Columba's Island

The usual history of Iona tells of the monks and missionaries and ministers. This work, however, tells of the quieter, more personal tale of everyday life on a remarkable Hebridean island. Mairi MacArthur brings to the forefront of history the overlooked people and landscape of Iona. She describes how, through the dramas of history, from before the catalystic arrival of St Columba, to the even more dramatic arrival of hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, the crofters and fishermen of Iona have continued their working lives. This is a personal and affectionate account of the islanders which uncovers the continuity in their lives and work from pre-Columban times to the modern day. This is a book for the discerning Iona visitor who is curious to look beyond the myths surrounding St Columba at the reality of life on the island. It is also intended for students of Scottish history and Scottish studies.