Arran author David Brookens has written a novel that explores the emergence of Scotland’s hydro electric development schemes.
The book, A Future in the Glens, is the first in a four-part series.
Set in 1947, the story follows Donald Fraser, a war veteran returning to his home in Cannich in the Highlands, where the emergence of hydro electric power has transformed the village.
David, who writes under the pen name David Charles, became inspired to write his first book after visiting Glen Quoich Lodge in Glengarry and discovering the area’s rich heritage in hydro power. The discovery prompted an interest in the origins of Scotland’s hydro power which has remained with David.
In 1943, the Hydro Electric Development (Scotland) Act nationalised the development of hydro electric power across Scotland and kick-started a series of schemes across the country.
David said: “To contemplate building such a scheme in a country near bankruptcy by a world war not yet ended was, in my view, a decision of breathtaking vision. In the current age of mass power consumption, it might be said that Scotland’s hydro electricity contributes only a small percentage of the national need, yet the scheme has endured.”
“While most of it was completed by the 1970s, there are still schemes under development in the early years of the 21st century. For reading material about the hydro, I found factual accounts and reminiscences of the schemes and their construction but, as I read more, I wondered why no-one had written creatively about it.
He added: “There are, as I understand it, no works of fiction, music or drama, and yet drama there undoubtedly was. There must be many tales yet to be told, and that is the main reason I have written this book.”
David plans to stock the book in shops across Arran. There is a small number of copies available to purchase directly - with free delivery on the island - or the author will post to UK addresses for a small fee. For more information email Mail@lumstreet.com
The second book in the series is due for release later in the year.
Yes! I would like to be sent emails from West Coast Today
I understand that my personal information will not be shared with any third parties, and will only be used to provide me with useful targeted articles as indicated.
I'm also aware that I can un-subscribe at any point either from each email notification or on My Account screen.