects of Scottish culture, from architecture to philosophy, specializing in history of the isles.
Based on the harrowing personal recollection of survivors and rescuers, newspaper reports and original research, Les Wilson tells the story of two terrible maritime disasters in Islay's memory, paying tribute to the astonishing bravery of the islanders, who risked their lives pulling men from the sea, caring for survivors and burying the dead.
On 14 October 1939, HMS Royal Oak, one of the British navy’s top battleships, was destroyed at the Royal Navy’s main anchorage at Scapa Flow. This book is a revealing account of the tragedy, told through declassified photographs and naval records, as well as statements from survivors.
With reference to written sources and the memories of those who survived the experience, John MacLeod tells the story of the Clydebank Blitz and the terrible scale of death and devastation, speculating on why its incineration has been so widely forgotten and its ordeal denied any place in national honour.
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