Last Saturday, I was lucky enough to attend a lovely event at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh. James Spence and Dan Serridge told the old story of Thomas the Rhymer, part of Scottish Borders folklore. James is from Jedburgh and Dan is from Cumbria which gave rise to one story in two ways, one from each side of the Border. This was a very moving performance and I am so glad I went.
James has just published his latest book, Scottish Borders Folk Tales. He tells stories and writes in Scots and his storytelling voice comes through. Even although you don’t speak Scots, if you stick at it, understanding does come.
I also splurged out on the newest edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The illustrator is Jim Kay whose illustrations are wonderful. I will be taking this to Holy Trinity PS in Berwick-upon-Tweed at the end of June for their Camping Day – everybody in tents pretending they are at Glastonbury. This will be my first Camping Day with loads of fun and activities and some quiet time reading and telling stories.
As for myself, I am reading Wendy Wood’s People of the Glen, published in 1955. Every story is about a country skill, some long gone! She too has the storyteller’s voice.
Happy Reading!!!
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