Ian R. Hamilton (1925–2022)

A page turner of a tale that I sped through from start to finish in one day. I appreciated both the voice of young Hamilton, brash and idealistic and full of ego. I even more appreciated the voice of older Hamilton, reflecting 40 years later on the words the younger version of himself had written. This older Hamilton was still brash and idealistic, but time had tempered that ego. And he was funny. The post-chapter asides made me think, reflect, and laugh.

I admit, I bought this book after stumbling upon the movie. I am incredibly heartened that the movie stayed true to the actual events, as recollected by Hamilton. I am even more shocked that what I thought was artistic license to add suspense and plot twists to the story had in fact happened.

A great story of an incredible feat that was pulled off with more sheer luck and stubbornness than planning. It's more than that, though. It's a story of a people who, despite centuries of English rule, take pride in their cultural identity and long for recognition, and needed a rallying point.… (altro)

autobiography of the Scotsman who removed the Stone of Destiny from Westminster Abbey. This story only takes up a chapter as the rest of the book relates to his experiences within the Scottish Legal system as a Q,C. This is interspersed with adventures as a pilot, a market gardener, a museum curator in Kirriemuir and his attemp to cross the Atlantic by boat and his expulsion from Zambia. Hamilton has led a life full of interest, and far from conventional. 100% scottish and detests english institution-ism i.e. does not regard the queen as Elizabeth 2nd as she is the first of that name to be queen in Scotland. May be a tough read for some Englishmen but as a welshman I understand his views.… (altro)