The Sea All Around

About the Book: 

Richard Clubley has loved islands all his life. From his childhood, with Stoney Island on his native Yorkshire coast, the sea’s salty embrace has captivated him, igniting a lifelong pursuit of these secluded realms.

When he ventured up north in the 1950s, Richard headed for Arran which had to be reached by ferry – the sea surrounding him. The idea of a world so self-contained, de ned and bounded by the sea, was something new to the young boy.

Richard was hooked.

Since then, Richard has explored around 100 Scottish islands and the excitement never fades. The anticipation before each one is still as great, even for those he has visited many times.

From the 60 or so inhabited islands, explore their unique qualities and challenges of living in the modern, technological world, whilst still keeping their history alive. On the other 100 uninhabited islands, learn about the wrinkly tin roofs that have rusted away, and the gable ends of abandoned settlements that still stand as ghosts, guiding you through lives once lived.

Richard paints a vivid portrait of island life, capturing the essence of these worlds bounded by water.

A testament to the enduring power of exploration and the unyielding allure of the sea, this book will sweep you away on a journey of discovery that spans the breadth of Scotland’s islands.

Reviews: 

He has a beautiful written style that allows him to convey his enthusiasm in a truly inspiring way. UNDISCOVERED SCOTLAND on Orkney: A Special Way of Life

For Richard Clubley there is no better place on Earth than Orkney In this magnificent book Clubley gathers anecdotes from locals and visitors, conveying character and unearthing stories which are not widely known. SCOTTISH FIELD on Orkney: A Special Way of Life

About the Author:

RICHARD CLUBLEY has found Scottish islands endlessly fascinating since his very first visit to Arran at the age of eight. A regular contributor to Scottish Islands Explorer magazine and Orkney.com, has visited over 70 Scottish islands and published two books with Luath Press on the subject – Scotland’s Islands and Orkney: A Special Place. Previously from Derbyshire, he now lives in Orkney with his wife Beverly.