Story Harvest

A bountiful gathering of traditional folk tales from Scotland and around the world — told with warmth, wisdom, and the artistry of a master storyteller.

David Campbell’s favourite tales, captured in print with the voice, humour, and humanity that have defined his life’s work.

About the Ebook

Story Harvest – A Celebration of Oral Tradition

Story Harvest gathers a rich selection of folk tales chosen by acclaimed Scottish storyteller David Campbell — whimsical, humorous, tragic, beautiful stories that deserve to be remembered and retold. These tales come from Scotland’s deep well of oral tradition and from storytelling cultures across the world, reflecting a lifetime spent listening, learning, and sharing.

Born in Edinburgh and raised in Scotland’s storied Northeast, David’s early life shaped both his athletic and artistic talents. A cousin once‑removed of Olympic sprinter and missionary Eric Liddell, he shares Liddell’s story here from a family perspective. His friendships with master storytellers — especially Scottish Traveller Duncan Williamson — and many other tradition bearers have profoundly influenced his warm, engaging narrative style.

Alongside poetically rendered folk tales, historical lore, and traditional stories, David also offers practical storytelling tips for readers who may wish to try their hand at the craft. His voice on the page is as generous and inviting as it is in person.

A joyful, heartfelt collection from one of Scotland’s most beloved storytellers — a true harvest of tales.

Critical Praise

"No one has done more for the art of storytelling than David Campbell… This Story Harvest contains some of his favourite and most performed tales. It is beautifully produced by people who love and understand storytelling. Please read, tell and enjoy."
— Donald Smith, Director, Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Why You'll Love This Ebook

• A rich collection of folk tales from Scotland and around the world.
• Stories shaped by a lifetime of oral tradition and cultural exchange.
• Warm, engaging storytelling from one of Scotland’s most respected tellers.
• Includes storytelling tips for readers who want to try telling tales themselves.
• A beautifully curated Orkneyology Press title celebrating heritage and humanity.

About the Author

David Campbell – Storyteller, Poet, Broadcaster, Tradition Bearer

David Campbell is a native of Edinburgh who spent his youth in Scotland’s Northeast. Over his long career he has worked as a teacher, poet, BBC broadcaster, writer, and internationally acclaimed storyteller. His friendships with master Traveller storyteller Duncan Williamson and many other tradition bearers have shaped his warm, generous storytelling style.

When not travelling with his “magic bag of stories,” David can often be found at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh, where he is a much‑loved performer, mentor, and teller of ribald jokes.

About the Preface Author

Donald Smith – Storyteller, Cultural Leader, Tradition Keeper

Donald Smith is a storyteller of Irish and Scots folk tales, a founding member of the Scottish Storytelling Forum, and Director of the Scottish International Storytelling Festival. He works to recover oral tales from literary and local sources and is a long‑time friend and collaborator of David Campbell.

Publication Details

Publisher: Orkneyology Press

Publication Date: 2 September 2023

Print Length: 286 pages

Format: Ebook

Language: English

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