New Children's Book Explores Columba's Travels

Wednesday February 5 2025

The life of St Columba is brought to life in a new book for young people from a Church of Scotland elder.

Columba’s Travels: The Seven Sands of Iona by Andrew Symon tells the story of Columba and his missionary companions as they spread the gospel across the 6th century kingdoms of Dalriada and Alba.

Set partly on the island of Iona and partly on other islands and the mainland, Columba’s Travels follows the experiences of a 14-year-old boy named Galam, who witnesses the monks and lay brothers as they share stories of Columba’s life during a three-night wake. Through Galam’s eyes, readers will discover the inspiring tales of Columba’s travels, his encounters with pagan Picts, and his steadfast faith.

Each of the interconnected stories is named after a specific beach on Iona.

Andrew Symon is the author of the young adult series The Shian Quest Trilogy, which draws on theology and Scottish mythology. He is a member of the Iona Community.

Columba’s Travels is published by Wild Goose.

Life and Work is the magazine of the Church of Scotland. Subscribe here.

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