I was immediately drawn to this book when I learned that it was about Robert the Bruce. Scottish history has always been a favorite of mine and this sounded like it would be a great story as Sir Walter Scott, another favorite, would also be in the mix. I was definitely not disappointed.
The author takes us with Robert as he fights for his life, his family and for independence. The descriptions and details are exceptionally accurate and thorough. History lovers will enjoy this re-telling because of the attention to facts. The book is broken down into small, manageable chapters that are descriptively titled.
A very helpful and extensive Cast of Characters is included in the beginning of the book. It is a resource that is very useful in the reading of this book as the names and connections can get a little confused at times. Mr. Macreery builds deep characters that the reader can really get a feel for and come to care about. The many references to other important historical figures of the time adds to the authenticity in this story. The amazing amounts of research and study that the author underwent for this book is very apparent.
The only issue I had with this book was the fact that the tale was being told to Wattie (the future Sir Walter Scott) by his Aunt Jenny, but in his grandfather's voice. I found this to be very distracting at times as the grandmother would interrupt and there would be a switch back and forth in the voices. I probably would have preferred it if it had just stayed with one or the other. It's a small thing that still didn't detract from this wonderful story.
Mr. Macreery has taken a subject that can still get the blood boiling in those of Scottish descent and created a riveting and memorable tale that will keep the memories alive. I highly recommend this book to any who love a good saga, especially to those who love the colorful and tumultuous history of Scotland and one of its most beloved and beleaguered heroes.
Reviewed on 08/21/2010 by ReviewTheBook.com Member Julie Dees
I have to admit, as soon as I saw the Goodreads summary of this book, I HAD to read it. It sounded like something that I could really enjoy.
I was not disappointed. I hate when authors right books based around historical events or time periods and they have not researched them enough. I, being a history *buff*, get frustrated. You will not be disappointed with Bo Macreery's knowledge of both Scottish and English history.
In this book we see Robert get a new zest for life. When it seems that all has gone wrong and he has hit rock bottom, he focuses on watching a spider. This spider is deep involved in trying to create a web on a wet cave wall. He sees the determination this spider has to create it's own web and takes a new ideal into his own life path.
You are taken right into the lands and times with great story writing. You can picture the events and surroundings in your mind. A vivid picture is painted without being over-worded.
There is a rather long character reference guide included in this book and you will need it. His characters are so developed that they truly take on their own persona. Chapters are on the short side, but well titled and quick moving. He manages to teach you lessons through medieval lore that you can adapt into your present day.
Brilliant writing and research. A quick read that you will not want to put down. This needs to be on your book shelves. I will be re-reading this.
Reviewed on 07/12/2010 by ReviewTheBook.com Member Mystee Blackwood
A tale handed down to a young Sir Walter Scott from his grandfather, and told to him by his aunt Jenny, “Why We Don’t Kill Spiders” is a tell of Robert the Bruce, and the fight for a nations soul and crown. We first find Robert watching a spider to on avail trying to build a web upon the wet, slippery walls of a cave on the Isle of Arran. Upon leaving the cave to his astonishment, he spots a half completed web. In the middle of a country divided into but only Highlands and Lowlands, but Gaelic and French Norman, noble and common, land and sea, Catholic and Celtic, you see the rise of Scotland’s legendary Ard Righ, Robert the Bruce. Witness the inner struggles and the struggle to unite a nation that for so long has been divided. You also take a glimpse into the lives of Robert Wishart, William Lamberton, James Douglas, and many other legendary figures that help to shape the Scotland we see today. Also we get to join the journey of William Wallace, and see that part that he played and his untimely death. Travel throughout Scotland from the Isle of Arran, to Loudon Hill, from Stirling to Carrick and Glen Trool, and to many other historical sites without every having to leave your chair. Hear the ringing of the steel, the horse hooves beating into the marshy earth, and the battle cries of the brave warrior’s as they face England’s King Edward Longshanks and the his son King Edward Carnarvon. Witness a united Scotland at the battle of Bannonckburn win their freedom and pay homage to their Ard Righ Robert the Bruce. Upon the Robert’s death he finally see the completed spider web. With the tale handed down, Sir Walter Scott’s life has become intertwined with that of the Bruce’s, Vowing to tell the story in his own voice the legacy of the spider will never die.
Proving that past can come to life once more; Bo Macreery has breathed life into these legendary figures. It’s as you yourself has witnessed these events first hand. Capturing the heart, soul, and essence of Scotland, in a single book. He takes you on an unforgettable journey where the legend of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace still roam the misty hills of Caledonia.
“Why We Don’t Kill Spiders”, is as alluring and intricately woven as a brilliantly completed spider’s web. A definite page-turner, that will have you hooked from the first line. Bo Macreery has become a seanachaid for a new generation, keeping alive the history of Scotland and it’s fight for independence. Open up this book and prepare to transported back in time, to a nation uniting and an new King rising to greatness.
Reviewed on 07/16/2009 by ReviewTheBook.com Member Angela Simmons
