The Wrong Kelpie

About the Book: 

The Wrong Kelpie is a gleefully irreverent interpretation of the political establishment rooted in Scottish mythology.

Auchenlum is a town like no other – inhabited by yoomans, elves, kelpies and goblins, it is a breeding ground for ‘stupidity, flies and disease’. After the death of the long-standing provost Finlay, the town is thrown into hilarious social and political chaos – including competition between the residents as they run for election, mysterious deaths of kelpies (and cover-ups) and witchy spells.

Based off the 1970s Thorpe affair, this witty, imaginative read mocks the secrets and corruption involved in British politics and social attitudes. Craig’s writing is wry, absurd, satirical and faintly suspicious of anyone who takes themselves too seriously. A book for anyone fed up with the state of current politics and likes their satire on the magical side.

Reviews: 

Praise for Mary Craig

She takes an interesting and holistic view of this turbulent time in Scottish history. A fascinating read. – KENNY SMITH on Borders Witch Hunt

It’s a particularly juicy bite of Scottish social history. – SCOTLAND MAGAZINE on Borders Witch Hunt

Thanks to King James VI’s legacy and staunch efforts at eliminating witchcraft in Scotland, it would be dangerous to be a woman accused of witchcraft for centuries thereafter. Craig investigates one peculiar case of Agnes Finnie, a shopkeeper and money lender who underwent a month-long trial before being convicted. The long bibliography proves how much research Craig put into this account yet her engaging narrative writing style makes it almost feel as if you’re reading a novel. SCOTTISH FIELD on Agnes Finnie

About the Author:

MARY CRAIG is a writer and historian living in Scotland. She is a former Carnegie scholar and a graduate of the University of Glasgow. She is a working historian and writer and specialises in central European history. She has written articles for several journals and gives history talks and lectures across the country.

9780552166591

B-format paperback