Scallywag Press
Scallywag Press
Scallywag Press
Scallywag Press

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Mat o' Shanter by Simon Lamb, illustrated by Ross MacRae
  • Publication 25 September 2025
  • Age 9-11
  • Price £12.99
  • Format Hardback
  • Size 216 x 135mm
  • Extent 112pp
  • ISBN 978-1-83630-009-0
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Mat o' Shanter

Simon LambClick here for biography

Ross MacRaeClick here for biography

FAO Burns EnthusiastsFAO Burns Enthusiasts
Ross MacRae draws MatRoss MacRae draws Mat
Coming soon ...Mat o'Shanter video thumnail

 

A stunning new version of a Scottish classic for the ears and eyes and hearts of today by the Carnegie-nominated author of A Passing On of Shells.

'Tam o' Shanter' is one of the world's most famous poems. Written by Scottish poet Robert Burns in 1790, the narrative epic continues to enchant audiences the world over more than two hundred years after its composition.

Now, written in response to that classic poem and inspired by the author's own experiences of it, Mat o' Shanter is both a spiritual sequel, a redux, and something entirely all its own. Rooted in Scotland, with appeal and accessibility for readers of all ages and from all over, this highly original and moving work incorporates an introduction to the original verse, poet Simon Lamb's full-length modern-day reimagining, and commentary in the form of an extensive - and surprising - author's note.

Bold and energetic illustrations by Scottish muralist and first-time book illustrator Ross MacRae complete the package, making Mat o' Shanter a singular and unforgettable read.

 

Reviews

'This contemporary reworking of a Robert Burns classic crackles with energy and wit. Rousing stuff. LoveReading4Kids' ★★★★★ Books for Keeps

'Spectacular, vigorous, inspiring.' School Reading List

'Energetic, experimental and quite extraordinary.' Youth Libraries Group

'This will become a classic and we don't exaggerate.' The Mitchell Library

'This is more than a little bit special.' Norfolk Children's Book Centre

 

More books by Simon Lamb

 

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