This week my exploring has been curtailed as I've mainly been confined indoors thanks to a combination of stormy weather and a thumping head cold. So it seemed quite fortuitous when a copy of 'The Art of Coorie' by Gabriella Bennett arrived for me to read and review. I also have an extra copy to giveaway to one lucky reader!
According to the book 'coorie' is defined as 1 The Scottish art of deriving comfort, wellbeing and energy from wild landscapes and convivial interiors 2 "A hug of a word" Could a more perfect sounding book arrive at a more perfect time? Probably not!
It turns out us Scots have been practising the art of coorie as long as we have existed, we just didn't have a word for it until now. According to the book it is a lifestyle inspired by our surroundings, culture and our heritage. It is associated with warmth and comfort, a connection to the landscape and each other. It spans across every aspect of our daily lives from food and drink to textiles and architecture (and everything in between).
As Storm Ali battered across the ancient Orkney landscape outside my window, I wrapped myself in a fleecy blanket, lit some candles, poured a cup of tea and huddled up to read my new book. It turns out I've already got the concept of coorie down to a fine art!
I spent the next couple of hours immersing myself in beautiful images, inspiring ideas, anecdotes and stories. With chapters on a diverse range of themes including 'Coorie Words', 'Coorie Camping' and 'Coorie Textiles', the book is a celebration of all things Scottish, with a real emphasis on contemporary style without being pretentious. By the end I felt even prouder (if that's possible!) to come from such a cool and creative wee country.
The book perfectly captures the essence of 21st Scotland which is a breath of fresh air for me as it steers well clear of the stereotypical Scottish 'tartan shortbread' image that is all too frequently promoted. The Art of Coorie is a guide to living happy the Scottish way and with the arrival of the autumnal weather, it's the perfect time to be reminded of everything on our doorstep that makes us feel cosy and warm.
WIN YOUR OWN COPY OF THE ART OF COORIE
To celebrate the launch of the book, I have kindly been provided one extra copy for a little competition. Please note that the competition is open to UK entries only. Entering is super easy all you have to do is follow the instructions on the Rafflecopter App below. There are up to 3 entries available per person. You will receive 2 entries if you follow my Scotland adventures on Twitter and 1 entry for visiting my Facebook page. TERMS AND CONDITIONS
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