A good book to pair with this reading might be - In Praise Of Scotland, Paul Harper
Scotland is satisfactorily summarised succinctly in this brief book backed by habitual hints of humour, and enlightening education for the delightful tourist in mind.
The seemingly-enduring and somewhat intimidating number of things, that you indeed need to know about Scotland, is balanced in equilibrium by the textual style being very easy to read, and, throughout each chapter the information expressed are in small sectional sub-headings and paragraphs for the rudimentary understanding of Scotland's history in culture, politics, education, battles, and scenic castle-glen-hill-loch hotspots: A perfect package for fueling the fiery desire in explorers, travellers, and visitors to come to Scotland.
The positive in bringing to light 1,000 things about Scotland in this small book is the pride of sharing to others, and showing that Scotland - Caledonia's "bairns" - has contributed a lot, as well as inviting further study in to more interesting and controversial subjects. The negative to this is, how ever numerous it may be - and it is by no means exhaustive - it is to be reminded that the book is quite brief by nature, and so with each topic there comes more to the story at hand than is expressed.
An interesting “pick and mix” of Scottish facts covering history, landscape, sport and politics. Would make a good gift for someone with no knowledge of the country but a lack of index makes it of less value as a work of reference.