2023 News Archive
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Tom and Murray on BBC Radio Scotland
23nd December 2023 Tom Christie and Murray Cook, authors of Scotland's Christmas, have been guests on BBC Radio Scotland's popular Drivetime discussion show. Interviewed by journalist and presenter Fiona Stalker, Murray and Tom talked about how early midwinter festivals laid the foundations for the modern Scottish Christmas, explored the reasons why Christmas celebrations were banned for so long, and explain why the customs and traditions of the festive season have remained so perennially popular over the centuries. The programme is available to hear on the BBC Radio Scotland website for the next 30 days. To access it, please visit: https://www.bbc.co.uk/schedules/p00fzl8d/2023/12/22 |
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Murray and Tom in History Scotland
22nd December 2023 Many thanks to History Scotland magazine for featuring Tom Christie and Murray Cook's new book Scotland's Christmas in their January/February 2024 issue. The feature appears on pages 28-29 and explores Scotland's earliest Christmases - the midwinter celebrations which predated our modern festive traditions. It delves into prehistoric practices, the influence of the Romans, and even the impact of the Vikings on the way that Scotland came to celebrate the festive season. For more information about History Scotland magazine, including how to find their latest edition, please visit their website at: https://www.historyscotland.com/ |
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Christmas on the Air at Newstalk and Times Radio
18th December 2023 There's been some festive magic on the air recently, thanks to Newstalk and Times Radio. On Friday 15th December, Extremis Publishing's resident Mr Christmas, Dr Tom Christie, was interviewed about the history of Christmas movies by journalist and broadcaster Seán Moncrieff on The Moncrieff Show, on top Irish radio station Newstalk. What are the origins of Christmas cinema, what have come to be considered the golden ages of the genre, and does Die Hard count as a Christmas movie? All of these topics were explored and more besides. The interview can be accessed from Newstalk's website here: https://www.newstalk.com/podcasts/highlights-from-moncrieff/the-golden-age-of-christmas-movies Then, on Saturday 16th December, Tom was joined by his friend and co-author Dr Murray Cook for a discussion of their new book Scotland's Christmas with Times Radio presenter Hugo Rifkind on the ever-popular The Hugo Rifkind Show. The interview covered everything from Scotland being the first place in the UK to report a visit from Santa Claus all the way through to Christmas folklore such as the terrifying chimney demon of the Western Isles! You can hear the inferview on the Times Radio website at: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/radio/show/20231216-21271/2023-12-16 Enormous thanks to Newstalk and Times Radio for having made this possible. |
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Remembering 1950s Christmas Toys on Traditionally Speaking
15th December 2023 In this month's edition of the Traditionally Speaking podcast, the focus is on the festive toys of the fifties. There can be few decades more iconic than the 1950s, and that was also certainly true of the Christmas toys of the era. In this episode, Tom and Joe take a nostalgic trip back in time to see what toys and games were being enjoyed by kids in the fifties. What favourites under the Christmas tree are still bringing joy today, and which have been forgotten by the passing decades? To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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Excerpts from A Very Spectrum Christmas on Jeeni
14th December 2023 Do you like Christmas? Do you like retro computer games? Well, we've got some good news for you! A range of chapters from Tom Christie's book A Very Spectrum Christmas have been narrated by the author and are now available to hear, free of charge to listeners. Many people received a Sinclair ZX Spectrum home microcomputer as a treasured Christmas present back in the eighties, and those fond memories of festive gaming are brought back to life in A Very Spectrum Christmas, which showcases some of the nostalgic delights from the heyday of that golden age of gaming. Tom has chosen a selection of chapters which spotlight some of the most memorable Christmas computer games ever to grace Sir Clive Sinclair's much-loved dream machine. The excerpts from A Very Spectrum Christmas are hosted on Jeeni, the famous ethical audio streaming service. To access the readings, please visit our audiobook page for more details. |
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Scotland's Christmas Video Feature: Murray at Stirling Castle
12th December 2023 Filmed by kind permission of Stirling Castle, archaeologist Dr Murray Cook talks about Scotland's Christmas - the new guide to Christmas in Scotland - in the beautifully-preserved Royal Quarters of Stirling Castle. Take a look at this incredible historical site, which is of European significance, while hearing about the new book. To view the feature, please visit our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/0suOy0mT_FY |
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Tom in VICE Magazine
11th December 2023 Today on VICE Magazine's website, Extremis Pubilshing's resident Mr Christmas, Dr Tom Christie, has featured as an interview contributor in a new article about festive cinema. Written by journalist Eloise Hendy, 'Was 2006 the Year of the Last Good Christmas Film?' brings together film historians and cultural commentators with an interest in Christmas films and asks them whether the quality of this much-loved category of film has diminished in recent years. To read the article in full, please visit the VICE Magazine website at: https://www.vice.com/en/article/qjvmd5/why-are-christmas-movies-so-bad-now |
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Scotland's Christmas in The Sunday Post
10th December 2023 Many thanks to The Sunday Post for featuring our new book, Scotland's Christmas, in today's edition. Appearing in the Sunday 10th December issue, journalist Ross Crae interviews authors Dr Tom Christie and Dr Murray Cook about their work on the book, in a feature which covers everything from ancient midwinter rituals all the way through to chimney demons! The article appears on page 13 of today's edition, or you can read it online at: https://www.pressreader.com/uk/the-sunday-post-inverness/20231210/281732684265923 |
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Classic Poetry Readings for Christmas
9th December 2023 As the countdown to Christmas continues, Extremis Publishing would like to present a festive audio special where a selection of our authors read classic Christmas poems of yesteryear. Some are well-known favourites, while others are just waiting to be rediscovered by modern audiences. The poetry includes works by Christina Rossetti, Clement Clarke Moore, Kenneth Grahame, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Margaret Deland, Robert Herrick, Robert Burns, and an old traditional verse. Hopefully they will provide plenty of yuletide nostalgia to get you into the mood for the festive season. The Christmas poetry selection is hosted on Jeeni, the famous ethical audio streaming service. To access the readings, please visit our audiobook page for more details. |
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Many Thanks to Legends at the Monument
8th December 2023 Huge thanks to ever-popular Stirling venue Legends at the Monument for inviting authors Dr Tom Christie and Dr Murray Cook to talk about their new book Scotland's Christmas. Tom and Murray gave a presentation about the history and traditions of Christmas in Scotland, and were delighted to take questions from the audience and then to autograph copies of the book for anyone who wanted to purchase one. Legends also has a supply of copies of the book available in their shop, which could well be the perfect gift this festive season! |
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Scotland's Christmas Video Feature: The New Union Chippie
7th December 2023 Camelon's New Union Chippie was the first fish and chip shop in Scotland to deep fry traditional mince pies, and later became the first business to deep fry pigs in blankets - now both hugely popular in the approach to Christmas. In this video, owner Jim Beck and his assistant Keyana demonstrate the art behind these distinctive festive treats, recorded live at his shop in Camelon near Falkirk. To view the feature, please visit our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/4ylBznhImNU |
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Scotland's Christmas Festive Podcast Special
5th December 2023 In this month's special festive edition of the Extremis Publishing Podcast, Santa Joe Moore of the North Pole Press Presents interviews Tom Christie and Murray Cook, authors of Scotland's Christmas - the first full-length account of the history and traditions of Christmas in Scotland ever to be published. The pair share some unexpected tales from past and present which might just surprise even the most ardent fan of Christmas. A video version of the podcast can be found at https://youtu.be/o4itXL2Nk3E, while an audio version can be accessed on all your favourite streaming audio sites as well as our podcast page. |
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Scotland's Christmas Video Feature: Tom in Culross
3rd December 2023 The historic Fife town of Culross is always in high demand amongst film and TV producers, and never more so than when it comes to Christmas. In this video feature, Dr Tom Christie - co-author of Scotland's Christmas - visits the town and explains why Scotland has become such a beloved destination for film-makers. To view the feature, please visit our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/vN0zn7ZqkJA |
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Merry Christmas from Extremis Publishing
1st December 2023 Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Extremis Publishing team. We hope you will have a fantastic festive season, wherever you might be, and wishing all of our readers a great year ahead in 2024! With many thanks to everyone who was kind enough to take part in the filming for this year's video, and with a special note of thanks to Carla Cumming and Nick Comley of Stirling Castle. To view the video, please visit our YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deBztIpxKdk |
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Festive Felicitations at Dundee's McManus Art Gallery & Museum
29th November 2023 Coming up on Saturday 2nd December between 10am and 4pm, by kind invitation of Leisure and Culture Dundee, Extremis Publishing will be at the inaugural McManus Art Gallery and Museum Christmas Market. Copies of our new book Scotland's Christmas will be on sale, and one of its two authors - Dr Tom Christie - will be on hand to sign and personalise copies for anyone who wants to purchase one. Also present from around midday will be author Robert Murray, who will be selling and autographing books from his much-loved The Grocer's Boy trilogy which is set in and around Tayside. The event will be showcasing some of the wonderful independent makers, businesses and suppliers from across Scotland. There will also be festive-themed family-friendly crafts, activities and storytelling throughout the day, with the McManus Café serving up delicious food and hot drinks. For more details about the event, please visit the McManus website at: https://www.mcmanus.co.uk/ |
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Awards Congratulations to James Herriot
28th November 2023 Many congratulations to Callerton co-founder James R.A. Herriot, author of The Sabbatical, on being conferred the Services to the Industry Award at the Designerati Awards 2023. This prestigious honour, which was announced at London's famous Wembley Stadium, marks James's unstinting dedication to kitchen design over a long and illustrious career in the industry, with his company Callerton Kitchens & Interiors recently celebrating forty years in business. Sincerest compliments to James on this truly remarkable achievement. |
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Stirling Rocks at the Church of the Holy Rude
27th November 2023 Enormous thanks to Stirling District Tourism for inviting us to their inaugural Stirling Rocks conference. This amazing day-long event took place in the beautiful and historic Church of the Holy Rude on Saturday 25th November, and explored the impact the city of Stirling has had over the years on the nation of Scotland. The event featured talks from Dr Murray Cook, Dr Fiona Watson and Professor Murray Pittock, as well as a guided tour revealing some of the secrets of Stirling's Old Cemetery. Many guests had come along to discover and celebrate the hidden history of Scotland's smallest city, and Extremis Publishing was just one of the organisations who were on hand to talk about the many reasons why Stirling is such an incredible place to live and work - especially for those of us who are involved in arts, culture and the humanities. Thanks again to the organisers for an outstanding day, and for all of the fantastic people who we met while we were there. |
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Many Thanks to Doune Library
24th November 2023 Huge thanks to Doune Library for their very kind invitation to present a special event on the subject of our new book, Scotland's Christmas. Authors Dr Murray Cook and Dr Tom Christie were on hand to discuss some of the many distinctive customs and practices of Christmas in Scotland, and to take questions from the audience. Thanks to the library's staff for having provided such a warm welcome, as well as a wonderful selection of refreshments afterwards. It was a genuine pleasure to have visited this historic town, and to have met so many amazing people at the event. |
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New Legends at the Monument Presentation for Christmas
23rd November 2023 Coming up soon, authors Tom Christie and Murray Cook will be appearing at Stirling's ever-popular Legends at the Monument to give a presentation about their new book, Scotland's Christmas. Taking place on Thursday 7th December at 7pm, the talk will be delving into the history and culture of Christmas in Scotland, with many little-known tales and unexpected anecdotes. Copies of the book will be available to purchase on the night, and can be autographed and personalised by the authors on request. For further details, and to book tickets in advance, please visit Stirling District Tourism's EventBrite page at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/more-on-the-history-and-culture-of-christmas-in-scotland-tickets-761301893457 |
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Christmas Movie Talk Coming Soon
21st November 2023 Fast approaching on Friday 1st December, Dr Tom Christie will be giving a lecture on the history of Christmas cinema by kind invitation of Leisure and Culture Dundee. Taking place at Dundee Central Library from 2:30pm, Tom will be talking about how Christmas movies have changed over the decades before exploring the ways that Scotland has become an increasingly popular filming location for festive movies in recent years. He will also be autographing and personalising copies of his books on the subject for anyone who would like to purchase one. Admission to the presentation is free, but everyone who would like to attend the event must reserve their place in advance to avoid disappointment. To book your space, and for further details about the lecture, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/christmas-on-film-a-talk-by-dr-tom-christie-tickets-739285351387 |
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Festive Surprises at Stirling Castle
20th November 2023 On Tuesday 5th December, Stirling Castle will be holding their ever-popular Christmas Shopping Fair - an annual event which promises to offer some amazing surprises. With stalls showcasing the very best of local Scottish brands, crafts and fine foods and drink, the Christmas shopping fair is an event that is not to be missed. Visitors can also enjoy wonderful music from a brass band and tuck into delicious mince pies and mulled wine. Starting at 6pm, Extremis Publishing will be there on the night with copies of our latest release Scotland's Christmas, and authors Tom Christie and Murray Cook will be on hand to talk about the book as well as to sign and personalise copies for anyone who would like to purchase one. For more information, please visit the festive events section of the Stirling Castle website at: https://www.stirlingcastle.scot/whatson/events/christmas-shopping-fair/ |
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Green Fingers on This Month's Traditionally Speaking Podcast
15th November 2023 In this month's episode of the Traditionally Speaking podcast, the focus is on the famous flora of Christmas. They've long been a staple of the holiday season, but how did poinsettias become such a well-loved decorative Christmas plant? And what made the connection between the Christmas cactus and the festive season? In this episode, Tom and Joe discuss these horticultural additions to the yuletide tradition and explain just why so many people love to have them in their homes over the holidays. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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Scotland's Christmas Book Events Coming Up Soon
9th November 2023 With Christmas well on the way, Extremis Publishing will be involved in a number of special events this festive season, where the public can meet the authors of our new book Scotland's Christmas, Tom Christie and Murray Cook; speak to them about the book; and purchase autographed and personalised copies.
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Christmas Goodies Abound Inside Santa's Magic Chest!
8th November 2023 Would you like to channel your inner elf? With Santa's Magic Chest, exclusive to the North Pole Press on Etsy, you can find a plethora of amazing gifts from bespoke clothing to beautifully illustrated books, and many other surprises besides. You won't want to miss this unique collection of festive items, so be sure to check out their Etsy Store at: https://www.etsy.com/shop/santasmagicchest |
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Scotland's Christmas in Forth Valley College News and Events
7th November 2023 Many thanks to Forth Valley College for featuring our new book Scotland's Christmas in their News and Events showcase. In an article by Stuart Hall, authors Thomas A. Christie and Murray Cook - both associate lecturers with Forth Valley College's Stirling Campus - are featured for their lecture series on the subjects of publishing and archaeology respectively, as well as their co-operation on the first ever full-length account of Christmas in Scotland. The article can be read in full at the Forth Valley College website here: https://www.forthvalley.ac.uk/news-events/evening-lecturers-in-the-literary-limelight/ |
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Festive Events at Stirling Castle
3rd November 2023 Extremis Publishing is delighted to be playing a part in the festivities at historic Stirling Castle this December. With our new book Scotland's Christmas appearing both at the Stirling Castle Christmas Market and also at Afternoon Teas throughout December, authors Tom Christie and Murray Cook will be on hand to discuss the book and sign copies. For more information about all of the festive events taking place at Stirling Castle this year, please visit their website at: https://www.stirlingcastle.scot/whatson/festive/ - and don't forget to book early to avoid disappointment! Image is Copyright © Historic Environment Scotland, all rights reserved. |
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New Podcast with Stirling District Tourism
2nd November 2023 Scotland's tourism sector is the focus of this month's Extremis Publishing Podcast. Tracey MacIntosh, General Manager of Stirling District Tourism, drops by for a discussion about this remarkable organisation which is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and cultural heritage of the CIty of Stirling. Find out more about the many amazing events they have coming up over the months ahead. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. |
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Scottish Parliamentary Motion Congratulates Extremis Publishing
30th October 2023 Many thanks to Stirling's Member of the Scottish Parliament, Evelyn Tweed MSP, for naming Extremis Publishing in a Scottish Parliamentary Motion to congratulate our company on having won Independent Publishing Company of the Year at the Scotland Prestige Awards over three consecutive years. The Parliamentary Motion has received cross-party support, and is hugely appreciated by everyone here at Extremis Publishing. To view the Scottish Parliamentary Motion in full, please visit the Scottish Parliament website at: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/votes-and-motions/S6M-10966 |
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More Writing for Publication at Forth Valley College
25th October 2023 Sincere thanks to everyone who attended Dr Tom Christie's latest Writing for Publication course at Forth Valley College's Stirling Campus. The lecture series ran for six weeks between September and October, and covered all of the major issues involved in preparing a book for the publishing process. Special thanks to the Forth Valley College staff for making the course possible, and for all of their much-appreciated support throughout the series. If you missed the series and would still like to take part, there's good news - by kind invitation of Forth Valley College, Tom will be delivering a new brand new course of his popular lecture series at the Stirling Campus in Drip Road, Stirling, FK8 1SE. The course will run between 23rd January and 5th March 2024, with weekly sessions from 6pm-8pm every Tuesday evening, and will cover a variety of topics relating to today's publishing industry. To find out more about the course, or to reserve a place, please visit Forth Valley College's website at: https://www.forthvalley.ac.uk/courses/creative-industries-and-media/writing-for-publication-evening |
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Extremis Publishing Wins Independent Publishing Company of the Year at Scotland Prestige Awards for Third Consecutive Year
24th October 2023 Many thanks to the Scotland Prestige Awards, which has named Extremis Publishing the Independent Publishing Company of the Year for 2023/24. The prize was conferred for the third consecutive year to Extremis Publishing's directors Julie Christie and Tom Christie at the beautiful Barony Castle Hotel in Peebles on Monday 23rd October. The judging panel based their decisions upon areas such as service excellence, quality of the products and services provided, innovative practices, value, ethical and sustainable methods of working, and consistency in performance. We would like to thank everyone involved in the awards for such an unforgettable day, and to all of our authors and business associates who continue to make it all possible. |
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Scotland's Christmas in Books from Scotland
23rd October 2023 Feeling festive yet? With only eight weeks to go until the holidays, Books from Scotland magazine has kindly featured our new release Scotland's Christmas in their latest issue. In an article by Patrick Jamieson, authors Tom Christie and Murray Cook take part in a lively interview about the influences behind the book, what readers can expect to find in its exploration of Christmas in Scotland, and their own festive experiences over the years. To read the interview in full, as well as many other features about new literary releases from all over Scotland, you can access the November/December issue of Books from Scotland at the following link: https://booksfromscotland.com/2023/10/scotlands-christmas-a-qa-with-thomas-christie-and-murray-cook/ |
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James Featured in Designerati
17th October 2023 Congratulations to James R.A. Herriot, author of The Sabbatical, on his recent appearance in Designerati - the UK's leading design magazine. Designerati has been inspiring project creativity across design, architecture, furniture and the workplace since its inception in 2000. In a wide-ranging feature, James speaks with journalist Martin Allen-Smith about the changes and challenges that have been faced by the British design and manufacturing industry over the past forty years, as well as talking specifically about Callerton Kitchens and Interiors, the hugely successful company he co-founded in 1982 and which has recently celebrated its fortieth anniversary. To read the full interview with James, please visit the official Designerati website at: https://designerati.co.uk/2023/10/03/british-design-why-past-lessons-pave-the-future-path/ |
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Christmas Feasting with Traditionally Speaking
13th October 2023 In this month's Traditionally Speaking podcast, we take a look at the beloved tradition of Christmas dinner. What would the festive season be like without a plethora of delicious food? In this episode, Tom and Joe take a look at Christmas feasting and explore the differences between the UK and the USA when it comes to enjoying dinner on Christmas Day. What favourites have established themselves, and what dishes have fallen by the wayside over the years? To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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Shop Local (Early!) for Christmas
11th October 2023 Here at Extremis Publishing, we love to support other local businesses in the Stirling area. Did you know that our new book Scotland's Christmas is available to buy from some of the city's favourite retail outlets? You can purchase your copy from Legends at the Monument, The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum, Made in Stirling, The Book Nook and the Church of the Holy Rude Shop. And don't forget that our favourite clootie dumpling specialist, Clootie McToot Dumplings, in Abernethy, is also stocking it in their shop. Why not pop in and see all the great things they have on offer? It might just be the encouragement you need to get your Christmas gifts bought early this year! |
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Tinsel and Tartan Takes Centre Stage in New Podcast
4th October 2023 In this month's episode of the Extremis Publishing Podcast, we pay a visit to the famous Tinsel and Tartan store in Stirling's Spittal Street. Tinsel and Tartan is one of the most beloved Christmas retail destinations in Scotland, and is certainly a highlight for people visiting the city of Stirling where it is based - guests come from all over the world to see this amazing shop and its unique range of items. In this episode, owner Lyndsey McDermott discusses her business journey - and explains what it's like to keep the festive season alive all the year round! To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. For more information about Tinsel and Tartan, and to see their amazing online store, please visit their website at: https://www.tinselandtartan.co.uk/ |
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Latest New Books Scotland Catalogue Now Available
2nd October 2023 You won't want to miss the latest Autumn/Winter 2023 edition of the New Books Scotland catalogue from Publishing Scotland, which features all the latest titles being released by Scotland's creatively productive publishing industry - including our latest book, Scotland's Christmas! Why not take a look and read about the amazing selection of new titles being published across Scotland this season? For more details about New Books Scotland, including where to download your own copy of the catalogue, check out the Publishing Scotland website at: https://www.publishingscotland.org/what-we-do/our-publications/ |
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Scotland's Christmas Released Today
29th September 2023 Christmas has finally arrived! Scotland's Christmas by Thomas A. Christie and Murray Cook is now available for purchase from all good online retailers and independent booksellers. The authors will be appearing at a number of venues across the country to talk about the book, and to personalise and autograph copies that are purchased by the public. More details about these events will be added to our website and social media channels when confirmed. For more information about how to order the book from participating retailers, please visit our Scotland's Christmas page. There is also a hardback special edition of the book, so for further details please visit the book's page on our website. |
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Thanks to Alyn's Local Heroes
25th September 2023 Huge thanks to Stirling's Member of Parliament, Alyn Smith MP, for announcing Extremis Publishing as a nominee for Alyn's Local Heroes. This initiative seeks to recognise companies based in and around Stirling which seek to go the extra mile for their employees, customers and community. The nomination certificate was kindly presented by Alyn to directors Tom Christie and Julie Christie at Stirling's famous Book Nook in the city's Upper Craigs. For more information about Alyn's Local Heroes, please visit the website at: https://alynsmith.scot/alynslocalheroes/ |
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New Scotland's Christmas Video Promo
20th September 2023 With the release date coming up next week, authors Thomas A. Christie and Murray Cook introduce their new book Scotland's Christmas: Festive Celebrations, Traditions and Customs in Scotland from Samhain to Still Game - an account of Christmas and winter festivals in Scotland extending back 10,000 years, from the earliest celebrations all the way through to modern day customs. To watch the video, please visit our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/8QkKlyzm3Lk |
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Toys Through the Decades with Traditionally Speaking
15th September 2023 In this month's Traditionally Speaking podcast, it's time to have a nostalgic look back at toys over the decades. Were you a child of the eighties - and, if so, do you remember what your favourite Christmas toys were? In this episode, Tom and Joe investigate what the bestselling toys were at Christmas both in the USA and in the UK. What gifts were popular on both sides of the Atlantic, and which were special favourites in each country? Prepare to be amazed at what didn't make the list as much as what does, and get set to dust down your old Rubik's Cube too! To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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A Wulver is Not Just for Christmas
5th September 2023 Have you ever struggled to find just the right Christmas gift? Well, that's not an issue that's ever troubled a Wulver, because the answer is always... a fish. The Wulver is a mythical creature who lived in Shetland, and up to the early twentieth century was known to be a kind and gentle denizen of the islands (in spite of their scary appearance). The Wulver is renowned for leaving fish as a gift for families facing difficulty, and as such in recent years they have become associated with Christmas in Scotland. Wulvers have even been known to help lost travellers find their way to nearby towns. So if you should get lost on your journey, the Wulver was the TripAdvisor of its day! The story of the Wulver, and many more Christmas accounts, can be found in Scotland's Christmas by Thomas A. Christie and Murray Cook. The book is released on the 29th of September, and is available for pre-order now. |
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Creative Veterans Scotland Podcast with DJ Mark Wallace
1st September 2023 In this month's episode of The Extremis Publishing Podcast, popular DJ Mark Wallace drops in for a chat about Creative Veterans Scotland, a group of like-minded veterans and their families who have a passion for arts and drama. Mark also discusses his work in community radio, and talks about how this halcyon medium is enjoying a resurgence in popularity thanks to the latest technology. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. |
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Neil is Back in Action!
24th August 2023 You just can't keep a good author down! Neil Hallam will be attending the internationally-renowned Robin Hood Festival 2023, organised by Visit Sherwood Forest, this coming Bank Holiday weekend - Saturday 26th, Sunday 27th and Monday 28th August. This will be a fantastic opportunity to meet Neil and chat with him about his popular guide book The Robin Hood 500 Route, which details the amazing 500RH road trip following the historic adventures of the world's most famous outlaw. Neil will be selling and autographing copies of the book during the Festival. For more information about the incredible line-up of events at this year's Robin Hood Festival, please check out their official website at: https://www.visitsherwood.co.uk/home/robin-hood-festival-2023/ |
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Tom and Murray on the Road
23rd August 2023 Authors of Scotland's Christmas, Dr Tom Christie and Dr Murray Cook, have been visiting the beautiful and historic Fife town of Culross to promote their new book on the history of the festive season in Scotland. But where did their travels take them - and exactly what links Culross to Christmas in Scotland? All will be revealed soon! |
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Writing for Publication Course Coming Soon
21st August 2023 Just a reminder that the latest session of Dr Tom Christie's lecture series Writing for Publication will be taking place at Forth Valley College's Stirling Campus between 12th September and 24th October 2023, with each instalment running from 6pm-8pm. Places have been going fast and there are now only a handful left, so if you would like to attend then please make a reservation as soon as you can to avoid disappointment. For more details of the course, including how you can reserve your place, please visit the Forth Valley College website at: https://www.forthvalley.ac.uk/courses/creative-industries-and-media/writing-for-publication |
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Neil at the Robin Hood Festival
17th August 2023 The indefatigable Neil Hallam is back in action again! Neil will be appearing at the famous Robin Hood Festival 2023, organised by Visit Sherwood Forest, this weekend - Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th August. He will be meeting the public while selling and autographing copies of his popular guide book The Robin Hood 500 Route, which details the amazing 500RH road trip following the historic adventures of the world's most famous outlaw. For more information about the incredible line-up of events at this year's Robin Hood Festival, why not check out their official website at: https://www.visitsherwood.co.uk/home/robin-hood-festival-2023/ |
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Traditionally Speaking Hangs Up Its Christmas Stocking
15th August 2023 In this month's Traditionally Speaking podcast, the humble Christmas Stocking is the subject of choice. They're placed every year by the chimney with care, in hopes that Saint Nicholas soon would be there - to paraphrase the words of a certain Clement Clarke Moore. But what is the story behind the Christmas stocking, and what does Saint Nicholas actually have to do with the origin of this long-held festive tradition? In this episode, Tom and Joe consider the many different types of gift that can grace Christmas stockings around the world, as well as discussing some very unusual examples of the craft. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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Robert Louis Stevenson: An Unlikely Mr Christmas
11th August 2023 He may well be one of Scotland's best-known literary treasures, but who would have thought that Robert Louis Stevenson had such an interesting connection to Christmas? One of the most prolific and well-known authors of the Victorian era, Stevenson was beloved for novels such as Treasure Island, Kidnapped and The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. But he was to turn his attention to the festive season not once but twice in his career, with the 1887 thriller novella The Misadventures of John Nicholson: A Christmas Story and his reflective yuletide essay A Christmas Sermon in the same year. Neither are among his best-recognised works, and yet they give a fascinating insight into Christmas in an era when the festive season was little celebrated in Scotland. Just don't mention black bun - one of the country's most ubiquitous Christmas treats - as Stevenson famously couldn't stand it! Stevenson's Christmas writing, and many other Scottish literary connections, can be found in Scotland's Christmas: Festive Celebrations, Traditions and Customs in Scotland from Samhain to Still Game by Thomas A. Christie and Murray Cook. The book is currently available for pre-order. For more details about participating online retailers, please visit our Scotland's Christmas page. |
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Joy at EAJS Conference in Belgium
9th August 2023 Professor Joy Hendry will soon be attending the 17th International Conference of the European Association for Japanese Studies (EAJS), hosted by the Institute of Japanese Studies at Ghent University in Belgium. Held between the 17th and 20th August 2023, the conference promises to showcase some of the most exciting and innovative research in the fast-moving field of Japanese Studies, and Joy will have copies of her book An Affair with a Village available for purchase at the event. For more information about the EAJS Conference and its schedule of events, please visit their official website at: https://eajs.eu/eajs-2023-conference/ |
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Extremis Publishing Joins the Scottish Pilgrim Routes Forum
7th August 2023 Extremis Publishing is delighted to announce that it has become a member of the Scottish Pilgrim Routes Forum. The SPRF is a nationwide organisation dedicated to heightening public awareness of the network of individual pilgrim routes located throughout Scotland, with an emphasis on exploring and celebrating the country's cultural heritage. Each of the routes offers a unique experience for visitors, and the organisation is actively involved in the development and promotion of new off-road pilgrimage travel right across Scotland. We look forward to supporting this distinctive, exciting and hard-working forum in attracting guests new and old to the country, and in encouraging people to take their own modern day odyssey around these culturally significant routes of Scotland's ancient past. For more information about the organisation and the many different routes that it is promoting, please visit the SPRF website at: https://www.sprf.org.uk/ |
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Jeeni Podcast with Mel Croucher
3rd August 2023 In this special extended episode of The Extremis Publishing Podcast, computing legend Mel Croucher takes part in a wide-ranging discussion about Jeeni, the pioneering ethical audio streaming platform that he founded which has since reached and entertained audiences all over the world. Mel also talks about creativity, artistic freedom, and his immense contribution to the home computer industry from its formative years through to the present day. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. |
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Murray in the Daily Record
2nd August 2023 Congratulations to Dr Murray Cook, whose archaeological observations have appeared in The Daily Record. Murray was commenting on the remarkable discovery of prehistoric dolphin bones by Stirling resident Paul McDonald, and explains why this exciting find is of international significance. The National Museum of Scotland, Aberdeen University, Rathmell Archaeology and local volunteers have all been involved in the excavation, with further news of their findings still to come. For more information about this amazing story, please visit the Daily Record website at: https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/archaeology-team-stunned-after-finding-30604940 |
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Accessible Summertime Content from Extremis Publishing
28th July 2023 Extremis Publishing are marking the summer holidays with a celebration of all that's unique and exciting about travel writing. With a combination of printed books and free-to-access audio content, we aim to provide a selection of features highlighting different road trips and travel experiences in the United Kingdom and further afield. In partnership with Jeeni, the ethical streaming audio provider, Extremis has released an unabridged audiobook version of their popular guide Secrets and Mysteries of the Heart 200 Route, which provides free-of-charge access to the book showcasing some of the most unusual features of this celebrated route around Stirlingshire and Perthshire. However, the content doesn't stop there, as there are also exclusive spoken word features ranging from Neil Hallam's historical trail The Robin Hood 500 Route to James R.A. Herriot's globetrotting travelogue The Sabbatical. More content is set to be added in the coming weeks. The Extremis social media channels will be highlighting many of our travel books. We'll also be taking a look at the many exciting Scottish literary festivals being held around the country throughout the summer months. The plan is to provide something for everyone's interest in the hope that they will choose to come and see some amazing holiday destinations for themselves. Do you have a book event or literary festival coming up that you'd like to tell us about? If so, contact us and let us know. |
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Thanks to Tinsel and Tartan
27th July 2023 Huge thanks to Lyndsey McDermott, owner of Tinsel and Tartan in Stirling's Spittal Street, for being kind enough to allow us to take photos for our new book Scotland's Christmas in her amazing shop. Lyndsey is shown here between the book's authors, Murray Cook and Tom Christie. Tinsel and Tartan provides a beautiful selection of Christmas decorations and ornaments - many with a uniquely Scottish twist - all the year round, and the shop also stocks a remarkable collection of Scottish souvenirs. For more details, please visit their website and online shop at: https://www.tinselandtartan.co.uk/ |
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Thanks to Sanjeev Kohli
26th July 2023 We would like to thank well-known TV personality Sanjeev Kohli for so kindly providing his highly entertaining foreword for our new book Scotland's Christmas. The book is available for pre-order now, and will be released in September. Sanjeev will soon be going on tour with his popular show An Evening with Sanjeev Kohli. For more information about his live performances, including locations and dates, please visit the Breakneck Comedy website at: https://www.breakneckcomedy.co.uk/comedians/sanjeev-kohli-1 |
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Announcing Scotland's Christmas Now Available for Pre-order
25th July 2023 Merry Christmas (in July)! Extremis Publishing is delighted to announce that Scotland's Christmas: Festive Celebrations, Traditions and Customs in Scotland from Samhain to Still Game is now available for pre-order from today. Thought to be the first full-length study of the subject, the book documents how Scots have celebrated in the coldest and darkest of months from prehistory until the present day (even including those 400 years when we weren't even supposed to!). As told by archaeologist Dr Murray Cook and popular culture specialist Dr Tom Christie, this entertaining history ranges from the earliest winter festivals through to modern customs and traditions including film, television, music and computer games. Scotland’s Christmas includes a foreword by actor, comedian, writer and presenter Sanjeev Kohli. Scotland's Christmas will be released on Friday 29th September 2023, and will be available in paperback as well as a special hardback edition. For more information about the book, including participating retailers where you can pre-order your copy, please visit our pages for Scotland's Christmas and Scotland's Christmas: Special Edition. |
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Coming Soon...
24th July 2023 It's Christmas in July, and it's almost time for a brand new announcement. Watch this space... |
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Extracts from The Robin Hood 500 Route on Jeeni
20th July 2023 Thinking about an epic road trip this summer in England's green and pleasant land? You might just want to consider Neil Hallam's amazing Robin Hood 500 Route, which follows the adventures of the world's most famous outlaw through some of the most beautiful locations England has to offer. If you would like to find out more about this fantastic route and what it has to offer, Neil has recorded a series of exclusive excerpts from his book for Jeeni which outlines the inspirations that lay behind his creation of the concept as well as giving a taster of just some of the fascinating destinations which await you if you should decide to travel the 500RH for yourself. To listen to these spoken word features, please visit Jeeni and start with the following link: https://jeeni.com/track/excerpts-from-the-robin-hood-500-route-part-1 |
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A Taste of Eggnog with Traditionally Speaking
14th July 2023 This month's edition of the Traditionally Speaking podcast focuses on eggnog - a 'love it or hate it' yuletide staple if ever there was one. Eggnog is a comforting seasonal treat which is enjoyed every year throughout the USA, and yet it doesn't play a major part in the Scottish Christmas. However, history shows us that this creamy drink actually originated in the United Kingdom centuries ago... and when exported to North America, it quickly became a favourite of none other than George Washington! In this episode, Tom and Joe have a look at the different varieties of eggnog that are out there, including a little-known Scottish alternative that might just surprise you. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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Neil at Newark Book Festival
6th July 2023 Great news for Robin Hood fans and road trip enthusiasts everywhere - author Neil Hallam will be appearing on Sunday 9th July as part of Newark Book Festival, where he will be participating in their famous Literature Village in Newark Market Place, meeting members of the public, and talking about his fantastic Robin Hood 500 Route. This is the perfect opportunity to meet Neil and talk with him about his work, and the festival is always well-attended with many authors from around the area making an appearance. It promises to be an event that is not to be missed! For more information about Newark Book Festival, please visit their website at: https://www.newarkbookfestival.org.uk/ |
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New Robin Hood 500 Route Podcast
4th July 2023 In this month's episode of the Extremis Publishing Podcast, author Neil Hallam drops by for a chat about his new book, The Robin Hood 500 Route. Neil's 500RH Route takes in some of the most beautiful places in England, and includes many historical sites of interest which relate to the legends surrounding Robin Hood. Neil talks about the inspiration behind this amazing road trip, discusses some of the fascinating places that people can explore when travelling it, and offers a few thoughts about Robin Hood's famous adventures around the area. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. For more information about the Robin Hood 500 Route, please visit the official website at: https://500rh.co.uk/ |
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Back by Popular Demand!
29th June 2023 By kind invitation of Forth Valley College, Dr Tom Christie will be delivering a new session of his popular lecture series Writing for Publication at the Stirling Campus in Drip Road, Stirling, FK8 1SE. The course will run between 12th September and 24th October 2023, weekly from 6pm-8pm every Tuesday evening, and will cover a variety of topics relating to today's publishing industry. Subjects will range from the initial considerations behind having your work published all the way through to copyright matters, financial obligations, adaptation and licensing rights, and many other issues. To find out more about the course, or to reserve a place, please visit Forth Valley College's website at: https://www.forthvalley.ac.uk/courses/creative-industries-and-media/writing-for-publication |
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Happy Anniversary to Callerton Kitchens
22nd June 2023 Congratulations to author of The Sabbatical, James R.A. Herriot, on the 40th anniversary of his company Callerton Kitchens. With studios in Berwick-upon-Tweed and Newcastle, the company has been providing top quality kitchens for the past four decades. The anniversary event, taking place at Sunderland's famous Fire Station, commemorated the company's development in the years since its founders Gordon Stanger-Leathes and James Herriot started the business together, and combined recollections of past achievements as well as ambitions for the future. Best wishes to everyone at Callerton - here's to the next forty years and more! |
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Traditionally Speaking Explores Christmas Cards
15th June 2023 In this month's edition of the Traditionally Speaking podcast, the topic is Christmas cards. We love to receive them from friends and family every festive season, but how did the Christmas card first come about - and is its origin perhaps more historic than we commonly think? In this episode, Tom and Joe take a look at some fascinating facts about the Christmas card, and discuss the latest developments which are delivering people's yuletide greetings further and faster than ever before! To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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Learning from the Property Experts
7th June 2023 When it comes to property trading, you only want to learn from the very best. The REWD Group are at the top of their game for a reason; the company's directors have built one of Scotland's most impressive property portfolios, with investments right across the country. But how did they accomplish this major business achievement, and how can it inspire you in starting your own property journey? In their book Fast-Track to Property Millions, the REWD Group's directors explain the essentials of the industry and present a chance to learn real strategies from real experts. You won't want to miss it. For more information, please visit our Fast-Track to Property Millions page. |
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Forthgiving is Focus of New Podcast
1st June 2023 In this month's episode of the Extremis Publishing Podcast, philanthropic trust Forthgiving is the focus of conversation. Forthgiving is a unique local charity offering support to people in crisis throughout the Forth Valley area. In this episode, Ellen Dickie and Nick Cooke discuss the long history of the organisation and talk about its important work in the present day, collaborating with groups throughout Stirlingshire, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire to provide support directly to individuals who find themselves in a situation of personal difficulty as well as to organisations supporting disadvantaged members of the community. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. For more information about Forthgiving and its work, please visit the official website at: https://www.forthgiving.org.uk/ |
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Thanks to Forth Valley College
31th May 2023 Many thanks to everyone who attended Dr Tom Christie's recent Writing for Publication course at Forth Valley College's Stirling Campus. The lecture series ran for six weeks between April and May, and covered all of the major issues involved in preparing a book for the publishing process as well as many other considerations involved in being a professional writer. Special thanks to the Forth Valley College staff for making the course possible, and for all of their much-appreciated support throughout the series. |
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Introducing Behind the Scenes with Santa and Mrs Claus
30th May 2023 Our indefatigable friends at the North Pole Press have just launched a brand new podcast - and it's one that shines a light into the mysteries of what it takes to become the world's most beloved festive figures! In Behind the Scenes with Santa and Mrs Claus, Santa Joe Moore and Mary "Mrs Claus" Moore will be talking about the personal journey which has led them to amazing adventures all across the United States. With more than twenty years of experience as Santa and Mrs Claus, they have some incredible tales to tell - and you can join them as they relate their unique story to listeners all across the world! You won't want to miss a single episode. To join Santa Joe and Mary on their journey, you can listen on any of your favourite streaming audio platforms. For more details, please visit their website at: https://thenorthpolepress.com/santa-mrs-claus-podcast/ |
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Murray Will Soon be Flyting the Rock
25th May 2023 There's no holding back Dr Murray Cook when it comes to exploring Stirling's history! As part of this year's Off the Page Book Festival, Murray will be teaming up with the celebrated cultural heritage expert Dr Valentina Bold for Flyting the Rock, a special event taking place on Friday 26th May between 6:30pm and 8pm. The pair will be discussing Stirling’s rich history of poetry from the Court of the Stuarts to the Wallace Monument in a unique guided walk that will showcase the many people and places around the city that either inspired or are celebrated in poetry and song. For more details, please visit https://www.stirling.gov.uk/community-life-and-leisure/libraries-and-archives/libraries/off-the-page-book-festival-2023/ |
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Podcasts Now on Goodpods
18th May 2023 Great news! The Extremis Publishing Podcast and Traditionally Speaking are now both available to listen to on Goodpods. Goodpods is a new podcast player and discovery app with an emphasis on sharing your favourite podcasts with friends and contacts. With a growing number of listeners, this new platform is already proving popular, and we're delighted that new episodes of our podcasts are being hosted there. To listen to the podcasts on Goodpods, please visit their website at: https://goodpods.com/podcasts/the-extremis-publishing-podcast-256310 or https://goodpods.com/podcasts/traditionally-speaking-256308. |
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Krampus Invades Traditionally Speaking
15th May 2023 Who is the mysterious Krampus, and how did he become the sinister doppelganger of our beloved St Nicholas? In this episode of the Traditionally Speaking podcast, Tom and Joe look into the story behind this shadowy figure, exploring how he has been depicted in European and American popular culture and is now being portrayed in books and movies. If you're not on the nice list already, you'll soon want to be after hearing about Krampus. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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End of the Road for James's Australian Travels
10th May 2023 Travel author James R.A. Herriot has been bidding a fond farewell (for now, at least) to the beautiful land of Australia. While staying at Cape Lodge, he sampled wines from vineyards along the Margaret River including Vasse Felix, Voyager, Cape Mentelle, Leeuwin and Fermoy, and then headed to his final destination - the amazing city of Perth: the capital of Western Australia. James has had an unforgettable time on his latest Oz odyssey, and has met many incredible people on his journeys. But where next for his globetrotting adventures? Stay tuned to find out! |
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Murray Features on BBC News
8th May 2023 Congratulations to author Dr Murray Cook, who has recently been featured on the BBC News Scotland website in an article spotlighting his recent archaeological excavation on Dumyat in the Ochil Hills. Supported by his indefatigable team of volunteers, Murray was working in collaboration with the University of Aberdeen's Northern Picts Project in an effort to investigate the existence of a complex belonging to the Maiatai - a people from antiquity who fought invading Romans centuries ago. The dig uncovered many exciting finds including pottery, a brooch and some evidence of metal working. For more information, please visit the article on the BBC News website at: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cw4pn89wg4do |
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James's Australian Adventures Continue
4th May 2023 In the penultimate stage of his travels Down Under, intrepid travel writer James R.A. Herriot has spent a week in glorious Arnhem Land - a striking historical region of the Northern Territory of Australia. He has been travelling in high style by private plane to visit amazing forests, ancient cave paintings, and some of the most incredible night skies you'll ever see. Where will the last leg of James's Oz Odyssey take him? Not long now until we find out! |
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The Robin Hood 500 Newsletter
3rd May 2023 Did you know that Neil Hallam's Robin Hood 500 Route has its own official newsletter? It's the best place to find regular information about what's happening on the 500RH, discover the amazing exclusive deals that are available to members, hear about events taking place on and around the route, and generally stay in touch with all the latest news from this remarkable new road trip. For more information about how to sign up, please visit the Robin Hood 500 Route website at: https://500rh.co.uk/. |
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New The Sabbatical Podcast
2nd May 2023 In this episode of The Extremis Publishing Podcast, travel writer James R.A. Herriot - author of The Sabbatical: A Year of Travel During the Pandemic - has a chat about his amazing life of global journeys. He discusses the distinctive set of ideas which brought about his book of international travel memoirs, written during the pandemic when no-one was able to leave their homes, and reflects on the incredible experiences he has enjoyed across the world thus far. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. |
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The Oz Odyssey Enters New Territory
27th April 2023 Still on his travels through beautiful Australia, author James R.A. Herriot has been continuing to hit the road Down Under. First, he has taken a flight into sunny Cairns, and from there onwards via helicopter to Mount Mulligan. As the photo suggests, he took part in an action-packed itinerary which included mustering cattle, a visit to the abandoned Tyrconnel gold mine, and then a trip to the ghost town of Mulligan. Stay tuned to find out where his next destinations will be! |
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James's Continuing Journeys Down Under
19th April 2023 Travel writer James R.A. Herriot is continuing his journeys in the glorious land of Australia. In the past week he has been visiting historic Byron Bay, and has then moved on to Melbourne where he has taken this striking image from the famous St Kilda’s Pier. Where will be the next destination on his antipodean odyssey? Watch this space for further news from beautiful Oz! |
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Traditionally Speaking Focuses on Board Games
14th April 2023 Can there be a family festive tradition more treasured than the board game? From childhood favourites through to modern iterations, playing board games with loved ones can bring back happy Christmas memories - or perhaps a few competitive arguments! In this episode of the Traditionally Speaking podcast, Tom and Joe discuss the many different types of games that have been popular over the years, from the best-known to the more obscure. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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James's Adventures in Oz
12th April 2023 Intrepid travel writer James R.A. Herriot has been off on his travels again - and taking a hard-earned new sabbatical in beautiful Australia! So far he's visited Melbourne, Domain Chandon in the Yarra Valley, Metung and many other amazing locations Down Under. Where will be next on his travel list? Only time will tell! If you'd like to read about James's earlier odysseys around the world, don't forget that his book The Sabbatical is available in hardback and paperback editions. Find out more about his journeys to some astonishing and far-flung places - many of them quite unique and anything but conventional destinations! |
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The 500RH Website for Robin Hood and Travel Enthusiasts Everywhere
6th April 2023 Did you know that Neil Hallam's Robin Hood 500 Route is so much more than an epic road trip? On the official website, you will discover a whole range of exclusive 500RH merchandise on the online shop, as well as the 500RH membership programme which provides many benefits when purchasing from participating retailers on and around the route. There is also background information about the project, itineraries for those travelling the route, details of accommodation in the area, and an outline of some of the amazing things to see and do on this most iconic of road trips. A visit to the site is highly recommended for anyone who is seeking to get the most out of their journey around some of the most beautiful and historically significant regions in all of England. To find out more, please visit the official 500RH website at: https://500rh.co.uk/ |
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Bannockburn House Podcast
3rd April 2023 Jim Bennett, outgoing CEO of the Bannockburn House Trust and social enterprise specialist, joins us for a chat about the amazing Bannockburn House - an historically-significant 17th Century mansion near Stirling which has been the location of many noteworthy cultural events over the years, and is now a unique venue which has become popular with visitors and filming crews alike. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. For more information about Bannockburn House and the many events taking place there, please visit their website at: https://www.bannockburnhouse.scot/ Image is Copyright © David Ho Photography, all rights reserved. |
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The Robin Hood 500 Route Released Today
31st March 2023 The Robin Hood 500 Route by Neil Hallam is released today! In this exciting new book, Robin Hood enthusiast Neil Hallam presents his brand new road trip around Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincoln, Yorkshire and Derbyshire which explores the lasting legacy of England's most infamous outlaw - ranging from historical mysteries to enigmatic folklore. Drawing on painstaking research and local legend, Neil pieces together a fascinating and entertaining tapestry of swashbuckling adventures and ancient curiosities which will make you want to visit each and every amazing location for yourself. For more information about how to order the book from participating retailers, please visit our The Robin Hood 500 Route page. Don't forget to visit the official Robin Hood 500 Route website at https://500rh.co.uk/ to find out more about this remarkable travel experience. |
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Extremis Publishing Partners with Jeeni
23rd March 2023 Extremis Publishing would like to announce that it has launched a new line of spoken word features which can be accessed free of charge exclusively on international streaming audio provider Jeeni - a company which has formed a truly unique platform for new content which acknowledges the importance of showcasing creative voices across all genres. Jeeni was founded in 2018 by its chairman Mel Croucher, who established Britain’s first dedicated software house in the 1970s, and CEO Dr Shena Mitchell, a highly experienced academic and business professional. Based in the UK and USA, the business has created a multi-channel platform for original entertainment on demand which forms a direct service between creatives and the global audience. Jeeni gives creatives, independent artists and performers a showcase for their talent and services, allowing them to keep 100% of everything they make. The company empowers its audience and rewards them every step of the way, promising to treat their members ethically, fairly, honestly and with respect. Extremis Publishing’s range of spoken word material was supported by a Go Digital grant which was awarded by Publishing Scotland, the main trade association for the publishing industry in Scotland. To access Extremis Publishing’s range of exclusive audio material on Jeeni, please visit our audiobooks page. Jeeni is currently encouraging new investors to join them on their journey to spread original audio content across the world. For more information, check out their website at https://jeeni.com/ and their latest funding campaign at: https://www.crowdcube.com/companies/jeeni-1/pitches/by95Wb. |
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The Robin Hood 500 Route Video Promo
22nd March 2023 With just over a week to go until its release date, author and journalist Neil Hallam introduces his new book The Robin Hood 500 Route. Talking about this exciting new guidebook, Neil explains the concept behind his new travelling route around beautiful Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Derbyshire and South Yorkshire as he follows in the historical footsteps of England's most beloved figure in folklore, Robin Hood. To watch the video, please visit our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/cYBowupwz6M |
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Traditionally Speaking Goes to the Movies
15th March 2023 In this month's episode of Traditionally Speaking, the spotlight is on the TV movie. The United States leads the world in the production of Christmas TV movies, and with its beautiful scenery Scotland has become an increasingly popular filming location for festive features. In this episode, Tom and Joe take a look at two recent TV movies which were filmed in Scotland - Ryan Dewar's "Christmas in the Highlands" and Mary Lambert's "A Castle for Christmas" - and discuss the different real-life places they highlight, as well as exploring why festive TV movies have enjoyed such enduring popularity. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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Publishing Presentation Coming Soon
14th March 2023 Join us on Thursday 23rd March at 7pm when Extremis Publishing's directors Julie Christie and Tom Christie will be giving a presentation about the work of their company. The talk will delve into the publishing giants of Stirling's past before exploring what's involved in modern commercial book publishing and sharing some insights into what we might expect from future developments in this fast-moving industry. The event will be taking place at Legends Coffee House, Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Road, Stirling, FK9 5LF in aid of Stirling District Tourism. Tickets for admission are by donation, and refreshments will be available at the venue on the night. For more information about the presentation, and to book your place in advance, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-brief-history-of-publishing-in-stirling-tickets-488609402877 |
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Celebrating International Women's Day
8th March 2023 Wishing an excellent International Women's Day to all of our readers worldwide. This year's theme is DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality. Thank you to all of the women in digital publishing who are leading the field across the globe. For more information about International Women's Day, please visit the United Nations website at: https://www.un.org/en/observances/womens-day |
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Clootie McToot Dumplings Podcast
2nd March 2023 In this month's episode of the Extremis Publishing Podcast, the founder and owner of Clootie McToot Dumplings Ltd., Michelle Maddox, drops by for a discussion about her remarkable company - one of the most unique food businesses in all of Scotland. Michelle chats about the story behind Clootie McToot, her appearances on UK television, the very special children's book she has authored, and explains why her work has been so important in popularising this most culturally significant of Scottish dishes. To find out more about Clootie McToot Dumplings and their restaurant and gift shop based in the beautiful Perthshire village of Abernethy, please visit their website at: https://clootiemctootdumplings.com/ To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. Images are Copyright © Clootie McToot Dumplings Ltd., all rights reserved. |
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The Robin Hood 500 Route Now Available for Pre-order
28th February 2023 It is with much pleasure that Extremis Publishing would like to announce a new book by Neil Hallam. The Robin Hood 500 Route presents a brand new road trip around Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincoln, Yorkshire and Derbyshire which explores the lasting legacy of England's most infamous outlaw. In this book, Robin Hood enthusiast Neil Hallam invites you to join him on the trip of a lifetime as he travels around some of the most scenic locations in England searching for the facts behind this famous yet inscrutable figure. His travels take him far beyond busy Nottingham and Sherwood Forest to the village of Robin Hood, the bucolic hamlet of Loxley, charming Whitby and the beautiful Robin Hood’s Bay, via a plethora of caves, coves, churches, crags and castles just waiting to be discovered along the way. Drawing on historical research, national folklore and local legend, Neil pieces together a fascinating and entertaining tapestry of swashbuckling adventures, intriguing mysteries and ancient curiosities which will make you want to visit each and every amazing location for yourself. The Robin Hood 500 Route will be released on Friday 31st March 2023. For more information about the book, including participating retailers, please visit our The Robin Hood 500 Route page. |
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Announcing Neil Hallam
23rd February 2023 Extremis Publishing is delighted to announce that Neil Hallam is the latest author to join our catalogue. Neil is a highly experienced author with a number of diverse books in his bibliography, and it is a pleasure to welcome him to our company. Neil is a freelance writer and photojournalist based in Nottingham, England. His media career began in the 1980s as a photographer for Mansfield Brewery’s trade magazine. Neil is a contributor to magazines as diverse as Police World and Cycling Active. A keen motorcyclist throughout his adult life, Neil contributes to motorcycle magazines in Australia, the USA and Britain. His published work includes touring articles, road tests and technical features. Neil’s professional career began in the law, as a Chartered Legal Executive, moving to the Police for a 22 year career. His journalism experience includes five years seconded to the Home Office as Communications Officer at the Police National CBRN Centre. Since retirement, Neil has pursued his interests in travelling, writing and the media. Neil’s Police experience has found ongoing work as the Police Technical advisor to the scriptwriters of ITV’s Coronation Street and BBC’s Waterloo Road. Watch out for exciting news about Neil's first publication with Extremis Publishing in the very near future. In the meantime, for more information about Neil and his work to date, please visit his website at: www.neilhallam.com |
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New Publishing Talk in Stirling Forthcoming
21st February 2023 Coming up on Thursday 23rd March at 7pm, Extremis Publishing directors Julie Christie and Tom Christie will be giving a presentation at Legends Coffee House, Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Road, Stirling, FK9 5LF about the many ways that the publishing industry has played an important part in Stirlingshire's history and culture. Entitled "A Brief History of Publishing in Stirling", they will be discussing the publishing giants of the city's past before exploring what's involved in modern day book publishing and sharing some insights into what we might expect from future developments in the industry. Tickets for admission are by donation. For more information about the event, and to book your place in advance, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-brief-history-of-publishing-in-stirling-tickets-488609402877 |
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Traditionally Speaking Looks at Christmas Trees
15th February 2023 In this month's Traditionally Speaking podcast, the subject of choice is the Christmas tree. One of the most iconic symbols of the modern festive season, the Christmas tree has become an enduring and comforting motif of the holidays right across the world. In this episode, Tom and Joe take a look at the ancient origins of the Christmas tree and explore the different ways that it has become such an essential part of holiday festivities in so many countries. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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Mission Employable Retrospective Video
10th February 2023 To look back on their recent Mission Employable event for new graduates, Stirling University's Faculty of Arts and Humanities Employability Team has produced a retrospective video which features many reflections from employer guests and student attendees. We were delighted to take part in this event, and hope that it has given plenty of encouragement to graduates who are planning to work in the arts and humanities sector. The video can be viewed on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQl9lzGneKg |
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Fast-Track to Property Millions Podcast
7th February 2023 In this month's Extremis Publishing Podcast, property experts Laurie Duncan, Alex Robertson and Conar Tracey of the famous Real Estate Wealth Development Group - otherwise known as REWD Group - talk about their first book Fast-Track to Property Millions: a guide to the strategies involved in developing and trading in property, with many reflections on their own incredible business journey. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. |
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Thanks to Stirling University's Faculty of Arts and Humanities
4th February 2023 Many thanks to Stirling University's Faculty of Arts and Humanities Employability Team, who invited us to their Mission: Employable final year conference dinner at the Stirling Court Hotel. It was a wonderful evening which allowed us to meet many students who were looking ahead to working in roles within the arts and humanities sector after graduation. It was a huge privilege to experience the drive, energy and aspiration of the students, who are seeking jobs in a vibrant and fast-changing workplace, and to offer them encouragement. Thanks to Elaine Knox Watson (pictured right), Employability and Skills Officer at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, for inviting us along for such an enjoyable event. |
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The Sabbatical Released Today
1st February 2023 James R.A. Herriot's remarkable travel book, The Sabbatical, is available from all good online retailers and independent booksellers from today. In this extraordinary book, the author details his life of world travel in a journal spanning 52 weeks during the global coronavirus pandemic. Unable to travel during the lockdown period, James reveals his adventures exploring destinations on many continents over the years - including some surprising locations and heart-warming encounters. Many thanks also to the Northumberland Gazette for covering the news of James's new book in their latest edition: https://www.northumberlandgazette.co.uk/news/people/berwick-businessman-james-herriot-reflects-on-his-travels-abroad-over-many-years-4006267 Fully illustrated with colour photographs from the author's personal collection, The Sabbatical is available in paperback as well as a special hardback edition. For more information about the book, including participating retailers where you can order your copy, please visit our pages for The Sabbatical and The Sabbatical: Special Edition. |
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The Sabbatical Video Promo
25th January 2023 With only a week to go until his first title is released, author James R.A. Herriot discusses his book The Sabbatical: A Year of Travel During the Pandemic, in which he explores 52 amazing locations across the world that he has visited during his lifetime, as outlined during the national lockdown when no-one was able to travel. He talks about the friends he made, the incredible sights that he has witnessed over the years, and the significance that these places have had to his life. For more information about the book, please visit our The Sabbatical and The Sabbatical: Special Edition pages. |
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Ian and Murray Featured in the Press
23rd January 2023 Congratulations to authors Ian McNeish and Dr Murray Cook, who have been featured in today's edition of the Scottish Daily Mail. An article by George Mair on page 21 of the 23 January 2023 issue spotlights efforts by the pair, as detailed in their recent book The Bannock Burn, to establish a permanent memorial to the late RAF fighter pilot Henri Delabastita, whose Spitfire crashed near the North Third reservoir in January 1943. Their research into, and involvement with, the crash site is explained in the article, and the wartime bravery of Mr Delabastita recognised in detail. The story has also been covered in The Times online at the following link: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/tribute-to-belgian-spitfire-pilot-who-flew-with-the-raf-phzjl668w |
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Forthcoming Robert Burns Performances from Robbie
17th January 2023 We are delighted to announce that in commemoration of the anniversary of the birth of Scotland's National Bard, Robert Burns, two special events are to be held on scenic Tayside with author Robert Murray. On Friday 20th January, a Burns evening is to take place in the Book House, Broughty Ferry. Robert Burns, played by local writer/actor Robbie Murray, will make an appearance while he edits chapters of his life story. This event starts at 7:30pm and is open to the public but with limited seating available, so booking in advance via Eventbrite is strongly recommended. Sunday 5th February, The Spirit of Robbie Burns, a play which has been performed around Angus churches in recent years and was performed in Edinburgh during last Year's Fringe, will be presented in Newton Panbride Church, Arbroath Road, Carnoustie, at 7pm. James Hutcheson and his cast will tell the Bard's life story in poetry, song, dialogue and narrative. Tickets for this event are available directly from the church, at the local Fobel Shop, or by paying at the door on the evening. Ticket price is £6 per person, including refreshments. Both events are highly recommended, but with tickets going fast advance booking is advised for anyone planning to attend. |
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Scottish Festive Delicacies Discussed on Traditionally Speaking
13th January 2023 In this month's Traditionally Speaking podcast, tasty Scottish Christmas snacks are the topic of choice. Scotland has no shortage of culinary specialities, and Christmas food is no different. In this episode, Tom and Joe discuss two festive delicacies which have found popularity in the modern Scottish Christmas - the ancient bannock cake, and the more recent Ecclefechan tart. But what are the stories which lie behind these distinctive yuletide treats, and why have they been enjoying a resurgence in popularity? To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or the Traditionally Speaking website at: http://traditionally-speaking.com. |
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The Extremis Publishing Podcast Now on Boomplay
9th January 2023 Good news! The Extremis Publishing Podcast is now available to listen to on Boomplay. Boomplay is a leading Internet media streaming and download service with over 70 million monthly users, and is available to access on the web, the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. To listen to the podcast on Boomplay, please visit their website on: https://www.boomplay.com/podcasts/49200 |
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Ian Taking Part in Veterans' Tall Tales
6th January 2023 Author Ian McNeish will be taking part in a special radio event this weekend, exclusive to Forth Valley Radio. Veterans' Tall Tales is a a radio project where Creative Veterans will be telling their stories in a feature hosted by Mark Wallace. This promises to be a highly entertaining event, full of amazing tales, and listening is highly recommended. The broadcast will take place between 2pm-4pm on Sunday 8th January 2023 on Forth Valley Radio. You can listen live on their website or via their official app. |
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Announcing The Sabbatical for Pre-order
5th January 2023 It is with much excitement that Extremis Publishing can announce that The Sabbatical is now available for pre-order. In this brand new book, author James R.A. Herriot details his life of world travel in a journal spanning 52 weeks of the global coronavirus pandemic, exploring destinations on many continents - including some surprising locations and heart-warming encounters. If you were able to travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? During the second Covid-19 pandemic lockdown, James Herriot decided to collate various of the journeys he and his wife (Debbie) have made during their life together as a journal for their grandchildren. Reminiscing about their favourite places, James also includes suggestions for good books, his favourite music, as well as fine wines consumed with family and friends in the various locations. Travel with him from his beautiful home town of Berwick-upon-Tweed to Australia, New Zealand, America, Italy, France, Spain, Croatia, Turkey, and others, plus some closer to home – all 52 having their own story to tell. Sometimes humorous, sometimes sad, his observations are always thought-provoking. The Sabbatical will help you to reminisce about places you have visited – or possibly encourage you to visit new locations for yourself. The Sabbatical will be released on Wednesday 1st February 2023, and will be available in paperback as well as a special hardback edition. For more information about the book, including participating retailers where you can pre-order your copy, please visit our pages for The Sabbatical and The Sabbatical: Special Edition. |
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Fast-Track to Property Millions Released Today
3nd January 2023 Extremis Publishing is delighted to announce that Fast-Track to Property Millions is released today! In this indispensable volume, property traders and investors Laurie Duncan, Alex Robertson and Conar Tracey introduce the many strategies they have used at the Real Estate Wealth Development Group (REWD Group) to grow their company and undertake one of the most remarkable business journeys imaginable. In this book, these experienced businessmen share their extensive expertise and offer the essential knowledge required to succeed in the world of property, covering topics which include legislation, taxation, due diligence, mindset, finance strategies and much more besides. For more information about how to order the book from participating retailers, please visit our Fast-Track to Property Millions page. |
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Dundee Library Services Feature in Latest Podcast
2nd January 2023 In this month's episode of the Extremis Publishing Podcast, Neil Paterson - Outreach Services and Information Officer at Dundee Library Services - discusses the many activities taking place throughout Tayside to support local communities, bring people together, and promote language and literacy. Modern libraries are about so much more than lending books, and Neil explains how things have been developing since the pandemic in the Dundee area - with a range of new services that might just surprise you. To listen to the podcast, please visit your favourite audio streaming provider or our podcast page. |
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