If you are like me, and haven't read this book rather in the way that reading the build up to last year's FA Cup Final may appear to be information past its sell by date, then please think again. Yes, we now know the result of the Scottish Independence Referendum and, yes, the last eight pages of this book are now surplus to requirement, but the first 310 are still more than relevant.

Firstly, this book gives one of the best histories of Scotland that I have come across. It takes us from the days of Robert the Bruce, to modern the modern day. It is an unbiased history that filled in many gaps in my knowledge of our Northern brethren.

This would, of itself, be sufficient reason to recommend reading this tome but, for anyone with an interest in British politics, it goes a stage further. We get a real insight into the outdated, South Eastern nature of the Government of Great Britain and, I think unintentionally, it gives an insight into the refreshing nature of proportional representation in the political arena. The people of Scotland have got involved in this debate and, perhaps to a slightly lesser extent, into their regular day to day politics and, there is clear evidence that PR has helped to engender this belief that each citizen's voice counts. I am involved in politics within England and the thing that I hear most is, "What's the point? The main parties are so similar and have things wrapped up."

Perhaps, you will read this book and come to different conclusions to me. Iain MacWhirter gives the facts and leaves his reader to draw conclusions. The one thing that I will guarantee is that reading this book will be entertaining and informing. ( )