Scots Whay Hae!

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali caught up with writer and academic Liam McIlvanney to talk about his superb new novel The Good Father, which is published with Zaffre (and which is rightly longlisted for this year's Bloody Scotland McIlvanney Prize).It's a novel which is difficult to discuss without offering spoilers, but they just about manage it. After giving a brief description, Liam explained why this was right time for him to tell this story, and that while it felt easier than previous novels in terms of speed of writing, the subject matter was as challenging as anything he has undertaken to date.Liam then explained the epigraph from Robin Robertson, why he prefers to read poetry when writing fiction, the challenges in creating his characters (particularly the central figure of Gordon Rutherford), and why this is his most personal novel yet.The two then talk through the themes and ideas, the pacing and structure, and the very nature of writing about crime, before an in depth discussion

The latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast is the first of our Edinburgh Fringe Festival Previews, where Ali talks to a few of the artists who will be appearing at the festival this year. The three shows discussed this time around are all part of the Made In Scotland Showcase, which has come to be a reliable mark of quality. First of all, Christine Thynne and Robbie Synge talk about These Mechanisms, "[...] a show treading the lines between dance, physical theatre, object manipulation and contemporary circus."Then Scottish dancer, choreographer, and multi-disciplinary artist Mark Bleakley discusses Stepping in… Spilling out which "[...] roots itself in Bleakley’s personal history of dance practice in Bboying (Breakdancing) and House to traverse the interlinking people, spaces, and memories that make up stepping as a culturally, historically, and emotionally layered motion."Finally, Indra Wilson talks about FLOAT, "a new autobiographical solo show about the lonely turbulence of experiencing pr

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to writer Andrew Meehan to hear all about his latest novel Best Friends, which is published by Muswell Press.Andrew gave a brief synopsis before talking about where the initial idea came from, creating relatable and believable central characters in June Wylie and Ray Draper, the importance of coming to care for them and their relationship, why he wanted to avoid looking too far into the past, and capturing the pros and cons of relationships in later life.Andrew also read a passage from the book which will really give you an idea as to the tone and style of the writing, and the conversation also touches upon the importance of place, authentic language, and why this is ultimately a novel of hope.The two also discuss living alone, loneliness, growing up and growing old, hopefully with the same humour and warmth that is a mark of Andrew's novelBest Friends is a joyous and life-affirming read, destined to be one of the year's best, and it was such a pleasure to be able to t

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to Chris Brookmyre and Marisa Haetzman who write together as Ambrose Parry to hear all about The Death of Shame - the fifth novel in the Raven and Fisher series - and much more.They talk about how they initially came to collaborate, something which brought together two distinct parts of their life; namely Chris's crime writing and Marisa's research for her master's degree in the History of Medicine.They then discuss the two central characters of Will Raven and Sarah Fisher and where they find themselves in The Death of Shame, the challenges of writing historical fiction, what makes Edinburgh the perfect location, the importance of using real people and events (but treating both with respect) and the parallels in the novel to the present day.The three then talk about the proliferation of crime festivals, including this year's Bloody Scotland, and why they are a joy to attend whether as writers, or readers. This is a warm and insightful conversati

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to Natalie Jayne Clark to hear all about her debut novel, The Malt Whisky Murders which is published on the Polygon imprint of Birlinn.Natalie gives a reading from the book, before talking about the initial idea behind the novel, pitching that idea at Bloody Scotland, getting published, developing the central characters, creating a supporting cast, influences, the importance of place, and a lot more.A large part of the interview is about the two's shared love of whisky, and the central role the drink and the industry play, not only in the novel, but in Natalie's life more generally.Add to that a celebration of, and praise for, the work of Iain Banks and you have a personal and personable chat about more than a few of their favourite things, and it was a pleasure to head through to Perth to record it.Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to poet Gordon Meade to hear all about this new collection of selected poems Beyond The Ninth Wave, which is published with the Into Poetry imprint of Into Books.Gordon gives a career overview, going back to his early interactions with poetry, his first experience of being published, and the extraordinary story which lead to his writing seriously and subsequent career.The two also discuss poetry more widely, the inspirations on - and the themes explored in - his work, the challenges in selecting the poems for this collection, and the joys of collaboration.All of this, and Gordon gives three fantastic readings. It's a warm and winning conversation with a writer taking time to reflect on his life and work, and it was a pleasure and privilege to be part of that conversation.Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to comic book artist and writer Emily Brooks Millar to hear all about her new illustrated book Birddad. which is being funded through a Kickstarter campaign.The first comic book artist to appear on the SWH! podcast (we think!), Emily talks about how she came to work in the medium, the importance of the support and encouragement from those around her, the challenges faced, and her experiences in the genre.The two also discuss comics and graphic novels, and art more widely, getting published, influences, inspirations, collaborations, and much more.Also a fantastic painter (you can find examples of Emily's work on her website) this is a fascinating and far-reaching conversation about an area of the arts we have overlooked in the past, and as a result we believe it will be of interest to all.Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to writer and poet Michael Pedersen, in the splendid surroundings of Glasgow's Mitchell Library, to talk about his debut novel Muckle Flugga, which is published with Faber & Faber.Michael describes the place and people of Muckle Flugga before talking about why this is the story he has told for his debut, explaining that the time was just right.He then breaks down the three central characters of The Father, his son Ouse, and the enigmatic interloper Firth, and what they each represent, which leads to a discussion of the themes which drive the novel.The conversation also touches on the influence of the Gothic tradition, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Scottish literature more widely. All of that plus language and lighthouse chat, and a brilliant reading from Michael.It was such a treat to be able to talk in depth to Michael Pedersen about this fantastic and life-affirming novel which is among the best debuts of recent times. The result is another memorable SW

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to filmmaker Ciaran Lyons to hear all about his debut feature Tummy Monster, which is playing across UK cinemas in May.Ciaran talks about the audience reaction to the recent screening at the Glasgow Film Theatre, before describing the film, detailing why this story became his debut, the practicalities faced, expanding on the themes and ideas which drove it, and the collaboration necessary to realise his vision.He also explains the casting process, and how he came to his two leads in particular, before setting out just some of the influences on his work, and this film especially. It's an enthralling and informative conversation which will be of interest to anyone who loves film, and is interested in the realities and mechanics of what it takes to make it from page to screen. Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali caught up with writer Callum McSorley to talk about his new novel Paperboy, which is the sequel to his McIlvanney Prize winning debut Squeaky Clean, both published with Pushkin Vertigo.Callum explains the premise of Squeaky Clean to give listeners an idea of his original vision, before explaining the ways Paperboy builds on that celebrated novel and his approach to writing a sequel.He then talks about how much he loves writing these books, including the people, places, and their patter - a love of language to the fore.The two also discuss the cast of characters, mapping events around the city of Glasgow, the importance of accurate references, and taking joy in dark comedy, before Callum details his experiences of life as a writer.As you will hear from their conversation, Ali is a huge fan of these novels and it was such a treat to be able to talk to Callum about them. A warm and engaging conversation, this is one for anyone with an interest in writing or reading.Full

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to double bassist and returning guest Roberto Cassani to hear all about the album Pictish Spaghetti which he has made with guitarist Graeme Stephen, and which is out now on Brooklyn label 577 Records.Roberto talks about collaborating with Graeme and how that came about, the dynamic of the double bass and guitar, their recording process, the joys of improvisation, the landscape of Perthshire being an influence, the healthy state of jazz in Scotland today, and explains that intriguing album title.He also tells the fascinating story of how he ended up living and making music in Scotland, before the two discuss his work as an educator, specifically his project Music for the Purpose of Joy which provides group music sessions to children, young people and adults based on Roberto's improvisational approach.The last time Roberto was on the podcast was during COVID and over Zoom, and it was such a pleasure to be able to talk to him face to face, especially in the be

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to writer and musician Carrie Marshall to talk about her latest book Small Town Joy, which is published by 404 Ink.A widely-published writer, including the critically-acclaimed memoir Carrie Kills A Man, Carrie is also a musician with indie rock band Unquiet Mind, and Small Town Joy is an inquiry into the ways LGBTQ+ artists have shaped Scotland’s musical soundtrack.Carrie explains the reasons for writing the book, the research involved, gives a global context, outlines the importance of dance music to the story and other genres, details just a few of her favourite characters who feature, (including those interviewed), the importance of place as well as people, and so much more.The two also discuss the enduring significance of a song they both love; Bronski Beat's 'Smalltown Boy', Edwin Morgan, favourite bands and musicians, and what's happening across musical genres in Scotland today.It's a fascinating and informative conversation about a joyous book which

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to Fraser Scott who is the director of The Gray Plays, a concert reading of four short plays by Alasdair Gray, which will be at Oran Mor on the 4th May.Fraser talks about the project, the book that inspired it, who is involved (including some well-kent names), and breaks down each of the four plays and why they were chosen.He also explains how he came to know the work of Alasdair Gray, describes the influences on his own work, how he came to be involved in theatre, forming the company Outwith It, and so much more.It's always a pleasure to discuss the life and work of Alasdair Gray, and The Gray Plays offers a rare (possibly unique) chance to see these plays performed. Tickets are available now, but, as Fraser suggests, they are going fast - so don't miss out... Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to writer Craig A. Smith to hear all about his new novel The River, which is out now with Into Books.Craig explains the full title of The River: A Path Of Least Resistance, why this was a story he wanted to tell, having a picture of the story in his head and the way it developed, the central character of Lachlan McCormack and what he represents, writing a love story, depictions of childhood, the structure of the novel which weaves together individuals, the nation, and the river itself, and much more.The two also discussed Craig's 2013 debut novel The Mile, which was one of the few to address the Independence Referendum, and the possible connection between the two books, before revealing just a little about what he wants to write about next.With The River, Craig A. Smith has a written a state-of-the-nation novel with a tender heart, and it was such a pleasure to be able to dig deep with writer himself. Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! Podcast Ali spoke to Ann Campbell who is the Festival Director of the Dunoon Film Festival which moves to Spring this year, and runs between 24th - 27th April. Ann talks about the history of the festival and the importance of the local community. She also explains her own role before breaking down this year's programme and what people can expect, emphasising that it is about so much more than just the films.The two talk then talk about some of the highlights, including the attendance of Neil Brand (a silent film accompanist and presenter will present and perform live at three events), two special preview screenings of films that will have their UK release in May, Oscar winner I’m Still Here, big screen classics such as Oh, Brother Where Art Thou? and David Lynch's The Straight Story, a 70th anniversary singalong of Oklahoma!, and so much more.Ann also explains the relationships with schools, local talent, and other partners who play a vital role in bringing the festival

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke once again to Jess Orr, the Associate Programmer for the Paisley Book Festival, to learn all about this year's programme - and what a programme it is.Jess explains this year's theme 'The Lives We Live' as well as breaking down the various strands of the festival which include 'Life's Fundamentals', 'The Writer’s Playlist', and 'Poet's Corner' before the two go into details about just some of the individual events across the four days. They also touch on the Schools Programme, the Workshops, and Family Day.It's a thorough and enthusiastic conversation which really whets the appetite for what's to come. In its six-year lifespan Paisley Book Festival has quickly become a highlight of Scotland's cultural calendar, with events being held in the beautiful venues of Paisley Town Hall and Paisley Central Library. We hope to see you there...Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayha

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to musician and writer Katy Lironi to talk all about her memoir Matilda In The Middle, which is available now, published with Into Books.Katy gives an overview of the book, talks about the title, breaks down the subtitle of 'family, music and mayhem' and how those three aspects work together to tell the full story. She also makes it clear that while this is a memoir about family, this is the story as she sees it.She then talks about SandFest, Choir 21, her work with Down's Syndrome Scotland, and the forthcoming event on the 21st March at The Book Nook in Stewarton which is part of World Down's Syndrome Day (details on the SWH! website).She also sets out the vital role music has played throughout her life, including the early years in East Kilbride, studying at Napier University and becoming part of the Edinburgh indie music scene as lead singer in The Fizzbombs, just what that time and place was like, the musical differences between East and Wes

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali caught up with writer Ewan Morrison to talk about his latest novel For Emma, which is published on the 25th March with Leamington Books.Ewan gives an overview of the novel before talking about Robert Louis Stevenson, his choice of quotations which are the book's epigraph, the structure of the novel, the central characters, and the sense of paranoia which runs throughout.The two also discuss the central themes which include technology and transhumanism, but also the very human traits of love, regret, addiction, and grief. They also mull over the humour which comes, perhaps unexpectedly, from events rather than the writing itself.Ewan was last a guest on on the SWH! podcast way back in July 2012, and it was such a pleasure to be able to talk to one of the finest writers around once again, especially about this fascinating book.Ewan will be launching For Emma at Waterstones Argyle Street in Glasgow on 3rd April, in conversation with Nicola Meighan.Full details, incl

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali caught up with writer Karen Campbell to talk about her latest novel This Bright Life, which will be published later this month with Canongate Books.Karen gives a synopsis of the novel before breaking down the three central characters of Gerard, Margaret and Claire and their role in events, why it had to be set in Glasgow, and, more widely, the importance of place.The two then talk about Karen's novels more generally (this is her ninth), the themes and ideas which interest her, writing about people who all too rarely appear on the page, and how she has changed as a writer over time. There is also a conversation about other Scottish novels, Lewis Grassic Gibbon and Hugh MacDiarmid, and the notable impact of, and response to, her previous novel Paper Cup. It's always a pleasure to talk to Karen, and with This Bright Life one of SWH!'s Ten Books for 2025 it was a privilege to be able to discuss it in such detail.Full details, including all the ways to listen,

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! Show Ali spoke to writer and academic Esa Aldegheri to talk about There She Goes: New Travel Writing by Women, an anthology of travel tales which celebrates the stories of women for which Esa is the editor, and which will be published by Saraband Books on 6th March.Esa explains how this anthology came about, including the origins of the title, and how the impressive list of contributors were assembled before discussing how the themes and ideas in the book emerged through the individual responses, and the importance in including a wide range of writers and styles.The two then talk about individual chapters and what they cover (without giving any spoilers!), as well as the nature of travel writing and how it has changed, and how this anthology challenges those preconceptions and addresses the subject in new and surprising ways.It's a fascinating and inspiring conversation about this excellent collection of essays, and travel writing itself. An essential listen about a book whi