OP: The Art of Peat Cutting Explained
Ileach Teleservices LTD., Isle of Islay, 1996. Staplebound paperback. Very Good. Second edition.
Written by someone whose qualifications are “twenty three years at Bolsay Moss-Islay,” this little pamphlet covers the basics of an unlikely—but essential—subject, particularly relevant to Scottish whisky drinkers.
Author Alexander Neish’s description of peat and peat cutting demystifies industry jargon in relation to the tools and processes involved. Aided by rough illustrations, he covers three types of spades, two types of forks, and the creel employed for carrying harvested peat. Neish also provides a brief cultural history before launching into the ins and outs of the cutting process, all imbued with his own chatty exuberance (anyone with an aversion to exclamation points ought to scroll on by).
A quirky, uncommon book best suited for someone who already has a basic understanding of the peat industry and can appreciate the zeal of an enthusiast.
A staplebound paperback in excellent shape with a few stray pencil marks and underlining.
