The Black Isle is a fascinating place with a name that contradicts its green patchwork of farmland and forest. Set within the eastern Highlands, it is an area of special attraction with its spectacular coastline, ancient rocks and fossils and varied human history. Add to this the rich personalitiy of its seaside villages, a wealth of wildlife interest and a local respect for the predictions of a shadowy Highland seer, an dyou have a place of charm and interest.

The possibilities for a personal discovery of this much-loved part of northern Scotland will be greatly enhanced by this book.

Douglas Willis teaches geography at Fortrose Academy in the Black Isle and is a popular lecturer throughout the Highlands and beyond. He is an enthusiastic traveller, and has written and broadcast on a wide variety of topics, taking an interest in all aspects of the countryside. He is the author of several books on Scottish themes.

Price £8.95, the book can be bought in local shops.

A unique combination of illustrated guidebook and engrossing narrative, this is a chronological history of Ross and Cromarty, from prihistoric times to the industrial age, including maps and site plans of the district.

The district of Ross and Cromarty stretches across northern Scotland, from the rugged Atlantic coastline to the shores of the Moray Firth. The landscape is one of great contrasts, with majestic ancient mountains to the west and pastoral countryside to the east. Ross and Cromarty holds delights for both professional and amatuer historians, as it was the frontier zone between the emerging kingdom of Scotland and the Viking stronghold of Orkney and Caithness.

This guide explores the diverse history of the area, from the appearance of the first human inhabitants over 8,000 years ago and its later position as a centre of Pictish power, through its popularity as a place of religious worship and study in medieval times, to the coming of the industrial age. The book contains much previously unpublished information and a number of sites are highlighted as Essential Viewing. There is also an introduction to the literature, music and art of the district.

David Alston is curator of the Cromarty Courthouse Museum.

Price £7.99, the book can be bought from Cromarty Courthouse or from Amazon.co.uk.