An Orcadian Odyssey: A memoir

A warm, witty and richly illustrated memoir of life in Orkney – more Viking than Scottish, and full of stories.

An Orcadian artist and historian looks back on a lifetime in the islands and far beyond, in words, images and memory.

About the Ebook

An Orcadian Odyssey: A Memoir – A Life in the Orkney Islands

Born and raised in Stromness on Orkney’s Mainland, Orcadian artist and historian Bryce Wilson writes with warmth and humour about growing up in post‑WWII Orkney. In this vivid memoir, he recalls a way of island life that now feels almost vanished, capturing the everyday texture of a community that is, in many ways, “more Viking than Scottish.”

Across these entertaining recollections, Bryce introduces a remarkable cast of friends and acquaintances: from poets George Mackay Brown, Ted Hughes and Seamus Heaney, to playwright Christopher Fry and painters Sylvia Wishart and Stanley Cursitor. Less famous but equally delightful are Orkney’s own “Spice Girls” – a middle‑aged accordion and fiddle trio – alongside Margaret Atwood, Barbara Rae RA, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, Charles Dickens’ great‑great‑grandson and even the occasional royal visitor.

With the voice of a natural storyteller, Bryce shares the origin of Orkney’s “Back to Denmark” movement, the early days of Stromness’ Pier Arts Centre, and the creation of Orkney’s museums, in which he played a major role. Childhood holidays on the tiny island of Graemsay sit alongside tales of campaigns to secure recognition for Arctic explorer Dr John Rae. Like his sea‑faring Orcadian forebears, Bryce travels far beyond Orkney – to Egypt, Russia, Spain, Thailand and Borneo – before returning home to tell of renewed links between Orcadians and their Canadian Métis relatives.

Liberally illustrated with Bryce’s own full‑colour artwork, and threaded through with his poetry and contributions from friends, An Orcadian Odyssey is a rich, affectionate portrait of Orkney life past and present.

A treasure for anyone who loves Orkney, island memoir, and stories rooted in place and community.

Critical Praise

"In this delightful, humorous, warm book Bryce describes not only his wandering the globe from Arctic Canada to Brunei but also his wandering through early memories of childhood… In this interesting book Bryce makes full use of his art skills in the beautiful illustrations which accompany the tales. I loved the homely, simple style of the script which makes it a great pleasure to read and I recommend the Odyssey thoroughly."
— Gregor Lamb

Why You'll Love This Ebook

• A vivid memoir of Orkney life: From post‑war Stromness to the present day.
• Rich cultural tapestry: Encounters with poets, painters, composers and island characters.
• Global wanderings: Journeys from Orkney to Egypt, Russia, Spain, Thailand, Borneo and beyond.
• Beautifully illustrated: Full‑colour artwork and poetry by the author, with contributions from friends.
• Perfect for lovers of island stories: A deeply personal, generous portrait of an Orcadian life.

About the Author

Bryce Wilson – Orcadian Artist, Historian, and Storyteller

Bryce Wilson is a Stromness native and graduate of Gray’s School of Art in Aberdeen. He spent most of his working life in Orkney’s museums and schools, helping to shape how the islands’ history and culture are preserved and shared.

Now retired, he continues to promote Orkney’s heritage from his home in Stromness, writing books for readers who are curious about island life, past and present. His work combines an artist’s eye with a historian’s attention to detail and a storyteller’s warmth.

About Orkneyology Press

Orkneyology Press publishes stories rooted in Orkney’s people, places and traditions — from folklore and history to memoir and contemporary island life. An Orcadian Odyssey is one of their flagship titles, marking the press’s venture into publishing life writing from within the islands themselves.

Publication Details

Publisher: Orkneyology Press

Publication Date: 21 November 2022

Print Length: 220 pages

Format: Ebook

Language: English

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