New introduction by Ian Rankin
_________________________________________

'One of the most playful and entertaining writers of our generation'
Val McDermid, Guardian

In an absorbing voyage as interesting to non-drinkers as to true whisky connoisseurs, sci-fi and literary author Iain Banks explores the rich heritage of Scottish whisky, from the most famous distilleries to the most obscure operations.

Whisky is more than a drink: it's a culture that binds together people, places and products far across Scotland's rugged terrain. Switching from cars to ferries to bicycles, Banks criss-crosses his homeland, weaving an engrossing narrative full of fascinating traditions, peculiar people, and the downright bizarre places he encounters on his journey down Scotland's great golden road.

'The book I return to most often . . . It's is like slipping into a warm bath.'
James Graham, THE TIMES (playwright and creator of ITV's Quiz)

'Filled withinsightful and witty observations . . . this is a rip-roaringand informative delve into the unique history and enduring appeal of this iconic spirit.'
VISIT SCOTLAND, 9 'must read' books

A beautiful hardback gift-edition with a new introduction by Ian Rankin. Raw Spirit is a fascinating journey through Scotland's famous distilleries with legendary author Iain Banks

About the Author
Iain Banks was born in Scotland in 1954. He came to widespread public notice in 1984 with the publication of his first novel, The Wasp Factory. He went on to gain enormous and popular critical acclaim with further works of fiction and science fiction. In 1993 he was acknowledged as one of the Best of Young British Writers. Iain Banks died in 2013 at the age of fifty-nine.

Reviews
It does what every good book should manage to do, and what a hundred other books on whisky (and a thousand other books on Scotland) have signally failed to do: makes you want to go for a drink with the author. * Observer *
Studded with bracing shots of pure insight and eloquence. And he's sound on the scotch as well. * Independent *
A very readable and hugely informative book, and Bank's gentle humour permeates the pages. * Time Out *
It's an engaging piece of work, part love letter, part memoir. * Esquire *
A very beguiling fusion of memoir, history and current affairs. * Glasgow Herald *



Book Information
ISBN 9781529124781
Author Iain Banks
Format Hardback
Page Count 384
Imprint Century
Publisher Cornerstone
Weight(grams) 498g
Dimensions(mm) 222mm * 144mm * 35mm