When I think of Loch Leven in Scotland, I think of the castle where Mary Queen of Scots was held prisoner all those centuries ago. But the loch has so much more to offer than history. Did you know that “Loch Leven is home to more breeding ducks than anywhere else in inland Europe!” And it’s a source of so much natural beauty. In Joana Kruse’s Scotland: The Storyteller's Photo Guide, readers are led on a delightful journey of beautiful vistas, all captured by the photographer’s eye. There is so much to tell about Scotland in its wondrous sites. For example, the scenic yet historic Preston Mill was a great setting for scenes in the epic adventure of Outlander. Of course, there are the classic tourist sites like Edinburgh Castle and the meandering haunts of the city itself. But Scotland has so much more to offer for the photographer at heart.

Joana Kruse’s book, Scotland: The Storyteller's Photo Guide: A Photographic Tale Across Scottish Highlands And Islands, is the first book in the series. The narrative reads like the personal journey of two photographers as they explore and discover the marvels of this fascinating country. With spectacular photographs and useful tips on capturing the best images, the book also provides tourist information, like when it’s best to visit a certain site and, of course, where it is. The author includes interesting quotes, like this anonymous one: “You know you’re a photographer when you start noticing light instead of complaining about it.” And the author’s random thoughts on good advice: “People can add a sense of awe, adventure, or connection to the landscape, suggesting a narrative.” This is exactly how the book reads. This is not your usual travel guide. It’s a gem of photographic narratives to be enjoyed over time.

In her opening description of Scotland: The Storyteller’s Photo Guide, author Joana Kruse asks readers whether they are tired of traditional guidebooks and asks them to instead “imagine a Scotland photo adventure” where they might share a road trip with stunning landscapes. Their tour guides on this Scottish adventure would be the author herself and her companion, Brian. They offer not only travel and photographic advice, but also some 400 gorgeous photographs of Scotland, and, most surprising of all, an entertaining scavenger hunt across the wilds of Alba. This original approach to the travel guidebook is both informative and engaging and should appeal to all types of travelers, whether their interests lie in photography, landscapes, or folklore.

What I liked best about Scotland: The Storyteller’s Photo Guide is Joana Kruse’s ability to personalize each aspect of her travels as though I too am traveling alongside her, She gives technical advice about achieving the best camera shots possible of tourist destinations, sharing stories about Scotland’s long and rich history, or meeting colorful Scots with their own stories to tell. She even pokes fun at Brian’s clumsiness and his voracious appetite for plant-based treats. Her knowledge and enthusiasm for Scotland and her people are also illustrated in her sensitivity to the threat of global tourism. Kruse realizes that encouraging travel while still maintaining the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of popular travel destinations is a delicate balancing act. I truly hope this growing awareness keeps travel treasures like Scotland safe and accessible for future travelers.