Description

Book Synopsis

In 1938 John Lorne Campbell bought the Hebridean isle of Canna. He wanted to prevent it becoming a rich man's playground (like so many other islands and Highland estates), to preserve a part of traditional Gaelic culture and show that efficient farming methods could be compatible with wildlife conservation and sustainability. But his determination to get the island left him burdened by debt, and even after he gave it to the National Trust for Scotland in 1981 he still had to fight to secure his legacy.

This acclaimed book is an insightful and human portrait of one of the twentieth century's most significant scholars of the Gaelic world, and of his 60-year partnership with Margaret Fay Shaw, who together created the world-famous library of Gaelic song and other material at Canna House.



Trade Review

'A delightful read following the story of the Hebridean island of Canna'

* Scots Magazine *

The Man Who Gave Away His Island: A Life of John

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    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Thu 30 Jul 2026.

    A Paperback / softback by Ray Perman

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      Publisher: Birlinn General
      Publication Date: Publication Date: 07/04/2022
      ISBN13: 9781912476893, 978-1912476893
      ISBN10: 1912476894
      Also in:
      Biography: historical, political and military

      Description

      Book Synopsis

      In 1938 John Lorne Campbell bought the Hebridean isle of Canna. He wanted to prevent it becoming a rich man's playground (like so many other islands and Highland estates), to preserve a part of traditional Gaelic culture and show that efficient farming methods could be compatible with wildlife conservation and sustainability. But his determination to get the island left him burdened by debt, and even after he gave it to the National Trust for Scotland in 1981 he still had to fight to secure his legacy.

      This acclaimed book is an insightful and human portrait of one of the twentieth century's most significant scholars of the Gaelic world, and of his 60-year partnership with Margaret Fay Shaw, who together created the world-famous library of Gaelic song and other material at Canna House.



      Trade Review

      'A delightful read following the story of the Hebridean island of Canna'

      * Scots Magazine *

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