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Jack's Strange Tales #1
Strange Tales of Scotland
Strange Tales of Scotland is a collection of stories, each dealing with a particular aspect of the mysteries of Scotland.
The first chapter tells of the ghost that appeared at the wedding of King Alexander II, and the second one of monsters such as the Shellycoat and Water-horse that were thought to inhabit Scotland’s lochs. Another part of the book deals exclusively with Loch Ness and the strange happenings at that mysterious body of water. Later, we have a look at the mysterious deaths at the Flannan Islands Lighthouse, and at the strange creatures that were once believed to infest the hills and glens of Scotland, including the terrifying brollachan and the slaugh.
Tales of Mermaids and Fin-men are unearthed, as are terrible stories of Scotland’s caves, including human sacrifice at Moray’s Sculptor’s Cave. The legends of Roslin Chapel and its nearby castle are examined, with the possible connection to the Knights Templar. Finally, we have a look at the legend of the phantom armies of Scotland; soldiers who refuse to fade away even centuries after their wars have been fought, and their causes faded in history.
Welcome to the Strange Tales of Scotland.
The first chapter tells of the ghost that appeared at the wedding of King Alexander II, and the second one of monsters such as the Shellycoat and Water-horse that were thought to inhabit Scotland’s lochs. Another part of the book deals exclusively with Loch Ness and the strange happenings at that mysterious body of water. Later, we have a look at the mysterious deaths at the Flannan Islands Lighthouse, and at the strange creatures that were once believed to infest the hills and glens of Scotland, including the terrifying brollachan and the slaugh.
Tales of Mermaids and Fin-men are unearthed, as are terrible stories of Scotland’s caves, including human sacrifice at Moray’s Sculptor’s Cave. The legends of Roslin Chapel and its nearby castle are examined, with the possible connection to the Knights Templar. Finally, we have a look at the legend of the phantom armies of Scotland; soldiers who refuse to fade away even centuries after their wars have been fought, and their causes faded in history.
Welcome to the Strange Tales of Scotland.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2017
541 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
May 3, 2020
Strange indeed!
Strange Tales of Scotland by Jack Strange is a great history lesson with legends, myths, and history all rolled up in one! I like these kind of books. They are certainly not boring! The weirdest one was the Bean family! They have me the creeps!
Strange Tales of Scotland by Jack Strange is a great history lesson with legends, myths, and history all rolled up in one! I like these kind of books. They are certainly not boring! The weirdest one was the Bean family! They have me the creeps!
June 26, 2017
This is a lovely book that gives you a good overview or the legends, myths, folk tales and some true crime of Scotland. Consisting of many shortish stories you get a true look at the variety of Scottish legends.
June 27, 2017
Wonderful collection of various folk tales and true stories of Scotland. Strange hits places outside of the major tourist centers, so it makes a nice break. The famous stories are also included, but it is wonderful to see other stories as well.
January 1, 2020
It was an interesting read but needed serious editing - not sure if it was poorly ported to e-book format or just badly edited before publishing but it definitely detracted from my reading enjoyment. Also I would have enjoyed more in-depth details about some of the paranormal situations and sightings; often it read more like a textbook just listing all the Scottish ghosts.
April 26, 2020
Very entertaining and interesting
This was a very engaging collection of short tales of Scottish folklore, legend and history that I enjoyed thoroughly. Highly recommended for anyone with an interest in Scotland and Scottish culture. I am tempted to plan a tour of Scotland visiting many of the places mentioned in this book to experience the history and tales first hand!
This was a very engaging collection of short tales of Scottish folklore, legend and history that I enjoyed thoroughly. Highly recommended for anyone with an interest in Scotland and Scottish culture. I am tempted to plan a tour of Scotland visiting many of the places mentioned in this book to experience the history and tales first hand!
February 12, 2022
This is a very interesting collection of tales from around Scotland mixing both historical fact with mythological fiction and everything in between. Strange delves into the mysterious less well known side of Scotland and her people and how the stories have become woven into the fabric of the country, snowballing from inocuous local tales to legends known the world over.
July 6, 2018
Legend, folklore and much, much more.
Having lived in the North-East of Scotland for 13 happy years, in my
days and having had two sons born, north of the border' I looked forward to reaxing this collection of truths and fables about the land where I found such happiness. This book has it all, from the Loch Ness Monster (and other lesser-known lake monsters) to the famed Rosslyn Chapel, ghostly goings-on in draughty old castles and ancient rites of human sacrifice, this book contains a plethora of truths, half-truths, legends and speculations, sufficient to keep the reader entertained, mystified and totally wrapped up in the mists of time locked deeply into the history and folklore of the country that gave us Robert the Bruce, Bonnie Prince Charlie, William Wallace and more. A smashing read.
Having lived in the North-East of Scotland for 13 happy years, in my
days and having had two sons born, north of the border' I looked forward to reaxing this collection of truths and fables about the land where I found such happiness. This book has it all, from the Loch Ness Monster (and other lesser-known lake monsters) to the famed Rosslyn Chapel, ghostly goings-on in draughty old castles and ancient rites of human sacrifice, this book contains a plethora of truths, half-truths, legends and speculations, sufficient to keep the reader entertained, mystified and totally wrapped up in the mists of time locked deeply into the history and folklore of the country that gave us Robert the Bruce, Bonnie Prince Charlie, William Wallace and more. A smashing read.
April 30, 2020
I’m not sure what I think of this book. While I liked some stories, I have to say, that I expected maybe something different? Every chapter is about one story or so, and is packed with namens upon names, whether it be persons or hills or castles or rivers. Way too many, especially for somebody who has no clue about Scottish geography.
That together made it really tiring to read and honestly, I only skipped through the last third or so, looking if there’s something interesting and not overly gory there. But it all is pretty cruel and gruesome, and that’s not for me, sadly.
That together made it really tiring to read and honestly, I only skipped through the last third or so, looking if there’s something interesting and not overly gory there. But it all is pretty cruel and gruesome, and that’s not for me, sadly.
June 29, 2020
Some interesting stories, but with far too little meat upon their bones.
March 13, 2021
"Except for some hard hill walkers, few people are out and alone in the real dark to meet creatures such as the terrifying brollachan." -MONSTERS OF THE LAND, Pg. 26
I enjoyed these tales but the book of chock full of typos and spelling errors, so minus 1 star for poor editing.
Things I learned from this Book -
Pibroch, a type of Bagpipe music of martial or funerary character.
Cateran, a warrior or raider from the Highlands.
Laird, a Landlord ranked below a Baron.
Haar, a cold sea fog.
Strath, a valley which is wider & shallower than a Glen.
Wynd, a narrow lane between houses.
Drystane, drystone construction without the use of mortar.
Dun, a ancient fort, often similar to a roundhouse or hillfort.
Deasil, clockwise or sunward.
Kenspeckle, easily recognizable or conspicuous.
Douce, gentle or sedate.
Thumbikins, a cute name for Thumbscrew torture.
Fuath, a malevolent water spirit.
Shellycoat, a bogeyman that haunts rivers.
Chailleach, an old women, a witch.
I enjoyed these tales but the book of chock full of typos and spelling errors, so minus 1 star for poor editing.
Things I learned from this Book -
Pibroch, a type of Bagpipe music of martial or funerary character.
Cateran, a warrior or raider from the Highlands.
Laird, a Landlord ranked below a Baron.
Haar, a cold sea fog.
Strath, a valley which is wider & shallower than a Glen.
Wynd, a narrow lane between houses.
Drystane, drystone construction without the use of mortar.
Dun, a ancient fort, often similar to a roundhouse or hillfort.
Deasil, clockwise or sunward.
Kenspeckle, easily recognizable or conspicuous.
Douce, gentle or sedate.
Thumbikins, a cute name for Thumbscrew torture.
Fuath, a malevolent water spirit.
Shellycoat, a bogeyman that haunts rivers.
Chailleach, an old women, a witch.
July 7, 2024
A nice selection of stories and tales covering the Scottish Borders to the Scottish Highlands and from the East Coast to the West Coast of Scotland and including the occasional Scottish island.
What I liked about the book was the range of areas in Scotland covered. I liked the variety of the tales based on real life history and based around folklore. The colourful characters mentioned in the book and anything clan related is always of interest.
I could have done without the element of humour present only on the basis that I do not want the spooky elements of sinister, dark folklore tarnished by light hearted humour - simply keep the sinister edge.
Also I felt some of the stories often had bits and pieces of thoughts tagged on as afterthoughts.
My stand out favourites from the book include Mysterious Rosslyn and the Templars, Sawney Bean, The Brahan Seer, the Big Grey Man of Ben Macdui, Bodies for Doctor Knox and Wicked Lord Soulis. I did like the castle lore towards the end as well.
A book that is quite reasonable for the passing of a few hours.
What I liked about the book was the range of areas in Scotland covered. I liked the variety of the tales based on real life history and based around folklore. The colourful characters mentioned in the book and anything clan related is always of interest.
I could have done without the element of humour present only on the basis that I do not want the spooky elements of sinister, dark folklore tarnished by light hearted humour - simply keep the sinister edge.
Also I felt some of the stories often had bits and pieces of thoughts tagged on as afterthoughts.
My stand out favourites from the book include Mysterious Rosslyn and the Templars, Sawney Bean, The Brahan Seer, the Big Grey Man of Ben Macdui, Bodies for Doctor Knox and Wicked Lord Soulis. I did like the castle lore towards the end as well.
A book that is quite reasonable for the passing of a few hours.
June 22, 2017
Strange Tales of Scotland is an apt title. Weird happens and sometimes some really deranged people. Maybe it is the whiskey. Even the royalty is not spared. One, with King Alexander is a love tale—of sorts. Queen Mary had real own problems with the supernatural. Of course, there is a bit about Nessie, but there are other creatures. A Cait Siths are ghostly cats and a Cu Sith is a green dog. Who would think a sacrificial cave would exist in Scotland or legends of cannibalism? Of course, there are phantom armies and ghosts aplenty. I loved the part about the Scottish fairies. It seems they differ from the English fairy, but you will have to read about them for yourself. Oh yes, there is a big foot-like creature, mass murderers, and a powerful seer. Readers of the macabre will love this collection.
September 23, 2018
This is a fun book about all sorts of strange things in Scotland. This includes belief in fairies, witches and other creatures including a Scottish version of Bigfoot. Stories (some of which are based on actual facts) include ones about a seer (who was very accurate, by the way), the Loch Ness Monster, Aleister Crowley, female vampires, unforgiven dead, Rosslyn Chapel, Bluidy Tam, and others.
There are also stories that are about people who were actual cannibals, people stealing bodies for medical autopsies (and the doctor who paid them to do just that), giants (which seems to be something that appears in legend around the world) and phantom armies.
Except for the cannibal parts it's an enjoyable read.
There are also stories that are about people who were actual cannibals, people stealing bodies for medical autopsies (and the doctor who paid them to do just that), giants (which seems to be something that appears in legend around the world) and phantom armies.
Except for the cannibal parts it's an enjoyable read.
May 31, 2020
I found this book for free on Amazon via BookBub; this is my honest review.
-Mr. Strange starts his book with "This small book has stories of the unusual, the bizarre and the just plain creepy.", and I think he nailed it.
-I had to skip over the two chapters relating to cannibalism as to not get nightmares. But I read all the other chapters.
-Interesting read all through the book. I knew some of the stories but definitely not the majority.
-Some stories are more tedious to read than others, with too many names of people and places, roads, and titles.
-Still a good read and would recommend for those who like myths and legends.
-Editing needs another pass: e.g. a women (vs. woman), knew (vs. new), missing words here and there.
-Mr. Strange starts his book with "This small book has stories of the unusual, the bizarre and the just plain creepy.", and I think he nailed it.
-I had to skip over the two chapters relating to cannibalism as to not get nightmares. But I read all the other chapters.
-Interesting read all through the book. I knew some of the stories but definitely not the majority.
-Some stories are more tedious to read than others, with too many names of people and places, roads, and titles.
-Still a good read and would recommend for those who like myths and legends.
-Editing needs another pass: e.g. a women (vs. woman), knew (vs. new), missing words here and there.
June 8, 2017
Every now and again a real gem of a book comes along & thoroughly captures me, this is one such publication. Transported back through history, covering myths, legends & ghosts, the reader is immersed in the tales of the Scottish glens & lochs, bringing them to life and leaving you wondering how much is truth & which is folklore handed down through generations. I read this excellent work on Kindle but will be placing an order for the paperback version, wanting to dip into it every now & again, whether on a road trip through the Scottish Isles, stopping off to see the places of historical interest or huddled up by the fireside in winter, rereading the legends of old on a dark winter night.
February 12, 2020
As I see from the feedback of readers familiar with the region under scrutiny, the book has been appreciated. I know only fleetingly about the mysteries of the region - with Loch Ness Monster the most obvious one. But I do know that the region is known for such mysteries, so I looked forwarded to reading and getting to know more about them. However most of the stories are quite short and compact and pack so many names and events that I got weary many a times not being able to comprehend much. For a reader like me not too familiar with the history of the region, the sheer number of lords, castles, battles etc. became overwhelming. I did enjoy some of the tales, which were elaborated well.
September 11, 2022
This short, light read covers a plethora of legends and myths of Scotland. Early
In the text, the author rams many underdeveloped snippets together haphazardly; however, he later seems to hit his stride, and the legends become more developed with more detail. He comes close to developing a haunting atmosphere in places but never quite seems to get there. Also there are a number of grammatical errors such as missing commas in parallels and no period on the last sentence of the book. Worst yet, using “knew” instead of “new.” Errors happen in the composition process, but editors are vital.
In the text, the author rams many underdeveloped snippets together haphazardly; however, he later seems to hit his stride, and the legends become more developed with more detail. He comes close to developing a haunting atmosphere in places but never quite seems to get there. Also there are a number of grammatical errors such as missing commas in parallels and no period on the last sentence of the book. Worst yet, using “knew” instead of “new.” Errors happen in the composition process, but editors are vital.
July 8, 2017
For those who have visited and those that wish toy. c
As the title suggests the book is full of tales that are often kept from the sporting colorful picture presented to tourists. As With England and Ireland such long historical societies seem to have it all.Murders,wars,love stories and ghosts all have a part in the fabric of Scotland. It is a beautiful country with proud and friendly people. I hope to return to visit the sites the author so clearly describes.
As the title suggests the book is full of tales that are often kept from the sporting colorful picture presented to tourists. As With England and Ireland such long historical societies seem to have it all.Murders,wars,love stories and ghosts all have a part in the fabric of Scotland. It is a beautiful country with proud and friendly people. I hope to return to visit the sites the author so clearly describes.
January 31, 2018
Nice collection of historical figures, myths and legends, some well known such as the Brahan Seer and Burke & Hare, others less so like Christie Cleek the Perth Cannibal and the ghosts of Rait and Comlongon Castles.
The 'bite-size' nature of the stories leant itself nicely to reading a chapter or two between other books which is why it took 7 months to read.
If you like things that go bump in the night or the slightly murkier legends of the past then this book is worth a look.
The 'bite-size' nature of the stories leant itself nicely to reading a chapter or two between other books which is why it took 7 months to read.
If you like things that go bump in the night or the slightly murkier legends of the past then this book is worth a look.
May 22, 2018
Victory to Clan MacDonald!!!!
This was a very interesting book and I loved reading about these strange tales. Scotland has a long varied history. I am amazed that there are still people alive named MacDonald. They were involved in almost every conflict or clan war. They fought and died because they were proud and stubborn. Nothing has changed. Great book! I would definitely read a volume II of strange tales of Scotland.
This was a very interesting book and I loved reading about these strange tales. Scotland has a long varied history. I am amazed that there are still people alive named MacDonald. They were involved in almost every conflict or clan war. They fought and died because they were proud and stubborn. Nothing has changed. Great book! I would definitely read a volume II of strange tales of Scotland.
November 13, 2018
Strange and Unique Tales of Scottish Lore
This was a wonderful book about many of the strange and unique tales of Scottish lore. Ghosts, fairies, castles, monsters and more are related in this fascinating book. The author gives bits of history and locations to visit. The long rich history is filled with many battles and their tragic outcomes. A wonderful read for history buffs and lovers of cultural lore.
This was a wonderful book about many of the strange and unique tales of Scottish lore. Ghosts, fairies, castles, monsters and more are related in this fascinating book. The author gives bits of history and locations to visit. The long rich history is filled with many battles and their tragic outcomes. A wonderful read for history buffs and lovers of cultural lore.
March 8, 2020
Pretty good for this type of book
I thought this was pretty good for this type of book. It seemed like the more historical the person or place the more wild and strange the story. I really like the fingerless piper story. I also liked how many of the stories involved some exchange with devil. This, and also having more than one version of the story, seems to be the status quo in Scottish lore.
I thought this was pretty good for this type of book. It seemed like the more historical the person or place the more wild and strange the story. I really like the fingerless piper story. I also liked how many of the stories involved some exchange with devil. This, and also having more than one version of the story, seems to be the status quo in Scottish lore.
December 30, 2020
Paperback - from Muzette
'Scary' things in different cultures are interesting. No matter where you're from, there's probably a ghost story or monster in your heritage's background. I grew up with La Llorona so reading about similar stories in other cultures makes me wonder. I wish the author had gone for the premium editor package instead of sale edition. It offered up some good stories but was a bit difficult to read. Too many run on sentences, too many names/cities/castles to keep straight and too many ; and : got in the way. Thanks for the birthday gift from my wonderful friend!!
'Scary' things in different cultures are interesting. No matter where you're from, there's probably a ghost story or monster in your heritage's background. I grew up with La Llorona so reading about similar stories in other cultures makes me wonder. I wish the author had gone for the premium editor package instead of sale edition. It offered up some good stories but was a bit difficult to read. Too many run on sentences, too many names/cities/castles to keep straight and too many ; and : got in the way. Thanks for the birthday gift from my wonderful friend!!
January 3, 2021
I did enjoy finding out about Scottish myths and folklore, but, whilst some had been grouped together logically, I felt that some were a bit "samey" at later sections in the book. What spoilt it the most for me was the desperate need for a damned good edit. That being said, I learned a fair bit about cultural monsters. This book is definitely an excellent resource for story ideas, though.
Enjoyable, but needs work.
Enjoyable, but needs work.
January 15, 2023
Strange Tales of Scotland by Jack Strange is a wonderful and spooky collection of tales and lores from Scotland, mostly the Highlands. It’s narrated by a Scottish man with the most amazing brogue. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Some parts were scary enough to keep me huddled in bed when I really needed to go to the bathroom at night.
My fave tales were the Brahman seer and the grey man. And the fairies. And the MacLeod flag. So good. If you’re interested in ancient ghost tales, this is up your alley!
My fave tales were the Brahman seer and the grey man. And the fairies. And the MacLeod flag. So good. If you’re interested in ancient ghost tales, this is up your alley!
March 27, 2024
In the planning of a Scotland trip, I found this book of interest. I listened to the audio which had some ambiance in the narrator’s tone and inflection. The stories, myths, yarns, etc… are stories of fairies, mysterious deaths, secret pacts and such. It was more of a 3.75 for me. The book os relatively short but that makes it easier to read or listen to a an okd wife’s tale and then put it down.
April 13, 2018
Strange but true.
I have been to Scotland twice, particularly the outer Hebrides where my daughter owns a house. It is such an ancient land with evidence of prehistory in the standing Stone circles and monasteries from the earliest Christians. It is so far north and on the north atlantic just the weather alone created an atmosphere of mystery.
I have been to Scotland twice, particularly the outer Hebrides where my daughter owns a house. It is such an ancient land with evidence of prehistory in the standing Stone circles and monasteries from the earliest Christians. It is so far north and on the north atlantic just the weather alone created an atmosphere of mystery.
October 16, 2018
Eerily inspiring
Jack Strange writes about his countries history like an ancient bard, he draws you in with a sense of wonder at this dark and foreboding place filled with such horror and beauty.
Engaging and making me want to do a tour of Scotland and a revisit to Edinburgh to see what I've missed in the past.
Jack Strange writes about his countries history like an ancient bard, he draws you in with a sense of wonder at this dark and foreboding place filled with such horror and beauty.
Engaging and making me want to do a tour of Scotland and a revisit to Edinburgh to see what I've missed in the past.
November 28, 2019
A collection of the myths, folk tales, and legends of Scotland. Some, one is more familiar with Loch Ness, the Roslin Chapel.to name a few. To hear of others was interesting, the haunting stories of the caves. The narration by Nigel Peever was superb. Given ARC audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
January 5, 2020
A good collection of Scottish Tales. Some I'd heard before but others were new to me. I particularly enjoyed:
* Curse of the Egyptian Bone
* Sawney Bean
* The Brahan Seer
* The Big Grey Man of Ben Macdhui
* Bodies of Doctor Knox
* Wolf of Badenoch
The author appears to have a good sense of humour, a pity there wasn't more of it.
* Curse of the Egyptian Bone
* Sawney Bean
* The Brahan Seer
* The Big Grey Man of Ben Macdhui
* Bodies of Doctor Knox
* Wolf of Badenoch
The author appears to have a good sense of humour, a pity there wasn't more of it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews