Michael O’Mara to publish memoir of Orkney GP

Michael O’Mara will next year publish a memoir by Malcolm Alexander, the only doctor on the Orkney island of Eday.

Close to Where the Heart Gives Out: A Year in the Life of an Orkney Doctor is Alexander’s debut book and charts his journey from suburban Glasgow to Eday, which only has a population of 150. In the book he talks about adapting to a rural life without modern conveniences, the ever-changing weather and extreme winters, and providing medical care with limited resources.

Nicki Crossley, senior commissioning editor at Michael O’Mara, said: “I was transported to the wild corners of Scotland from the first page. Malcolm’s journey evokes the awe that the Orkney landscape can inspire, as well as the challenges of island life. Gripping, brooding and beautifully written, this adventure reminds us to listen to our hearts, as well as to the rhythms of the landscape. I can’t wait to share his story with you.”

Michael O’Mara acquired UK and Commonwealth rights from Laura Macdougall at United Agents and will publish in hardback in June 2019.