Scottish History

Moonlight over Mousa, Gale the Broch Bird

| mandyerush
Moonlight over Mousa, Gale the Broch Bird Front Cover

In 2023, we travelled to Shetland to explore the wildlife and historic sites. The highlight was visiting Mousa Broch, one of Scotland’s best-preserved Iron Age brochs. I grew up near Torwood Broch—now called Tappoch Broch—but to us from The Plean, it’s known simply as The Pictish. I’ve always been loved brochs, I can’t drive past a ruined broch without stopping to explore and to finally see one, nearly intact was magical.

Moonlight over Mousa, Gale the Broch Bird Mousa Broch in the star light
Moonlight over Mousa, Gale the Broch Bird. Gale and Luna Fall in Love, two birds looking at each other eye to eye

The Shetland Isles offer a unique blend of history and nature, with wildlife encounters around every corner. Visiting Mousa Broch at night to see the Storm Petrels return was unlike anything I’ve experienced before. It’s a reminder of how Scotland’s past and present is amazing.

During the trip, we were so lucky to see a hungry otter, puffins flying over as we kayaked, swooping and nesting gannets, and even, from Fetlar Ferry, orca. At Mousa Broch itself, on midsummer’s night, we watched storm petrels return to nest inside the broch’s walls. Their calls and movements in the moonlight created a magical atmosphere and made for a truly memorable experience. The birds purr to each other, to find out where there mate is, returning during the ours of darkness to avoid predators.

Moonlight over Mousa, Gale the Broch Bird. Puffins and Gale meet for first time

This unforgetable trip inspired me to write and illustrate a book over the last two years.

I want to invite you to watch Moonlight over Mousa, Gale the Broch Bird.

It draws on the wildlife we saw and the experience of visiting Mousa Broch at night.

This little video takes you on a journey about my inspiration, this amazing trip and then the story it inspired. I hope i’ve captured the magic of Mousa, and the Shetland isles, the broch, the wildlife and the magic of midsummer on Mousa.

illustration of the wee baby Storm Petrel
The tiny storm petrel with it's fried Orca

Moonlight over Mousa, Gale the Broch Bird

To find out more about our Shetland adventures read here Secrets of Simmer Dim on Mousa Island

How to Visit Mousa Broch?

For more books by mandy

Magic, Mischief & Bogles, Inside the Bannockburn Book Launch!

Green Witch surprised to see the children
| mandyerush
Magic, Mischief & Bogles – Inside the Bannockburn Book Launch!

Magic, Mischief & Bogles, Inside the Bannockburn Book Launch! The Beastly Bogles have been unleashed! The launch of The Beastly Bogles Save Bannockburn House at Bannockburn Library was a truly spellbinding event. It was filled with magic, mischief, and marvellous young minds.

A Green Witch, a Cauldron, and a Story to Tell

To celebrate the release of the book, I fully embraced the magic of the Bogles—dressed as a green witch! With my flowing green dress, foliage-and-flower headdress, staff, lantern, and a cauldron flickering with ‘flames,’ I was ready to bring the story to life. And what an audience I had!

Two fantastic groups of schoolchildren, one from St Mary’s Primary and the other from Bannockburn Primary, joined me for an interactive reading and performance. The moment I began, their eyes widened with excitement, and soon they were gasping, giggling, and eager to take part in the magic of the story.

Cauldron and Lantern flicker

An Interactive Adventure

This wasn’t just any reading—it was an immersive experience! The children helped whisper spells, acted out parts of the adventure, and even helped the Bogles on their daring mission. Their boundless enthusiasm made the story jump off the pages, turning the event into a lively, magical experience.

It was a joy to see how much they connected with the story and the history behind it. The Beastly Bogles Save Bannockburn House is all about mystery, adventure, and a touch of Scottish folklore, and there’s no better way to experience it than in the very place that inspired it!

  • Witch arrives looking for the bogles
  • Green Witch surprised to see the children
  • Bogle Hunt at Bannockburn Library
  • Magic, Mischief & Bogles – Inside the Bannockburn Book Launch!
  • Lantern shining
  • If you are happy and you know it!

A Huge Thank You!

I’m so grateful to Bannockburn Library for hosting this fantastic event, to the team at Bannockburn House for their support, and most of all, to the incredible young readers who made the launch so special.

If you haven’t yet met the Beastly Bogles, now’s your chance! The Beastly Bogles Save Bannockburn House is available to purchase. Whether you’re a young reader or simply young at heart, this is a story you won’t want to miss.

Let the Bogles’ mischief begin!

Magic, Mischief & Bogles, Inside the Bannockburn Book Launch!

The Beastly Bogles Are Coming to Save Bannockburn House!

| Cory Jones

The Beastly Bogles Are Back!

Something magical is brewing this January… and it all begins at the historic Bannockburn House!

My newest children’s book, The Beastly Bogles Save Bannockburn House, will be released late January! I’m so excited to share this whimsical tale with you.

An illustration of four colourful ghost-like Bogles, floating in mid-air with shocked expressions as they look toward bright red and yellow flames engulfing part of Bannockburn House. The Bogles are vibrantly patterned with whimsical details, while the dark blue and black background contrasts sharply with the fiery scene. A wooden staircase railing is in the foreground. The accompanying text describes the Bogles discovering the fire and huddling together in panic, wondering what to do.

This story follows four fun-loving bogles—Bruce, Bonnie, Beth, and Blair—who aren’t your typical spooky ghosts. These cheerful wee spirits have a knack for mischief and a heart full of kindness. But when disaster strikes and Bannockburn House catches fire, the bogles jump into action! With their unique powers, teamwork, and a little help from woodland friends, they save the day and protect their beloved home.

Inspired by real Scottish history of Bannockburn House. Mysterious legends, and even the discovery of Stirling’s town key. This book weaves adventure, folklore, and fun into a heartwarming tale perfect for children aged 5–7.

Keep an eye on this space and mark your calendars for late January! In the meantime, have a look at some sneak peeks from the book (scroll down for photos!). Join me in counting down the days until the Beastly Bogles arrive.

Will you hear giggles and whispers the next time you visit Bannockburn House? You’ll just have to wait and see…

  • A playful illustration of colourful ghost-like characters and animals dancing under a bright yellow background. On the left, a large blue and green Bogle plays a violin, surrounded by floating musical notes. On the right, a smaller Bogle with red stitching twirls with a black cat. Two bats fly above them, while a green floating bogle with stitching hovers nearby. The scene is lively and cheerful, full of whimsical energy and movement.
  • An illustration of two playful, colourful ghost-like creatures with mischievous expressions, peeking over a bed where a frightened person hides under the covers. The Bogles have quirky designs with bright patterns and green, pointed limbs. The background is a swirling red and black, adding a spooky yet playful atmosphere. A text box overlays the image, describing the bogles as mischievous but fun-loving, stating they hide behind doors, make squeaky noises, and howl in attics, though they mostly enjoy playful adventures.
  • A whimsical illustration of Bannockburn House, a large historic mansion drawn in a playful style. The house is outlined in black with bright, glowing shades of green and yellow, giving it a magical appearance. The caption reads, "Nestled in the central heart of Scotland lies the stately Bannockburn House." The background and ground are muted green, emphasising the structure's charm and vibrancy.
  • The cover of the book "Beastly Bogles of Bannockburn House" by Mandy Elizabeth Rush. The illustration features two colourful, whimsical ghost-like creatures with playful expressions and detailed patterns, floating near a wooden staircase. A bright red and yellow flame is visible in the background, suggesting a fire. The title is written in a child-friendly, quirky font at the top, and the author's name appears at the bottom. The background is a dark, moody blue, creating a contrast with the vibrant characters and flame.
  • An illustration of four colourful ghost-like Bogles, floating in mid-air with shocked expressions as they look toward bright red and yellow flames engulfing part of Bannockburn House. The Bogles are vibrantly patterned with whimsical details, while the dark blue and black background contrasts sharply with the fiery scene. A wooden staircase railing is in the foreground. The accompanying text describes the Bogles discovering the fire and huddling together in panic, wondering what to do.

Beastly Bogles save Bannockburn House

Bannockburn House stands proudly in the heart of Scotland, brimming with history and charm. Built in the 17th century, it has witnessed centuries of stories unfold within its grand walls. Its elegant architecture and stunning grounds attract visitors from near and far.

Famous figures, such as Bonnie Prince Charlie, once sought refuge within its rooms. The house’s unique atmosphere enchants guests, leaving them captivated by its mysterious allure. Over the years, it has been a symbol of resilience and community.

Today, Bannockburn House welcomes history lovers, curious explorers, and those seeking to uncover the tales of its remarkable past.

Every visit offers a chance to connect with Scotland’s rich heritage.

Visit Bannockburn House