Subject
Orkney (Scotland) -- Fiction Books
Best books
Walter Scott
The Pirate Andrew Lang Edition
"The Pirate" by Walter Scott is a novel published in 1821. Set in the Shetland Islands at the end of the 17th century, it tells the story of young Mordaunt, whose friendship with the Troil sisters is shattered by the arrival of a mysterious shipwrecked captain named Cleveland. As rivalry grows between the two men, Minna falls for the charismatic stranger, unaware of his dark secret. When pirates capture the Troils, hidden identities are revealed and loyalties tested in this tale of romance and adventure.
Amelia E. Barr
An Orkney Maid
"An Orkney Maid" by Amelia E. Barr is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story revolves around the lives of the Ragnor family in Kirkwall, Orkney, particularly focusing on the dynamics between the characters Conall Ragnor, his wife Rahal, their daughter Thora, and the young seafarer Boris. The narrative captures the subtleties of their daily lives, familial relationships, and societal expectations set against the backdrop of the Orkney Islands. The opening portion introduces the reader to the picturesque setting of Kirkwall and its rich local history. It elaborates on the Ragnor household, detailing the characters' personalities and interactions. We see Thora preparing for a celebratory gathering and the anticipation surrounding her brother Boris’s return with news from his sailing adventures. The familial dynamics are further unveiled as characters discuss Thora’s dress, the social expectations placed on her, and the community’s views on love and marriage, all hinting at deeper emotional currents that will shape their lives. The lively exchanges between family members underscore the blend of affection, tradition, and the inevitable changes approaching their way of life.
Robert Leighton
The Pilots of Pomona: A Story of the Orkney Islands
"The Pilots of Pomona: A Story of the Orkney Islands" by Robert Leighton is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the Orkney Islands during the mid-19th century, the story centers on the life of Halcro Ericson, a young boy navigating his childhood amidst the maritime culture of Stromness. With themes of friendship, adventure, and local lore, the narrative delves into Halcro's experiences as he interacts with the sea, local legends, and the relationships with his peers, including his schoolmaster and family. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Halcro, who is late for school after indulging in fishing off a pier. His thoughts revolve around the joys of fishing and his frustrations with a schoolmate, Tom Kinlay. The opening chapters establish not only the scenic beauty of the Orcadian setting but also Halcro's relationship with his family and the pressures he faces at school. As he navigates his way through his day, differences with Tom escalate, hinting at deeper themes of rivalry and resilience. We also meet figures like Andrew Drever, the kind-hearted schoolmaster, and Halcro’s father, Sandy Ericson, the esteemed local pilot, setting the stage for the adventures and challenges that will unfold in this richly woven tale of youth and the sea.
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