Press Release
Hamefarin Book Launch – Bright Pebbles, an anthology that celebrates the riches and variety of Shetland dialect and culture
To commemorate the Shetland Hamefarin 2010, and to celebrate the richness and variety of Shetland dialect and culture, this week will see the release of a new anthology of stories, poems, prose and recollections. Bright Pebbles, selected and edited by Mary Blance and Laureen Johnson of Shetland ForWirds, will be published by the Economic Development Unit of Shetland Islands Council.
Laureen Johnson said “This anthology brings together the words, experiences and insights of fifty writers, in dialect and in English. The works we’ve selected reflect Shetland as it is now, and as it was in the most recent past: the land, the sea, the seasons, the people, the music and lightsomeness, the ways of making a living.”
Amply illustrated with artwork and photographs, the book is also accompanied by a CD, upon which is a selection of poems, in a rich mixture of contrasting Shetland voices, with songs and music from award-winning musicians all combining to make a wonderful listen.
Mary Blance said “This anthology will be published for the Hamefarin, but we expect this to be something that will be treasured for many years to come, and to have a place in every Shetland home.”
Councillor Allan Wishart, commenting on publication said “Bright Pebbles allows the reader to dip in and out of stories, poems and fascinating snippets of Shetland life, history and topics of general interest, all superbly illustrated and presented with fabulous photographs. The book should be very accessible and have broad appeal.”
Bright Pebbles will be launched at Islesburgh Community Centre on Thursday 17 June, at 5.30pm, the event is open to all. Bright Pebbles will be available to buy at the launch and from The Shetland Times Bookshop and Shetland Museum and Archives, priced at £14.99.