Developed in collaboration with the Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature and the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, this book, by the esteemed Donald Smith invites you to discover the captivating tapestry of Edinburgh: Our Storied Town a spellbinding exploration of Edinburgh’s history, intricately illustrated by Cath Outram.
This commemorative edition, part of Edinburgh’s 900th anniversary celebration unveils the city’s storytelling evolution through the centuries, with each chapter delving into a different century. As Edinburgh gears up for its grand 900th anniversary festivities in August, immerse yourself in this literary gem that intertwines seamlessly with the celebrations. Join Donald Smith in honouring Edinburgh’s legacy, and witness the city hosting a major international literary conference, cementing its status as a global literary beacon. Edinburgh: Our Storied Town is an enchanting journey through time, connecting you to the heart of this storied city.
About the Author :
DONALD SMITH is founding Director of the Scottish Storytelling Centre and of the Scottish International Storytelling Festival. Donald Smith is a noted storyteller and performance poet in his own right, novelist, and playwright; and has authored a succession of books about Scottish culture, including Storytelling Scotland (2001) and Freedom and Faith (2013). From 2012 to 2023 he was CEO of TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland). (Donald was born in Glasgow to an Irish mother, and was brought up in Church of Scotland manses in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Stirling. In 2023 he was honoured to receive the Hamish Henderson Award for lifetime achievement.)
Review :
Edinburgh is a mad god’s dream. HUGH MACDIARMID
You are my skyline as high as eye is lifted nothing is beyond you. TESSA RANSFORD
Flatter not thyself; the same justice remaineth in God to punish thee, Scotland, and thee Edinburgh in especial. JOHN KNOX
In my precipitous city beaten bells Winnow the keen sea wind. R L STEVENSON
Media on Edinburgh’s 900th Anniversary:
City’s 900th anniversary deserves to be celebrated in style. SUSAN DALGETY, Edinburgh Evening News
Edinburgh winning the bid today to host the 2024 UNESCO Cities of Literature conference is an important moment. JOHN KENYON, Chair of UNESCO Cities of Literature Network
I look forward to a great programme of events which will examine how Edinburgh came to be over the centuries, celebrate where it is now, and refl ect its future ambitions and aspirations. ROBERT ALDRIDGE, The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh
