A look at a current news item through the lens of different titles available on GVRL.
By Michelle Eickmeyer
Long live the Queen! Or at least, long live the Kingdom. The Scottish people have spoken and they, and their country, will maintain their place as part of the United Kingdom. Why did they decide to join in the first place? What are some of the motivators for separation now? What does it mean to me, or you, or a student coming through your library door?
Here are five titles that look at Scotland from different perspectives:
Ah yes, the obligatory Braveheart reference. But in all seriousness, it is often easier (and more interesting) for some people to learn about, remember, and understand when its told in story form complete with Hollywood wizardry. Yes, yes, the “factual accuracy” of some of the finer points can be debated for hours… but couldn’t that be a worthwhile exercise itself?!
Be it a wedding, a battle or just laying around the house, many cultures of the world include the kilt as a staple of the male wardrobe. For the Scots, family heritage is indicated in the fabric pattern and color. But what’s the story with kilts anyway? And what about the sporran (the purse/fanny-pack of the kilt world)? Discover the interesting, and sometimes hilarious, history of kilts and other traditional dress.
Junior Worldmark Encyclopedia of World Cultures, 2nd Edition. UXL, 2012
Providing a concise history of 315 cultures from around the globe, students, teachers and librarians looking to brush up on their Scot trivia will not be disappointed. Information on the history, language, location, clothing, family life, traditions, religious practices and more allow readers to capture the facts and spirit of this proud people. (And you’ll learn that the Scottish word for tired is ‘wabbit.’ There you go!)
Berkshire Encyclopedia of World History, 2nd Edition. Berkshire Publishing Group, 2010.
It is MONUMENTAL that the option for Scotland to separate from the British Empire is taking place, mostly peacefully, in a vote. The American Revolution, the Anglo-Irish War, the Mau Mau Rebellion. The history of seceding from the Brits has not been this simple. Rest assured, the British Empire is still going strong. Learn more about this global powerhouse in a section dedicated to the Empire.
Europe 1450-1789: Encyclopedia of the Early Modern World, 1st Edition. Charles Scribner’s Sons, 2004
As with most things, it’s best to start at the beginning. Including articles dedicated to the Glorious Revolution in 1689, English political parties, and Edinburgh, a complete history of Scotland is available in this multi-volume title.
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About the Author
Michelle is an “anytime!” traveler and language enthusiast. She has degrees in talking from Central Michigan and Michigan State University. She is currently becoming a runner and used to play golf in high school.
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