What makes a place ‘special’? We all have some connection with the land, whether we simply walk on it or enjoy the view of a landscape. The connections with a place can go much deeper than just scenery, however, such as the personal links with farming, watching wildlife, or hill-walking. This extraordinary book reflects on the different ways that we look at the natural environment, alternating thoughtful non-fiction pieces and short stories that explore a fictional perspective. This stimulating format celebrates our relationships with landscape and place from some surprising angles to uncover the layers of the land that enrich our understanding of the world.

“A deep and enticing exploration of our sense of place, Frank Rennie’s new book is remarkable in its depth, intensity and imagination. ‘Among The Layers of the Land’ is a distinctive and unusual creation in so many profound and unusual ways.”

DS Murray, author of The Salt and the Flame

“This book reveals the layers and layers of depth to a place that build up to “belongingness”. It takes us on a journey from the bedrock and the soils, through landscapes and their natural ecology, and into a wondrous human ecology with stories that ripple with meaning. Digging from where he stands, Professor Rennie left me variously beguiled, astonished, shocked, and laughing out loud.”

Alastair McIntosh, author of Soil and Soul