Fir for Luck is based on the true story of the township of Ceannabeinne in Sutherland, whose residents resisted eviction during the Highland Clearances – and paid a price.

Events unfold through the eyes of 12-year-old Janet, who – frustrated at being left behind when the men and boys go away to cut thatch – finds herself playing an unplanned, but pivotal role.

Barbara Henderson’s story encapsulates the outrageous injustice of the period, and, though written for children, it’s an excellent introduction to the Clearances for anyone. Dark events are sensitively presented, and there is also hope, and insight into the rich culture of that time and place.

Henderson is also the author of Punch, a story about travelling entertainers, set around Victorian Inverness (the author’s home town). She is starting to rival Kathleen Fidler in her skill at enchanting young readers with an insight into Scotland’s past.

Fir for Luck, by Barbara Henderson, Cranachan (age 9 plus)