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Why bother watching Anime? Thoughts by an amateur storyteller.

What anime is | Why watch anime | Recommendations | Good to know

Images of anime

Introduction

Welcome to another rambling set of thoughts. But this time I turn my attention not to books and writing, but to the creative force that is ‘anime’. (Click here to go straight to the recommendations, if that’s all you came here for). This is quite a long blog – by all means skip to the bits you’re interested in!)

Anime has often been my ‘go to’ for pure escapism, when taking a break from work, writing, reading or running. (Taking a break? Has been known to happen). Lately the genre has gained ground in the UK, with both a great selection of DVDs or Blu-rays available and increased prominence on streaming platforms.

Anime landscapes

Here I try to explain what anime is and why it’s worth watching, with a range of recommendations for you to try. I’m no expert on anime – books are more my thing, after all – but I can report on what I’ve seen and enjoyed. So go on, give the genre a whirl; you never know, you might find something completely new to enjoy! Besides… I think it’s fair to say many of us need a hefty chunk of escapism in our lives right now, in this very strange world that 2020 has become.

What Anime Is

First of all, forget what you think you know about anime. It is not a series of repetitive fights and incomprehensible shouting (which might be the impression gained from children’s anime shows). In other words you must unlearn what you have learned…

Anime is just a medium. It covers a range of sub-genres, from children’s shows to comedy, from historical dramas to science fiction. The quality of both animation and writing has surged over the years, and many pieces of work are now the equal (and better) than animation emerging from Hollywood.

Image of anime characters

Anime is, literally, animation that originates from Japan. It’s certainly not just something for children; indeed, the Oscar-winning director Hayao Mayazaki is reputed to have initially been surprised that children liked some of his early work. That’s not to say that there’s not a lot of the genre targetting the child and YA markets. Or that it isn’t sometimes childish…!

The anime industry in Japan is huge with an estimated 400+ studios. Of course, quantity doesn’t always equal quality, and I’ll admit it; for each show that is a diamond there’s another five that are just graphite. One downside of the industry is that many studios don’t always pay or treat their staff that well; hopefully this is changing, with respectable studios such as Kyoto Animation providing much better conditions. But please, always buy DVDs or stream from reputable channels, then you can be sure you are supporting the developers.

But why on Earth should I watch that stuff…?

The best way I can describe why anime is worth watching is this: There’s always a certain magic cast by animation, a disconnect from the world around us; and anime is just so much better in weaving this spell. (Well, good anime, anyway.) Within the genre I’ve discovered so much that’s worthwhile:

  • Stories which drew me in and that were ultimately uplifting.
  • Achingly beautiful animation of both city and country, in worlds real and imagined, that equal the best cinematography.
  • Cracking soundtracks that I would be humming all week.
  • Clever symbolism only noticed on a second viewing.
  • Quirky characters that have had me laughing, crying and even thinking about questions in life that really matter.

In short: If you’ve ever enjoyed a good story with a hint of humour and magic to it, then you need to dip your toe into these waters.

For example, amongst the best stories I’ve discovered:

A book-loving woman is reborn in a medieval world where there are no books… Players are trapped in an online game, where death in the game means death in real life… Two children try to survive in the aftermath of WW2 Japan… A man goes back in time to prevent a series of murders… Young people ‘battle’ it out in performances of classical music…

All a long way from incomprehensible shouting and fighting, right? (Admittedly, there are even shows which excel at that.)

Assorted anime images

So, how did I start watching anime?

My own first exposure to anime was the 1988 Akira. This is a dystopian film that besides its sci-fi elements resonated with a cry of disaffected youth, ringing just as true as Rebel Without a Cause. It made me think: I never knew animation could be like this. It opened my eyes to stories more complex than anything emerging from a saccharin-laden Hollywood.

That fascination was rekindled in 2001 by the incredible Spirited Away; not just a wonderful story on a number of different levels, but made using hand-drawn animation that was genuinely beautiful. I went on to explore the entire Studio Ghibli back catalogue. Then, following breadcrumbs of recommendations, series produced by the likes of Sunrise Studio, Ufotable, and Kyoto Animation.

Selected anime posters

Anime has brought me uplifting stories and heart-warming characters… and a genre that remembers some of the best tales are fun. So yes, the genre certainly has its flaws, but at its best displays a realm of creativity.

Recommendations

Image of some recommendations

OK, onto suggestions for viewing, that most of you probably came here for. There’s plenty of anime for the child / YA market (think Dragon Ball, Naruto, Pokemon, Inuyasha) but I’m concentrating on anime that an older audience can also appreciate. These aren’t necessarily ‘the best’ anime has to offer, and aren’t my own top 10… but hopefully they give you a wide flavour of the genre.

1. Spirited Away (Film, 2001)

Scene from Spirited Away

If you’ve never watched anime, the works of Studio Ghibli are one of the best places to start. Directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, Spirited Away tells the story of Chihiro, whose parents are taken by the spirit world. It’s up to her to rescue them, and in the process she learns a lot about life and herself. This isn’t just a great anime but an Oscar winner. Yes, it’s a kid’s film, but it’s so good everyone should watch it at least once. The beautiful hand-drawn animation and the soundtrack by Joe Hisaishi makes this a feast for the senses.

Like Disney? This is better.

IMDB score 8.6/10 ; Rotten Tomatoes rating 97%
Currently on Netflix in the UK, available on DVD / Blu-Ray 

2. Cowboy Bebop (one series, 1998)

Cowboy Bebop scene

Cowboy Bebop tells the story of Spike and his gang, a ragtag group of space bounty hunters, eking out a precarious existence in a distant future. Every episode tends to be a bit different, depending on what contract the gang have – space opera one time, something with more comedy the next. A great series to binge on, Bebop just oozes with cool and a chilled jazz soundtrack.

Enjoy the Josh Whedon series Firefly? You’ll find plenty to enjoy in this.

IMDB score 8.9/10 ; Rotten Tomatoes rating 100%
Currently available in the UK on Netflix and Amazon Prime, available on DVD / Blu-Ray

3. Death Note (one series, 2006)

Image from Death Note

What would you do if you found a book that gave you the power over death by writing names in it? Light Yagami finds such a book and uses it – as he tells himself – to rid the world of evil. But a detective is soon trying to track him down. This show has been praised by critics, and is often a dark, psychological series (some would say scary), certainly not for children; and one that raises some profound questions. Note, this is one to avoid any spoilers!

The twists, turns and manipulation may well have you thinking of House of Cards.

IMDB score 9.0/10 ; Rotten Tomatoes rating 95%
Currently on Amazon in the UK (not free), available on DVD / Blu-Ray

4. Iroduku The World in Colours (one series, 2018; Japanese with English subtitles)

Image from Iroduku

A glorious overlooked gem. Those expecting a romcom go away dissatisfied; those expecting a fantasy are disappointed… Iroduku is neither of these. It’s the story of a girl battling with depression, which manifests itself in the fact that she has lost the ability to see colours. To help, her grandmother sends her back in the past to our present day. It’s a dialogue heavy slow-burn of a show, and doesn’t gloss over Hitomi’s struggles by providing a miraculous ‘fix’, but instead shows her progress as she makes friends who don’t give up on her.

Intensely beautiful animation and uplifting, this is a show many – young and old – could gain a lot from watching.

IMDB score 7.3/10 ; Rotten Tomatoes rating n/a
Currently free on Amazon Prime in the UK. Don’t miss it.

5. Stein’s Gate (one series, 2011)

Image from Stein's Gate

A sci-fi series built around time travel – or at least, the ability to send messages into the past. Set in Tokyo, it follows Okabe (a self-proclaimed mad scientist) who, with his friends, runs experiments from his run-down apartment. This series is a slow starter, but trust me; once you’re in the second half, you will want to go back and re-watch those early episodes. There’s great character development, humour, a complex and well thought-out story, and distinctive atmospheric artwork.

Stein’s Gate isn’t just a fabulous anime series, but possibly one of the best ever sci-fi series. Fans of the X-files may well become fans of this.

IMDB score 8.8/10 ; Rotten Tomatoes rating 100%
N.B., don’t confuse with Stein’s Gate 0, which is a ‘sequel’.
Currently on Netflix in the UK, available on DVD / Blu-Ray

6. Your Name (Film, 2016)

Your name image

A boy living in Tokyo and a girl living in the countryside have a problem; they periodically swap bodies! There’s a lot more depth to this story than that. Your Name is the highest grossing anime movie of all time, and it’s hard to believe it didn’t win an Oscar. Directed by Makoto Shinkai, the animation is outstanding. The handful of characters are well portrayed, it tells a cleverly-woven story – and even the English dub version is excellent!

If you like the subtle charm and symbolism in films like Amelie, then you’ll find this captivating; but anyone who enjoys great cinematography will love it.

IMDB score 8.4/10 ; Rotten Tomatoes rating 98%
Currently available to stream on most UK movie channels, available on DVD / Blu-Ray

7. Attack on Titan (Four series 2013-2022)

Image from Attack on Titan

Humanity lives surrounded by huge walls which protect them from the roaming carnivorous Titans – giants who eat people, seemingly without motive or reason. The tale centres on three young people (Eren, Mikasa and Armin) who join the army to help defend, but there’s almost as much a threat inside the walls as without. There’s plenty of twists and turns in the story; and both animation and characters are spot on.

Please note: the gore can be graphic, so this is not a series for children; but if you sort of enjoyed The Walking Dead, you’ll sort of enjoy watching this.

IMDB score 8.8/10 ; Rotten Tomatoes rating 94%
Currently available in the UK on Netflix, Crunchyroll, available on DVD / Blu-Ray

8. Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu (One series, 2016; Japanese with English Subs)

Image from Shouwa

A man recently released from prison wants to turn his life around by becoming a traditional storyteller (a Rakugo). A tale set in both past and present, it’s about the art of Rakugo and the core characters: Master storyteller Yakumo, apprentice Yotarou, and Konatsu (a young woman under the master’s care). Yet it’s also about the clash between old and new Japan. This is a pretty deep story, and whilst the synopsis may not make this sound the most exciting of shows, it draws you in. (The storyteller in me loves this one.)

If you like character-driven drama, you’ll love this.

IMDB score 8.3/10 ; Rotten Tomatoes rating NA
Currently available in the UK on Crunchyroll

9. Black Butler (three series, 2008-2010)

Image from Black Butler

After his parents’ death, a boy in Victorian England sells his soul to a demon in order to avenge them. The demon acts as a butler to help him fulfil this role. The interwoven stories, character development, and some really good dialogue make this an entertaining series. It’s very ‘anime’; definitely quirky with a dark edge, but also lots of humour and fantastic character interaction. And it’s another show where the English Dub is really well done!

IMDB score 7.8/10 ; Rotten Tomatoes rating NA
Currently available on Funimation, Blu-Ray

10. When Marnie Was There (Film, 2014)

Image from When Marnie Was There

Anna is sent to live with relatives in the countryside because of her asthma, (Now that makes me instantly relate to this show!) Shy and withdrawn, she finds it hard to fit in; but then she meets Marnie, a girl who lives in the house across the bay… but to say more would give away huge spoilers. This is a much ‘quieter’ film than many, but guaranteed to put a smile on your face when you get to the end.

The film adapts a 1967 British novel really well. If you appreciate adaptations of work such as E Nesbit and F H Burnett, you’ll appreciate this.

IMDB score 7.8/10 ; Rotten Tomatoes rating 88%
Currently available on Netflix in the UK, DVD / Blu-Ray

And more…

Anime with fights

Other great shows for different genres, all of which are worth a look:
(f) = film

The Small Print (things that may be helpful for a novice anime viewer…)

subtitlesTranslation: Most anime have an English dub, but some are only available in Japanese with English subtitles. Please don’t be put off, these can be amongst the best shows (and sometimes the subtitles are a better interpretation than the dub).

Watch out for surprises Watch out for that left hook: Sometimes the story will take a sudden turn halfway through. The best-written anime will have dropped subtle clues to this earlier that you only notice on a second viewing. Fair warning: This isn’t Disney, you aren’t always guaranteed a happy ending!

chibi momentYes, some moments can be annoying: There may be segments when characters appear more ‘cartoonised’ (often when losing their temper). Some like it – it’s animation after all, let it do things the camera can’t – others less so.

symbolismSymbolism is everything: Far more than in western animation, everything – music, weather, scenery, the background characters – may be giving subtle (or not so subtle!) hints reinforcing the story. The best directors put a lot of thought into the whole experience.

do your researchDo your research: Read a spoiler-free review before watching something new, especially if watching with children. There’s much anime that’s brilliant, some are average… and a few that may have you exclaiming: “WTF Japan?!?!”

Anime-to-camera: Quite a few anime have also had live-action versions created. Please, please, avoid these. You will be ultimately disappointed compared to what the original offers!

Finally…

Anime spectacular images

So there you are; a whole article about anime and I didn’t once mention RWBY. Oops, I just did! (As RWBY is not Japanese, it is usually classed as ‘anime inspired’…)

Hopefully this has shown you that there’s a whole host of great stories out there, just waiting to be explored. Anime provides both a lift for the spirits and an escape from the day-to-day. Give it a try!

Ian Raymond, 2nd November 2020; minor updates 18th February 2022

Shetland Memories

Right now under lockdown (as everywhere tries to cope with the impact of COVID-19) I can’t make a planned trip to my beloved Northern Isles. But that can’t stop me remembering past visits. So here’s my first ‘proper’ trip, when I well and truly fell for the place.

Arrival

Grey shards of rain moved across the distant little grey town and I held onto the deck railing. I had awoken early on the overnight ferry from Aberdeen, and eager to catch my first glimpse of Shetland, had gulped down a fried breakfast before heading out on deck. The weather made this not the most auspicious of arrivals. Indeed, Lerwick looked positively dowdy compared to the colourful little towns of Ireland that had been my regular destination for the previous few years. The ship sounded its deep horn to announce its presence, the boom echoing back from the hills.

Lerwick viewed from the sea

We sailed past the centre of the town to its northern outskirts, where the ferry docked between a floating dry dock and a rust-streaked cargo ship. A modern slab-sided hotel faced the quayside, an assortment of industrial units and a nearby power station completing the scene. Definitely not the most inspiring start! Still, I made my way back inside to retrieve my luggage from my cabin.

My fellow passengers from the ship were quite a mix. An assortment of locals, several businessmen, a group of loud American golfers intent on ticking off the ‘furthest north’ courses, and a very few other tourists. These all quickly dispersed in unknown directions, and I stood alone in the terminal building, unsure what to do. It was only eight and I didn’t expect the town would yet be awake. I took my time inspecting the tourist leaflets and bus schedules before heading out.

A walk into town

Thankfully the rain had stopped, but it was distinctly breezy, and the grey skies seemed to complement the housing estate and industrial units which the road skirted. Quite amusingly, after the 14-hour crossing, it now seemed the land was moving like the see as I walked along! After a mile I reached the town centre proper. Sure enough most shops still weren’t open, apart from the post office and a newsagent. It took me just ten minutes to walk the length of the ‘main street’ (what I now know is called Commercial Street). A few people were around though, hurrying purposefully against the wind, and I wondered what place I had chosen for a break.

Commercial Street on a quiet morning

Things were looking better an hour later; ensconced within a snug cafe, reading a ream of leaflets plied on me from the friendly tourist office a few doors away. (There was no point in picking up a morning paper; a quick foray into the newsagent had shown them to be a day old.) The coffee was welcome but the huge slab of cake even better. The locals around me were engaged in their own good-natured chatter. To me the Shetland accent sounded a beautiful lilt, to my ears like a mix between highlands and Scandinavian. But I could also hear some talking in a dialect that also sounded wonderful but was completely foreign to me.

“My, are you just off the day’s boat?” the waitress asked, catching sight of my well-loaded rucksack squeezed under the table. “Are you waiting for da bus?” I replied in the negative, naming my guest-house for the night in Lerwick. Her hand flew to her mouth almost as if in horror. “But they’ll be aye wondering where you’re at. They’ll probably be checking with da ferry to see if you missed it!” And for good measure, to spur me to action, she flapped the menu at me.

“Da Toon”

With three days gone I had grown used to life in Lerwick. People I barely recognised seemed to remember me and passed their hand in greeting as I passed, and I never tired of ambling around the little town. My first impression had been right; Lerwick wasn’t the largest of places but I never tired of exploring. Sometimes I walked up and down the hidden lanes behind Commercial Street; at other times I would stroll along the waterfront, taking in the constant procession of different vessels.

Along the Lerwick waterfront

On my first evening, as suggested by my host, I took a walk past the ‘lodberries’ and around The Knab. This is a rocky promontory circled by a footpath, where seals occasionally slumber on the rocks below. I watched the ferry leave on its way back to the British mainland. It was quite strange but satisfying to think that was the link to the rest of the world sailing out.

The Lodberries in Lerwick

When some of the frequent showers swept in, the weather would drive me into the Shetland Museum (back then part of the library), one of the cafes or inevitably, the friendly little bookshop. And there was plenty of time for another chat with the amiable staff at the tourist information centre. But it was time to get out of the capital and explore beyond.

Puffins…

The wind was gusting as I started up the winding lane towards Sumburgh Head, where the land ran out. The local bus grumbled slowly away on the main road behind me, and I kept an eye on the skies; it would be three hours until there was transport back, and little shelter lay around. Actually, correct that; in the exposed treeless landscape there was no shelter to be had!

The road towards the end of the land

The road ended by a weather-beaten lighthouse in an old scratchy car park, with a view to the horizon. (Note: this in now a more upbeat visitor centre!) The sea was picking up with an ominous swell, white-caps and an unpleasant grey colour; a small trawler rolling awkwardly as it headed further out. But then, just on the shoulder of the cliff, was what I had come to see. As had been predicted, cluster of puffins covered the area; making their way in and out of their burrows, plunging into the sea for sand-eels, or landing back on the cliffs… Although to be honest, puffins don’t so much land as crash. As tame as you like, any number of them landed within a few feet of me.

Puffins at Sumburgh

I could have watched the loveable little birds – clowns of the sea – for ages, but the increasing clouds spurred me to retreat. The bus still wasn’t due for ages, but the map spoke of a general store a few miles away, where I could probably grab a coffee while I waited. I hadn’t been walking for a few minutes when the rain started to spatter and a car pulled up beside me. I vaguely recognised one of the staff from a shop in Lerwick. “Need a lift?” That became a familiar litany throughout my trip. I’m not suggesting you could or should rely on hitch-hiking to get around (you can go a long time without seeing a car!) but it was certainly welcome at the time.

Beaches…

Pristine beach, sunny day

Some days later, I sat with my toes in the sand of a pristine beach, the sun blazing high overhead, a strong wind in my hair, and the sound of gentle waves all around. But perhaps that should be two beaches. I was halfway across a ‘tombola’ – a broad ridge of sand connecting an offshore island to the mainland in all but the highest of tides. Before me was a north-facing bay; or I could turn and watch the waves in the south-facing bay.

A few cars arrived on the distant small car park; some local families piled out with their young children, but they were all but lost in the vastness of the landscape. A short while later and a Leask’s coach drew up and disgorged a complement fresh off a cruise ship. But even these were barely noticed, most taking photos from the grey of the car park, a few gamely trudging over the beach for a more detailed view. (Tourists were not exactly a large quantity in the isles then; even now things thankfully never get as hectic as on Skye). Bored with sitting still, I trudged down to the waterline, and followed the feet chilling swash along to the island.

The tombola to St Ninian's Isle on a windy day

…And hills

One evening both the grey clouds and wind lifted, leaving a dry sunny evening ahead, with the northern sunset not due till 11. Following advice from where I was staying, I followed a track up to the top of the range of hills which formed the spine of the South Mainland. Now, islands are always hard-working places, and Shetland is no exception. The summit of the hill was marred by a huge transmitter and supporting infrastructure; the neighbouring hill by what I later learned were the ruins of a form RAF ‘listening’ post. Neither of those could detract from the view though.

Looking east, I was facing across the North Sea, the sky turning a deep purple with a creeping speckle of distant stars; occasional flashes of lights from cars on the main north-south road. Even better, looking west the sun was starting to lower in a molten pool of gold into the Atlantic. This was the ‘Simmer Dim’, the time of year when the sun barely sets. Vague shadows on the horizon were formed by the offshore islands, nearer to hand arcs of white carved by the sporadic beaches. There were no towns within sight; just a scatter of remote houses forming dispersed villages.

Shetland ponies. you'll find them everywhere!

But I was not alone for long. Soon one of the inquisitive greedy little Shetland ponies joined me, hoping that I had brought some treats. I hadn’t, but that didn’t stop a compatriot joining it; and then ten more, who insisted on following me the entire way back down the hill. Fortunately they stopped at the gate and didn’t try to join me into the hotel bar!

People and place

I criss-crossed my way across the Isles. Now I was heading north, up the long spine which makes up the ‘mainland’, and onto some of the outlying islands. That included the beaches of Yell, enterprising Unst (home of everything ‘furthest North’), and the beautiful little Fetlar. I rented a bike, sometimes used the sparse bus service, and cadged lifts here and there.

The Haroldswick bus stop. Yes, really!

I stayed in B&B’s, a hostel, and some of the small hotels that somehow eked out an existence, and wondered what Shetland was for.

To be sure, some people worked in jobs connected with the oil industry. The money from that seemed to have been wisely invested, which I could see everywhere I went: the good quality of the island roads; the well-equipped schools; and a network of leisure centres. But beyond that? (This before the Internet started to bring more opportunities!)

There were certainly plenty of people working in fishing; but Shetland felt different from the Outer Hebrides where that was also true. Tourists certainly weren’t an essential part of the mix (still being quite a rarity), unlike on Skye which even then was something of a hotspot. Nor were other industries and farming as prevalent as on other offshore islands closer to the rest of the UK.

Pretty village of Voe, on my way back from The North

I asked my hosts the question one evening, over a pint of locally-brewed Simmer Dim ale: “What is a Shetlander these days?”

He scratched his head: “I’ve heard it said an Orcadian is a farmer who happens to have da boat, a Shetlander is a fisherman who has da bit of land.” He looked at his wife. “Or did I get that da wrong way round again? Either way, we’re all a bit of this and that; you aren’t just da one thing.”

Last Night

Scalloway seen at 11 o clock at night

I ended up in Scalloway for the last few nights. This is a beautiful small town on the west coast, and is the original capital, complete with ruined castle, fisheries college, and a busy habour at the end of an inlet. One evening by one of the slipways I fell into conversation with a girl busy tinkering with an outboard engine, who I had met a few times at the local bar. I hadn’t started University myself, and asked whether it was difficult attending there from so far away.

I received the pitiful look my comment rightly deserved: “Been there, done that. BSc and MSc in Environmental Studies down in England.” After that, I hardly wanted to ask why she was poking around in a Honda that had seen its best days, but she took it on herself to continue. “There’s probably more overeducated people in Shetland than anywhere. I could get a better job elsewhere, and that’s for sure. But why would I want anything that took me away from this?” A sweep of her arm, clad in an oil-streaked yellow jacket, took in the town, the hills and patchwork of islands beyond.

Scalloway seen by day

Leaving, but not leaving

The ferry carved a white swathe across the calm waters as we left. Lerwick lay on one side, the sheltering isle of Bressay on the other. All familiar sights that I had explored on foot.

The isle of Moussa seen from the ferry

Again at the ship’s railings, I was in conversation with the ship’s purser, but I couldn’t resist breaking off for a last look at the landscape. The skies were again grey, the wind and the ship’s speed crackling the P&O house flag at the mast, but the conditions didn’t lessen the scene in my eyes. He chuckled and gave an open wave to a passing fishing boat, duly returned from a tiny wheelhouse.

“So. Da place has well and truly bitten you, hasn’t it?”

And I had to admit, it most certainly had.

Ferry leaving Shetland

I may not be able to travel to Shetland for the moment, or to finish off the books I am writing that are set there – but as soon as I can and it is sensible I will do so. In the meantime, be kind to each other; better times will be ahead.

On the ferry to Shetland

Read more about Shetland on my pages here, or for the official tourist board site click here.

Post created 06/06/20

So, what is RWBY?

RWBY posters, volumes 1 to 7

Once Upon a Time

RWBY is an anime-inspired series created by the late Monty Oum for Rooster Teeth. The series takes many elements from fairy tales and legends as it weaves its way. It tells the tale of Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna and Yang Xiao Long. (Or, if you prefer, based on their colours devised by Monty: Red, White, Black, Yellow).

They live in Remnant, a world like ours – but not quite, for outside the safety of the main cities the world is plagued by monsters called the creatures of Grimm. It is these evil creatures that a select few are trained to defend humanity against, becoming huntsmen and huntresses at one of the academies. This is the path our four lead characters choose.

OK, so it seems odd that someone like me who is devoted to books and writing would dedicate a blog to a web show… But I absolutely love the creativity that’s gone into RWBY. The narrative and character development has been (almost) as good as in a book.

Monty Oum, a fantastic visionary

Monty Oum sadly died in 2015 at the age of just 33, during production of Volume 3. He never got to see his creation reach its full potential.

But he left behind the storyboards for the show, which his long-time colleagues Miles Luna, Kerry Shawcross (and the rest of the crew at Rooster Teeth) have taken forward. RWBY is a saga that like any good book is on its way to a definitive endpoint, in line with Monty’s fantastic original vision.

As Monty himself said, “keep moving forward”.

Synopsis (No spoilers)

Images from volumes 2 and 4]

A naïve young hero, a rich heiress, a troubled rebel and a fun-seeking party girl. These are the four disparate characters who come together at Beacon Academy to form team RWBY. Ruby and Yang are half-sisters, but none of the others know each other. They each have some hidden reason as to why they have chosen to become a huntress.

Besides our four lead characters there is a wide cast, including other students who take their place in the story. These include the clumsy Jaune Arc, famed tournament champion Pyrrha Nikos, calm and studious Lie Ren and the bubbly Nora Valkyrie. But the story is not all about college life, there are monsters and villains to be fought.

The story opens in Vale, one of the four kingdoms on the world of Remnant, and home to Beacon Academy. This is headed up by the enigmatic Professor Ozpin, who always seems to know more than he lets on. Everyone’s thoughts are on the upcoming Vytal Festival, a biennial tournament between the four academies on Remnant; but although Ozpin insists this is ‘a time of peace’, dark clouds are gathering and the creatures of Grimm are becoming more and more active…

It’s no spoiler to say RWBY is not all it seems when you start watching it. Perhaps I can put it like this. Volumes 1 and 2 could very loosely be termed as “all a bit Harry Potter”; volume 3 might vaguely come across as “Hunger Games-ish”; volumes 4 and 5 veer sharply from much of what we’ve known towards a “Lord of the Rings-esque” mood. And then there’s volume 6 and 7 onwards…

About Huntsmen and Huntresses

Blake and Yang foing their jobs, volumes 4 and 1

Huntsman and huntresses dedicate their lives to defending humanity against the creatures of Grimm. They are trained at one of the four academies across the world (such as Beacon).

Each huntsman and huntress has their own specific weapon, often crafted themselves. So Ruby has her scythe (which turns into a sniper rifle); Weiss has her sword (which casts glyphs and channels dust energy); Blake has a katana (which also shoots projectiles), and Yang uses a pair of shotgun gauntlets. In short, whatever it is, get used to the fact that in RWBY “it’s also a gun”.

Notice how the characters in RWBY get knocked around badly, but still survive? That’s because of their ‘aura‘; the strength of their soul, which forms a protective barrier around themselves. While this is useful for our heroes in a fight, ‘aura’ can quickly be used up and then they are vulnerable.

Everyone also has their own individual ‘semblance‘; this is a unique ability of some type. For example, this might be speed or the ability to use mental tricks; but sometimes it takes years for a person to unlock and discover what their semblance is.

About The Grimm

Images of the Grimm from volume 1 and volume 4

Despite appearances, the creatures of Grimm are not biological animals (so don’t be worried at the rate with which they are dispatched!) Instead these are creatures of destruction; perhaps something closer to demons. This is shown by the manner in which the monsters dissolve into particles when slain. I would say more about them, but that would bring in some pretty big spoilers!

Continuing the symbolic fairy-tale twists often seen in RWBY, the Grimm are not named for their animal shape, but by an alternative. So a crow-shaped Grimm is a “Nevermore”; a bear-shaped Grimm is an “Ursa”; a hornet-shaped Grimm is a “Lancer”; and so on.

The Music

Jeww Williams and Casey Lee Williams

A huge draw to RWBY for many people is the music. Perhaps the animation and voice acting starts off at a basic level (see below), but both songs and incidental music are on point from the outset. Each volume of the show has its own opening song and brings with it a number of fresh tracks. (Spoiler warning – the lyrics to each season’s opening song usually contains a fair amount of foreshadowing!)

Most of the songs are rock oriented, including up-tempo anthems such as “This will be the day”, “Red Like Roses Part 2”, “Die“, and “Nevermore”. But there are also slower ballads, such as “This Life is Mine”, “Mirror Mirror” and “Home”.

All the songs were written by Jeff Williams, with most vocals performed by his daughter Casey-Lee Williams, who was only 14 when she recorded the fantastic “This Will be the Day”. Jeff contributes much of the guitar work, which is pretty good stuff.

What you should know before watching

Images of Ruby Rose from Volumes 1 and 4

  • The first volume of RWBY was made with very little budget. Accordingly, the animation isn’t the best (background characters are just black shadows). Most voice actors weren’t experienced professionals either, just people Monty thought would be ideal for the roles. (And they are.) But each volume sees this all take a step forward. For me this is part of the show’s charm. At the same time as the story grows and the characters flesh out, so the technical capability improves.
  • RWBY was originally a made-for-YouTube show. Many of its early chapters can be very short!
  • Besides the individual ‘chapters’, there are also a number of extra clips to watch which help explain the world of Remnant. There are also four initial ‘trailers‘ (pretty much ‘proof of concept’ pieces). You should watch these before starting the series – they will make sense later on!
  • RWBY is heavily influenced by fairy tales. Each character is based on someone from fairy tales, lore or history. Part of the fun is figuring out who they are. Also, see if you can spot which childhood story is a big overall driver of the tale… I won’t give that away, it’s a pretty big spoiler! Be warned, RWBY is not something for younger children to watch – there are some pretty traumatic twists to come.
  • Despite the fairy-tale theme there is – allegedly – no such thing as ‘magic’ in the world of Remnant. Instead, there is ‘dust‘; a compound formed of crystals which can be used as an energy propellant. It is used for multiple purposes – including (of course) weapons.
  • Reflecting the ‘story’ element, note how RWBY is comprised of ‘volumes‘ (not series), and ‘chapters‘ (not episodes).
  • RWBY is not just the tale of Ruby Rose (as some think). It is the story of all team RWBY. Unlike with some shows, Monty was adamant that he wanted four strong female lead characters; the storyline weaves to show backstory and development for all of them.
  • The story of RWBY is long and drawn out, as in any epic. Not every question you have will be immediately answered. Even small details that at first look like plot holes end up being explained at some point. Why does the moon look shattered? Who is the narrator? What is Jaunne’s ‘semblance’? Has Professor Ozpin really made more mistakes than “any man, woman and child”? You’ll have to watch to find out!

A Personal View

Images from volume 4 and volume 6

I stumbled across RWBY purely by chance two years ago. It was a night when I had run out of books to read, searching for something vaguely entertaining to watch on Amazon Prime. The rough description made it sound a tad more interesting than the usual TV drama series, many of which had become formulaic. So, I clicked on the link to start watching Volume 1, not really knowing what to expect.

Opening impressions? Hmm… Well, the graphics were basic to say the least – but after a few minutes that didn’t matter. The characters, music, and sense of story from that opening scene with Ruby (trust me, you’ll know what I mean when you watch) sucked me into the world of Remnant faster than a gravity well.

By the end of the first volume, not only had I grown to care for the characters and wanted to know what happened to them – like in all the best books – but I also realised this was a story that was probably going to get a lot deeper, darker and more convoluted. And believe me, it does!

So. Is RWBY perfect? The best thing ever? No, of course not. Much as I love it, I’m not pretending this is a Pixar-standard production, an Oscar Winner or the equal of Studio Ghibli. Both technically and in some of its story there’s lots of holes I could poke. But there’s a certain undeniable magic in this little show that many others lack. To be honest, it’s been a long time since any series had me both laughing and crying quite so much as this one.

Above all else, there’s a lot of heart in RWBY.

Thank you, Monty Oum.

All RWBY volumes can be watched for free through Rooster Teeth’s website. The World of Remnant clips can also be viewed for free om Youtube. Volumes 1-6 are also currently on Amazon Prime in ad-free movie format.

For the trailers see these links: Red, White, Black, Yellow. As already mentioned, the trailers are very rough compared to the later volumes (and even the first chapter), but they portray useful character background. Trust me, in retrospect the trailers will make a lot of sense… even if they just raise a lot of questions when you first watch them.

To start the series, try Volume 1 Chapter 1: Ruby Rose (YouTube link for the first episode).

RWBY Volume 1, Ruby Rose

And with all that being said, back to my writing!

Ian Raymond, Created 19/04/20

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A book in a year – The Rescue Year

My most recent ‘proper’ writing project, “The Rescue Year”, is one that I feel just a little bit proud of. You see, from inception to being fully typed up and the first wave of edits complete, it has taken just 11 months to bring the story together: 80,000 words, 2.5 A5 notebooks, 300Kb on the memory stick, and a fair amount of coffee. (OK, to be honest, it took 11 months and 10 days, but that’s close enough.)

Maybe this short blog will help explain the work behind the book. Even better, maybe it will inspire someone else to start writing!

Creating the Story

I never intended for the book to ‘happen’ like the above; that’s just the way it went. A paragraph scribbled down each day on the way into work; two pages at a time over a cappucino, whenever in a coffee shop; writing the last 1,000 words on the southbound boat on my last trip to Shetland. I could probably write even more during the year… But given there’s no slacking in my running, work, or everything else that life brings, that’s not a bad tally.

3 notebooks used in The Rescued Year

As I’m not yet published (which should hopefully change soon), I can’t offer any credentials of the quality of my writing. I will say what I have probably said before, though: For me, it’s always about the story, about the imagination. If I have a few scenes, a few characters, and can imagine the location… then the story just flows from my pen’s nib.

My stories aren’t thoroughly pre-planned. I may have a starting sequence in mind (where the characters make their way ‘on-stage’, as it were). And I often know sort of how I want it all to end, and even create a rough storyboard… but in between anything can happen. For example, I never intended a dog to feature in The Rescue Year, but at some point he just sort of strolled off the pen and introduced himself.

The downside to all this is that I genuinely feel sad writing the last few paragraphs; knowing that I’m saying goodbye to the characters I’ve grown to know. (And sometimes saying goodbye to a fond location, too.) That’s especially so when the book is a standalone like this one, not part of a series.

About the Book (so far)

So, what is The Rescue Year about? No spoilers – and obviously a literary agent or publisher may well ask for changes – but at the  moment, the following is what the blurb’ on the back cover might look like.

The Rescue Year is a story of the future.

But this is not a future of technological marvels and new worlds; it is a future where entropy and division have taken hold.

Into this landscape travel Ewan Rogart and Evie Yatoub, two ‘traders’ from The Isles on an illicit mission. When they rescue a young woman who turns out to be one of the feared and hated ‘snatchers’, their lives are changed forever. They must make the perilous journey to the all-powerful capital, in order to save everyone they know from a terrifying conspiracy.

The Rescue Year will take the reader through the dark streets of a mighty capital where the yeomanry hold sway; along the decks of the sailing ship ‘Hyperion‘; and explore the beautiful but remote islands where those labelled as ‘Recidivists’ live.

OK. I would be lying if I said the whole narrative around Britain’s exit from the EU hadn’t influenced this book (it has). Still, hopefully the reader will be able to bring their own interpretation onto  what the story and characters are about. I might also be lying if I said ‘The Isles’ in the book aren’t partly inspired by Shetland… but perhaps I’ll leave it to the reader to imagine the location.

Next steps

So what happens next? Well, don’t expect this on the bookshelves in time for Christmas, for starters!

The next step is a bit like baking a cake, where you need to leave it to cool after being in the oven. I need to leave the story for a month or two (some would say a year, but I don’t always hold with that), then revisit and proofread it. After that, as I learnt from Sunset (which took so many years to prepare for publication) – I will be looking for a fresh pair of eyes to offer an editorial critique.

And then and then… Then I will be ready to start submitting. I might well have found an agent for Sunset in the interim, but with The Rescue Year  being less of an epic, it may well prove easier for a first-time novelist to gain their interest.

So in the quiet hours in between all that and re-submitting Sunset to agents, I will be starting to tell/write another story. Whether that will be bringing Threads or Hamefarin to completion, or something completely new I haven’t decided yet – that’s part of the fun of writing!

Thank you

Thank you to all who continue to encourage me in this and who give me tips and advice – it really does matter.

As ever, please do keep checking back! The front page of my website will always flag any updates, and I do intend to try and put some short extracts up here. And if I move down the avenue of self-publishing, I will definitely be posting out updates on social media and looking for more advice!

09/08/18

November is NaNoWriMo

Er, what’s NaNoWriMo?

November every year is what is called “NaNoWriMo” – National Novel Writing Month. Now, at first, that sounds like some ghastly brash Americanism (and sounds as wrong as focussing all your attention on your Mother just on Mother’s Day, or devoting yourself to your loved one mostly on Valentine’s Day and not any other day of the year). And certainly the US is where it all began, in San Francisco in 1999; but if you are hankering to write, don’t dismiss this internet phenomenon out of hand and read on…

In a Nutshell

NaNoWriMo logo

NaNoWriMo challenges you to write a novel of at least 50,000 words in one month. There are no official prizes, no lucrative book deal for those who produce the most attractive or inspiring work, no rules on what you cana nd can’t write, no official recognition; it is all about rising to the challenge. And a challenge it is: if you are participating in the true spirit of NaNoWrMo, when you touch pen to paper / fingers to keyboard on the 1st November, there should have been little advance planning or storyboarding, if not quite a ‘cold start’. 50,000 words breaks down that you should write on average 1,667 words a day. That makes it seem less threatening, an achievable challenge.

NaNoWriMo is completely free. It is organised via the Internet, and you can get as little or as much involved with the whole event as you want to. You can simply set yourself the target at the start of the month, and congratulate yourself when your wordcount passes 50,000 on the 30th; you can create a profile and paste your completed work into the official NaNoWriMo validator to prove your completion (a problem for people like me who prefer to write their first draft with pen and paper); browse through the online resources that the site offers, get involved sharing tips, inspiration and work in the discussion boards; and even attend a write-in (they take place all over the world) so you can actually meet other writers who are as nutty as you! There’s even merchandise you can buy which helps fund the whole thing…

Full details are on the official NaNoWriMo website.

Why should I take part… and why shouldn’t I?

Let’s get the disclaimer out of the way first. Unless you are an incredibly gifted writer who has been hiding your light under a rock for far far too long, it is unlikely that what you have produced by the 30th November will be something that could (or should) be sent to prospective literary agents or for self-publishing. Even after leaving your completed work in the electronic equivalent of a dusty draw for a year, quite possibly you may take it out, re-read it, and realise that the whole thing… doesn’t quite stack up int he cold light of day. The concentration on the volume rather than dwelling on the quality may certainly not help hone your voice and skills as a writer; apart from anything else, you may find you end up with less time to read other books, a key part of becoming a writer yourself. And certainly if you want to be a writer, you shouldn’t just say to yourself: This is the time of year I’ll write, and that’s it.

BUT…

There are many more reasons why you should take part in NaNoWriMo.

  • Maybe you’ve thought about how you always wanted to write something, but you only ever jotted a few odd pages sporadically (or perhaps opened up your word processor and just ummed and ahhed before finding the evening had passed on YouTube and Facebook); the challenge of completing 50,000 words in a month might help get you into the habit of writing.
  • The challenge is all about the writing; there’s no time to self-edit as you go along, no time for spending hours getting sidetracked on ‘research’, not even time to falsely convince yourself that you’ve got writer’s block (you haven’t); there is just you and your story.
  • Writing begets writing; maybe the work you are engrossed in for NaNoWriMo generates ideas, characters, settings for other stories you can then develop in more seriousness.
  • At the very least you get to the 30th November and think: Wow, I did it – 50,000 words in a month! What else can I do? or OK, I didn’t quite get there that time, but I will next year; and I loved reading everyone else’s experiences in the challenge.
  • …or maybe, just maybe, the 30th November leaves you something that a few months later you look at afresh, and think: With a rewrite, a change to this character, and more detail around the setting…

Call to action

I have not taken part in NaNoWriMo for five years now, partly as I now have more than enough to work on all year round, but I would say try it at least once if you like creative writing and are looking for that little burst of literary adrenalin. This post is going up late, but there’s still time for you to sign up and get involved. Go on; call up the website now; whilst you’re waiting for the kettle to boil, for the dog to bark that it wants to be let back in, while the adverts are on the telly. And then get creating.

Official NaNoWriMo website: https://nanowrimo.org/

Read more:

NaNoWriMo logo

Page updated 06/11/17

Debut novel Sunset

SUNSET represents the first novel I am taking forward towards publication. It felt very strange when I finally took steps to begin the process (and more than a little nerve-wracking), but I know whatever happens they will be worthwhile steps. Now, this article is not a sales pitch for the book – not yet, anyway(!) – but it tries to answer some of the questions people have asked me about it and the steps I am taking to get it published.

Banner Liverpool, Writing, Shetland

ABOUT SUNSET

Set in the present day, SUNSET tells the epic story across four books of a group of friends caught up in a war that is not theirs, and the changes it wreaks on them as they discover a wider universe. The setting moves from the familiar scenery of Britain to the unfamiliar as the Earth itself is invaded… though this invasion is not what it at first seems. The friends’ struggle to survive changes from escaping a kidnapping to surviving a strange new enemy and learning a new way of life, whilst everything threatens to disintegrate around them.

By the time their story is told across the four books, they will have faced terrorism, piracy, front-line battles and the horrors of a civil war. Along their path, beliefs will be challenged and unthinkable sacrifices made, but they will also experience new wonders and forge truly long-lasting friendships.

In this, the first book in the series, the group of friends are kidnapped by terrorists, the experience forging them with the strong bonds they will need in all they are to confront. Phil Riwaun, nursing a private grief even as he tries to rebuild his life with Rachel Molan, must face up to leading them all to safety, whilst increasing chaos engulfs the outside world. Set against him will be his friend, Dave Brisbane, whose strict non-violence ethics lead them into increasing confrontations. But the real antagonist, surfacing like a decaying nightmare, is Asbara; a former terrorist and now mercenary for hire.

Closed notebook and fountain pen

THE SERIES IN A NUTSHELL

(No spoilers!)

The books that comprise the SUNSET series are as outlined below; description carefully worded to avoid the worst of any spoilers that may occur through knowing “what happens next…”

  • Book 1: A harsh cradling
    Returning from a weekend away the group of friends are kidnapped by a terrorist group. But their struggle to escape their captors becomes a battle for survival, as the Earth itself is invaded.
  • Book 2: Sunset
    Discovering that the invasion is not what it first seemed, and caught up in a war that is not theirs, they make the decision to join in what they see as the fight for freedom. New allies are made as they search for friends and family. But they soon find they have woefully overestimated their abilities…
  • Book 3: Sunrise
    Now separated and on many different worlds, the friends struggle to survive. Irrevocably, they are all drawn into the front line of the conflict; but not before they return to Earth and make a shocking discovery.
  • Book 4: Thunderclouds darken
    “And they all lived happily ever after…” Life wasn’t like that; the universe wasn’t like that. Unwillingly drawn into the horrors of a civil war, the friends must make the final confrontation with an old evil that is drawing the strands of history together for its own purposes.

MY AMBITIONS FOR THE BOOK

OK, that’s the promotional ‘blurb’ dealt with; now a few further things. Some of you reading the above description may think this book will not be your reading material. I would say wait and see. SUNSET may have elements of sci-fi, but I give you a no-weird-alien guarantee. Sci-fi provides part of the setting, but the books are about the characters, about friendship, and about the difference one person can make.

Wow. That all sounds somewhat overconfident, and reads as if SUNSET is already on the shelves of Waterstones, or amongst next week’s Kindle downloads! I’m aware that as a debut writer trying to get an agent for a four-book series might be ambitious; yet at the same time, if they like what they see with the first ‘episode’, knowing there is more not just in the pipeline but ready to roll may help. I’m also aware that the wide ‘cast’ in the story could make it an optimistic debut, but they are necessary for the full tale to be told, as every character ends up playing their part across the four books. In that regard, I take as my inspiration epics by the likes of Terry Brooks, Stephen King, and even Dickens.

(For those of you not in the know, long gone are the days when a writer would nervously submit their work direct to a publisher. There are very few publishers who still work that way, and for the most part, the aspiring author seeks to attract a literary agent; who, if they are confident of there being a market for the work, will approach a suitable publisher on their behalf. But of course, the Internet is opening up other opportunities…)

Now, of course, there’s no guarantee that an agent will approve of everything in SUNSET as it stands. Nor indeed any publisher they approach! It may be that the title itself is changed (and I’m hardly precious about that). They might request the four books be merged into less, or expanded into more. They may even request rewrites beyond those I have already made, further pushing back any date of publication. Agents have the expertise in what they believe will sell, and it would be arrogant not to take on board their advice.

HOW DOES SUNSET COMPARE TO MY OTHER FORTHCOMING BOOKS?

Not all my other stories could be categorised as similar to SUNSET. Not all are sci-fi, although most have a nod to sci-fi, fantasy or historical genres. In fact, I was originally tempted to base SUNSET in a historical era, but the setting adopted just seemed to flow off the nib of its own accord. That being said, I truly hope that my future readers twig what each ‘other-worldly’ setting is based on.

To date, SUNSET is also the only story I have written (or begun to write) that forms part of a series; all others act as entirely stand-alone works. That’s not to say I don’t have further large-scale epics lurking in the dim recesses of my fountain pen – far from it – but I would want to be a published author before I launch into the experience of writing such a large tale again.

Writers and Artists Yearbook being used

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

As of the date of this post, I am awaiting responses from my recent submission of the novel to selected agents; if I  hear nothing back, I will move onto another batch of submissions. All contacts so far have naturally been sourced from that useful tome, the Artists and Writers Yearbook, which I would recommend to anyone thinking of getting published.

Everything I have read or heard from authors indicates it wasn’t the first agent they approached (if any) who expressed an interest in their debut novel, so I will be patient and work solidly, as hard as if this were part of a job. Which, in a way, it is. But I’m realistic and understand that luck can also play a part – with the huge number of submissions each agent receives every day, it is never going to be easy delivering the ideal ‘pitch’ that will elevate SUNSET out of a bulging mailbag.

So, as indicated on my ‘About‘ page, I will be going down the self-published route if I can’t attract an agent – at which point I will become very interested in talking to people who understand publicity and marketing! If I believe anything, it is that SUNSET and its characters tell a story some will find worthwhile.

Meanwhile, work continues on getting other stories ready for publication; creating new ones; and on developing this website further. All told interesting times lie ahead, so watch this space. (No, seriously, do watch this space; with the daily 9-to-5 and all my running training, things will happen. Just perhaps not that quickly…)

SUNSET may be the first book I look to publish, and it has been a real labour of love – but it certainly won’t be the last.

 

09/09/17

Why Shetland?

This is something that a lot of people have asked me over the years; why am I always drawn back to Shetland? And if the truth be told, not something easily answered.

A special place

On one of my recent trips, the Saab carrying me away climbed higher and higher. I watched first Sumburgh Head then Fair Isle faded into the distance, and I wondered about that why.

Partly I think it’s because we all have that ‘place’ where we feel an instant affinity and sense of belonging; somewhere our memories are comfortable and friendly. For some, that’s their idyllic Caribbean isle, for others the street they grew up in. I know some who would claim it as a particular bar! There are a thousand and one things which make these wonderful isles unique to me, and which urge me to return, again and again.

Then, there will always be ‘those things’ I think of, whenever I imagine Shetland – too many to list in one post, but to be selective: Walking across the sand to St.Ninian’s Isle; Cycling along the lane through the trees at Kergord; An evening in the Pier Head bar in Voe, while the rain hammered outside; Hitting a ball on the Asta golf course against the wind; Enjoying an excellent meal at the Shetland Museum restaurant in Lerwick, overlooking the small boat dock; Seeing what the latest addition is to the Haroldswick bus shelter; getting re-acquainted with the Puffins, those loveable clowns of the sea.

First times can be deceiving

On my first visit to the islands, I stared with a mixture of bleary-eyes and trepidation from the overnight ferry as it approached the capital in a grey dawn. Barren hills slid past and the cluster of buildings that comprised Lerwick drew near, and wondered where on Earth I was heading.

I still wondered that a few days later, when I had already taken in the town’s streets and museum. This time I was not on a ship but a quiet bus, heading along under a sky full of wind-driven clouds to my accommodation for the next few days, in an even remoter part of Shetland.

But if I can tell you a secret… The place soon got under my skin. By the time I had caught the incredible afternoon light gleaming on the voes, made friends with some locals whilst sheltering in a cafe from the rain, watched an otter making its way along the shore at midnight, and generally became attuned to the islands’ character, I was longing to return.

Is it for you?

Is Shetland for everyone? No. Even I wouldn’t claim that. For example, tourism is still very much growing in the Isles, so there isn’t the level of facilities you might find elsewhere (not always a bad thing). And for those who enjoy high street shopping, once you’ve ‘done’ Commercial Street and the Toll Clock in Lerwick, that’s pretty much it, although there are smaller shops scattered throughout the isles. (These are well worth seeking out, they seem to sell just about everything).

Also, everything you’ve read about the weather is true and probably understated! Not to mention that just getting there is not always easy – and never cheap. Sorry Loganair / Northlink, but that’s, oh, so true.

And yet, and yet, and yet… If you enjoy wildlife, history, relaxing, fresh clean air, a genuinely warm welcome, archaeology, walking, deserted beaches, cycling, bird watching, good local food, diving, golf, fishing, museums or just outstanding scenery, then I recommend a trip to Shetland – before the hordes discover it!

If I were to give one piece of advice about your trip it would be to ask around locally about whatever it is you want to get out of your visit; Shetlanders (both natives and incomers) are rightly proud of these fantastic islands.

This whole site is expanding to provide more information which will be on the Shetland page, but for now see the links below – including that from the Lonely Planet, which in 2011 recommended Shetland as one of the top places to visit in the world. (Needless to say, they were right.)

Information for visiting Shetland – the official site

Getting to Shetland by Sea – Northlink ferries

Lerwick Youth Hostel – voted the best in the world

Lonely Planet recommends Shetland as one of the top destinations to visit

Ian

Post updated 15/02/22

Hello world!

Warning: this is the usual gratuitous first blog post! As (probably) mentioned elsewhere throughout these pages, this site will form my space on the web, featuring the books I am currently working on, some of the geographic research I have undertaken, and my adopted home of Liverpool and ‘spiritual home’ of Shetland.

Amongst the material I’ll be posting will be information on the novels SUNSET (a four-book series), THE RESCUE YEAR and HAMEFARIN; not to mention more besides as it flows off the pen! For those who have come here in search of factual information there will eventually be data and articles relating to geography – with my academic specialisms in this field being GIS and research skills. Naturally, there will also be information designed to encourage you to visit either of the very different destinations that Liverpool and Shetland present – both great places in their own right, and for very different reasons.

Check back late September 2017; by that time there will be much much more here. All recent updates will be listed on the site’s home page.

 

 

 

Ian.

05/09/17