Bogle

The Beastly Bogles Are Coming to Save Bannockburn House!

| Cory Jones

The Beastly Bogles Are Back!

Something magical is brewing this January… and it all begins at the historic Bannockburn House!

My newest children’s book, The Beastly Bogles Save Bannockburn House, will be released late January! I’m so excited to share this whimsical tale with you.

An illustration of four colourful ghost-like Bogles, floating in mid-air with shocked expressions as they look toward bright red and yellow flames engulfing part of Bannockburn House. The Bogles are vibrantly patterned with whimsical details, while the dark blue and black background contrasts sharply with the fiery scene. A wooden staircase railing is in the foreground. The accompanying text describes the Bogles discovering the fire and huddling together in panic, wondering what to do.

This story follows four fun-loving bogles—Bruce, Bonnie, Beth, and Blair—who aren’t your typical spooky ghosts. These cheerful wee spirits have a knack for mischief and a heart full of kindness. But when disaster strikes and Bannockburn House catches fire, the bogles jump into action! With their unique powers, teamwork, and a little help from woodland friends, they save the day and protect their beloved home.

Inspired by real Scottish history of Bannockburn House. Mysterious legends, and even the discovery of Stirling’s town key. This book weaves adventure, folklore, and fun into a heartwarming tale perfect for children aged 5–7.

Keep an eye on this space and mark your calendars for late January! In the meantime, have a look at some sneak peeks from the book (scroll down for photos!). Join me in counting down the days until the Beastly Bogles arrive.

Will you hear giggles and whispers the next time you visit Bannockburn House? You’ll just have to wait and see…

  • A playful illustration of colourful ghost-like characters and animals dancing under a bright yellow background. On the left, a large blue and green Bogle plays a violin, surrounded by floating musical notes. On the right, a smaller Bogle with red stitching twirls with a black cat. Two bats fly above them, while a green floating bogle with stitching hovers nearby. The scene is lively and cheerful, full of whimsical energy and movement.
  • An illustration of two playful, colourful ghost-like creatures with mischievous expressions, peeking over a bed where a frightened person hides under the covers. The Bogles have quirky designs with bright patterns and green, pointed limbs. The background is a swirling red and black, adding a spooky yet playful atmosphere. A text box overlays the image, describing the bogles as mischievous but fun-loving, stating they hide behind doors, make squeaky noises, and howl in attics, though they mostly enjoy playful adventures.
  • A whimsical illustration of Bannockburn House, a large historic mansion drawn in a playful style. The house is outlined in black with bright, glowing shades of green and yellow, giving it a magical appearance. The caption reads, "Nestled in the central heart of Scotland lies the stately Bannockburn House." The background and ground are muted green, emphasising the structure's charm and vibrancy.
  • The cover of the book "Beastly Bogles of Bannockburn House" by Mandy Elizabeth Rush. The illustration features two colourful, whimsical ghost-like creatures with playful expressions and detailed patterns, floating near a wooden staircase. A bright red and yellow flame is visible in the background, suggesting a fire. The title is written in a child-friendly, quirky font at the top, and the author's name appears at the bottom. The background is a dark, moody blue, creating a contrast with the vibrant characters and flame.
  • An illustration of four colourful ghost-like Bogles, floating in mid-air with shocked expressions as they look toward bright red and yellow flames engulfing part of Bannockburn House. The Bogles are vibrantly patterned with whimsical details, while the dark blue and black background contrasts sharply with the fiery scene. A wooden staircase railing is in the foreground. The accompanying text describes the Bogles discovering the fire and huddling together in panic, wondering what to do.

Beastly Bogles save Bannockburn House

Bannockburn House stands proudly in the heart of Scotland, brimming with history and charm. Built in the 17th century, it has witnessed centuries of stories unfold within its grand walls. Its elegant architecture and stunning grounds attract visitors from near and far.

Famous figures, such as Bonnie Prince Charlie, once sought refuge within its rooms. The house’s unique atmosphere enchants guests, leaving them captivated by its mysterious allure. Over the years, it has been a symbol of resilience and community.

Today, Bannockburn House welcomes history lovers, curious explorers, and those seeking to uncover the tales of its remarkable past.

Every visit offers a chance to connect with Scotland’s rich heritage.

Visit Bannockburn House

The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children’s Storybook Commission

Grand Hall at Bannockburn House
| mandyerush
The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children's Storybook Commission

The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children’s Storybook Commission

In the heart of Scotland lies a place steeped in history and mystery—Bannockburn House. This grand estate, with its sprawling gardens and centuries-old walls, holds within its embrace tales of the past. The whispered stories of the Bogles, or Ghosts as they are commonly known. But this is Scotland and our ghosts are Bogles and Bannockburn House is full of boisterous brave Bogles!

Bannockburn Bogle The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children's Storybook Commission

What is a Bogle?

Never heard of a Bogle? Ever heard of a Boggle or Bogill? What about a Bogeyman?

This ancient word is common not only in Scotland but also Northumbria. The words definition of one of a ghost!

4 Bogles of Bannockburn House The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children's Storybook Commission

The Commission

The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children’s Storybook Commission

I do wish my commission had started with a letter, sealed with a wax stamp bearing the crest of Bannockburn House.

Of course in the 21st Century is begins with a missed voice mail. Next there is a telephone call. Followed by a What’sApp message or two. They eventually introduce me to the faded elegance of Bannockburn House and the amazing group of volunteers who help to run the house.

The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children's Storybook Commission

Ghosty Beggars of Bannockburn House

The Magical Story of Bannockburn House: A Children’s Book Project

Bannockburn House is very popular for Paranormal Evenings. Thrill seekers can attend special events at Bannockburn House, wandering the dark corridors and uncovering its spooky past. Visitors to the events not only leave with a thrill and a CHILL!

Grand Hall at Bannockburn House

Unravelling the Mysteries of Bannockburn House

As an author and illustrator I first need to get to know my character. In this case the character is the beautiful old Manor House and the stories which inhabit its amazing halls and old damp walls. I receive a generous invite to walk the passages and hear some of the history of Bannockburn House by three passionate volunteers. I learn about Bonnie Prince Charlie, the Key to Stirling Auld Toon, The Fire and of course the supernatural inhabitants of this old stately home.

White Room of Bannockburn House

Meet the Characters- The Bogles

Fiona, a talented fabric artist introduces me to the Bogles she has been creating. These Bogles are made from beautiful pieces of recycled wool and scraps of material, buttons and ribbon. The ghostly Bogles are sold in the shop along with other amazing creations. The proceeds of these sales go towards the restoration work which will eventually see Bannockburn House reclaim it’s stately beauty.

mangle at Bannockburn House

Capturing the Magic

I spend an amazing few hours in the company of the volunteers being guided around the building. In each room a little bit more of the houses unique history is shared. Secrets reveal themselves and the atmosphere seeps into my bones.

I take lots of photos, ask lots of questions. All the information, the sights, sounds, smells, penetrate my being. Finally the story of the Beastly Bogles of Bannockburn House slowly begins to take shape!

The Story becomes a Reality

The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children’s Storybook Commission. At last the story of the Beastly Bogles is now written. The next stage of this fun process is illustrating the antics of the Bogles and their amazing adventure!

To learn more about my visit to Bannockburn House and it’s history go to our wee wild adventures website

For more books by Mandy

Flannelfoot a Scottish Bogeyman another tale of things that creep in the night.

Isobel Gowdie the Green Witch of Auldearn another true tale and this time a wee Scottish Witch.