23/08/2026
This week we've had to say goodbye for the first ever time to a member of staff here at Waystone Books - the lovely Mathilde! The shop (and Skye!) won't be the same without her bopping about, enriching our days with a bit of whimsy. We love her and will miss her, and wish her all the best in her next adventure.
As a parting gift she's left us some book recommendations - check out Matty's words on her beautiful curated book stack below!
Before Scotland : a fascinating history of Scotland, going through the story of the people, the language and the land itself.
The Outrun : a memoir that kicked off my obsession with Orkney this year, it's a story of recovery and connection to one's home. In addition to a beautiful personal journey, it's filled with history and wonderful writing about the nature of the islands.
The Liveship Traders Trilogy : I really enjoyed this one, it's a chonky book but it felt like it took a day to read it. Think fantasy but with pirates, fleshed out characters and a true emotional core.
The Two Towers : A classic! One thing that stood out for me with this one was how comedic it actually was in between the epic and darker scenes.
Northern Lights : truly a fantasy story for all ages, I was obsessed with this book as a child and rediscovered it years later. The magic is still there, the world building is incredible and you find yourself surprised by the depth of the themes represented.
Lou! Diary dates : the first book of the Lou! Series, a hilarious and relatable representation of what it's like to be a 12 year old girl with a mum who doesn't have it together, a hyperactive mind, a huge crush on the neighbour and a lot of sarcasm. A classic for anyone who grew up in France, I wish more people knew about it! The books and art style evolve as Lou grows up, along with the reader.
Elementum : a series of nature journals, compiling writing and artworks about the earth, the sea, the birds, anything. Beautiful to flick through and get lost in for a little while.
