A novel of Scotland and its people.

In a new edition of this classic book, introduced by the world-renowned Gaelic poet Sorley Maclean, the late Calum I. Maclean, a Gaelic-speaking Highlander, interprets the traditional background, culture and ways of life of his native country. Calum's formal training in folk culture and the depth of his local knowledge make this book truly outstanding - it is written by a Highlander from the inside. Many books on the Highlands have been penned by outsiders with an uncritical appreciation of the scenery and only the most superficial knowledge of the Gaelic language and culture. By contrast, Maclean brought informed attitudes and sympathetic opinions. He was concerned not so much with places, beauty spots and scenery as with the Highlanders in their own self-created environment. He writes in terms of individuals and suggests reasons why Highland culture is unique in the world - it is something that, if lost, can never be recovered or recreated.

Atlanta's Virginia-Highland neighborhood: depending on who you talk to, it's a historic suburb; or, a stylish entertainment district; or, a left-wing, political powerhouse; or a state-of-mind. It's also where Donovan Ford, an über-hip New York columnist who's unmotivated, under-employed and suddenly un-married, finds himself riding out his existential crisis. After years of writing about all that's trendy and new, he's begun to wonder what he has missed in life. That's until his octogenarian Aunt DeLaine loads him into her biodiesel Rolls-Royce with a thermos of Manhattans. Over the course of a year, she takes him on a ride of discovery, introducing him to local customs, southern flora, and society fauna (aka, Atlanta's Grande Dames) ...not to mention himself.