“I’ve seen the second episode, too. And then I had to be supine with a cold cloth on my head. That powerful, yes.” John Doyle, film critic for Globe and Mail
Feeling world weary and need some escapist entertainment?
Look no further than the Outlander series on DVD based on the best selling books by Diana Gabaldon. Part swashbuckler adventure, bodice ripping romance and time travelling fantasy, it features a resourceful and gutsy 20th century heroine who meets a handsome highland warrior in the 18h century. Claire Randall is a British Army nurse enjoying a second honeymoon in Scotland with her husband following World War ll. She time travels back to 1743 where she meets Jamie Fraser a “braw” laddie fighting against English rule and she must attune her modern woman’s mindset with his 18th Century world view. The period costumes look authentic; the photography of the rugged landscape, castles, and crofts are lush; and the writing and acting are strong. Warning : scenes of gruesome violence along with explicit eroticism may offend some viewers.
Hungry to know more about the Outlander world while waiting for the next season? Here are some spin off titles:
Synopses, commentary, controversies and more are covered in The Outlandish Companion . “The Methadone List” provides read alikes for readers “jonesing” for the next Gabaldon sequel.
The Making of Outlander
is a “fully illustrated companion that offers exclusive access to the behind the scenes world of The Outlander. Includes hundreds of set photos, production and costume designs, storyboards and insider stories.”
Inspired by the romantic tale, Highland Knits is a rustic yet sophisticated collection of quick to knit projects from “Claire’s Rent Collection Shawl “ to the “Sassenach Cowl”. “All your favourite pieces worn by the beloved heroine are here waiting to be knit.”
“Take a bite out of Outlander with Outlander Kitchen the official cookbook from OutlanderKitchen.com. It retells Claire and Jamie’s story through the flavours of the Scottish Highlands and beyond.” As the Scottish say ith do leor! Enjoy your meal!
So wrap yourself in a tartan shawl, mix yourself a Rusty Nail and be transported to a world that “threatens life, limb, loyalty , heart and soul” * and is perhaps a wee bit more dangerous than life post November 8, 2016.
Slainte,
Jane
*credit to Doubleday
Readers' Salon 