The Nickum

by Doris Davidson

Willie Fowlie's grandmother calls him a 'nickum' as he is a mischievous Aberdeenshire boy who often acts instinctively, bearing little or no consideration for the consequences of his actions. This often gets him into trouble, from the age of 11 right up to volunteering for the Gordon Highlanders in 1941.

361 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[SHARON · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely story

I really enjoyed this book. It should be compulsory reading for expectant mothers. I can relate to Emily. It's only when your children are grown up that you can reminisce, laugh and realise how proud you actually are of them. It's a privileged to be a part of their lives. Hindsight is a wonderful thing.

[Jean · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sweet story, a bit obviously contrived but a window into domestic rural life in the early 1900’s and Second World War. I particularly enjoyed that it was set in my beloved Aberdeenshire and the local dialect was used.

[Kim Innes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book from start to finish

I feel sorry for Emily losing a daughter to murder and her son to war

Happy Millie found someone for her and billy

[Jennifer Sciolino-Moore · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was definitely a pleasure to read. The story itself was engaging and the Scotch vernacular easy to get the hang of. It has earned a place on my bookshelf. That said, it was really the last 1/4 of the novel that earned its position. There were a few things threat kept it from being fantastic...first, Willie's middle sister could have been totally written out without any ill effect on the story. The eldest sister also, if put to it. They seemed to be added for length rather than effect. Next, while Willie's childhood friend held a spot in the beginning of the novel, the relationship wasn't written nearly well enough to warrant its prominence in the latter half.
The relationship with Millie was well-wrought, and saved the whole.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of the best books I've read in quite a while. I liked the way it was written and, being Scottish myself, I had no problem with any of the Scots slang. Unlike Jennifer, it was the ending that ruined it for me. I think the book should have finished with the aftermath of what happened to Willie, instead of dragging on for length. The various things Willie got up to as a child were my favourite parts and his character was written brilliantly. Overall it was a great read and I would definitely recommend it.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book I've read in a long time, just couldn't put it down. Thanks Fiona for lending it to me