The Outlandish Companion (Revised and Updated): Companion to Outlander, Dragonfly in Amber, Voyager, and Drums of Autumn

I realize now I would have gained more insight if I had purchased this while reading the first books. However, they came as a gift and thus I didn't even know of the Companion existed until I had finished the first vol. I checked out the Companion at a bookstore and here on Amazon and decided it was too expensive! But I was wrong. When I finally did get around to purchasing it, I immediately understood it would have been worth the earlier price as it is such a valuable adjunct to reading the books! All the questions I had been noting on some scratch paper; all the words I wanted to look up; the history side bars; the locations-real/fictional....everything was explained/defined/elaborated upon and MORE. I whole heartedly urge everyone reading any of the Outlander series to get this book as you will never be sorry for all the wonderful back story and asides and definitions and translations, the maps the footnotes, the resources for your further discovery......IT'S ALL HERE IN THE AUTHOR'S WONDERFUL STYLE.

I truly love the Outlander series and am eagerly awaiting book 9 and the Starz season 5. I thought this would be a good time to try the Outlandish Companion, especially given all those 5 star reviews. Alas, I found large sections of it to be of limited interest. I am a fan of Diana, and it was interesting to hear how she approaches story telling and how she started writing. What I wanted was more background information about the characters and perhaps to elaborate on their stories and such. Now there was some of that, but there was much more in the way of lists "of things" and old Compuserve dialog. I guess it just didn't make me want to read every page. Considering the price and my expectations from the many raving reviews, I was left a bit disappointed. However, I still think the Outlander series is wonderful, some of the most entertaining fiction I have ever read (or watched).

I look forward to the second volume of The Outlandish Companion, to be released within a matter of days, covering the second four of eight books published to date from The Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. This Companion book is not a novel, but a tome put together to answer a myriad of questions posed by fans and others, about the author, the books, the series' characters, and even some of the history behind the stories. In some ways, this is how I'd have expected a "All you ever wanted to know about Diana Gabaldon and her craft but were afraid or unable to ask...." book to be. It is so much more, because you are drawn into an understanding of how this author crafts her books. You also appreciate that she does what scarcely any other historical novelist has done, that I'm aware, and that is, her companion book contains an entire chapter devoted to all of the errors from the first four books that, to date, either Gabaldon has determined herself or has been made aware of by her readers. All sorts of interesting information and stories related to the content of the first four novels comprising The Outlander Series is found in the Companion, not to mention bibliography, pronunciations, and a listing of other authors and books to turn to during the wait for the next volume (nine). If you have read all eight books as I did between May and September of this year, and are "addicted" then this "methadone list" is a blessing. Most appreciated in this newly revised version are some stunning photographs from the 2014-15 Outlander TV series, season one, produced for STARZ. After having perused this book, I feel as though I have met and enjoyed lively in-person discussions with Diana, and I'm hoping to be equally happy with the second Outlandish Companion, especially because, in my estimation, Gabaldon's novels have become better and better with each subsequent publication. My expections are that the second Companion will be more "outlandish" (ha!) than the first!

Very interesting to see her frame of mind & thought patterns while working on these books! While it is a just a companion book, if you want to have a quick guide while reading the books for reference this works well since the author wrote it herself. What I mean by this- is that I bought other Outlander guides, not worth the money at all. So I guess you get what you pay for, so having one based & written by Diana Gabaldon is fun to have with all the books. I wouldn't suggest reading it instead tho- as she fleshes out the stories in her books & this is more like an outline she used for each book- so while it does tell you the stories- they aren't exactly the same as the books themselves.

This is a must for any fan of the books and the television show. The book gives a who's who list of the characters for the first four books. This is extremely helpful as each book is MASSIVE and has a ton of characters which often are only in that one novel. This way you won't be thinking "Who is this again?" Also, there is a summary of each book so even if you re-read them often; you can refresh your memory about the basic story line. Trust me, you need this companion to keep up with the story as the show is often different then the book. A great buy and a great gift for fans of the show/books.

Is this a must have to be able to understand and traverse Books 1-4? No, however, it makes the experience of the books so much fuller and richer than just reading the books alone. I personally am fascinated with the Author, Diana Ganaldon. She's a fascinating woman that was ahead of her time (Data Technology back in the day) and a great seeker of all things history. Diana explains how she became a writer and makes things I normally would skip over in any other book fun to read and a fascinating journey to help inspire others to embrace their hidden Author, consider writing and never give up.

Wow! If you are a fan of Outlander, then this is the book. Diana Gabaldon does an outstanding job of providing information on how she came up with Outlander. One of the things I like most about the book is the section on how she does her research. Also, she has a section listing the herbs Claire uses as a healer. The entire book is a fascinating read on the subject of all things, Outlander.

I had the old one,but I donated to local library this summer .I used it all the time for for character lists and had read some parts of it over the years. When I broke my wrist in March and was on leave from work, I got to read the whole companion which was very fascinating. There were parts that were outdated which why is I got the revised version. It still has my favorite things from the older version plus new material I can't wait to read. It is a shame that the photos from the show are black and white,not in color.

As with all of Diana's books there is a huge amount of information. Some times you want a little background to events in stories and this book provides that. I have found the books from which she draws information to be interesting as well.

I honestly didn't use this as much as I thought I would, but it was good for doing a little review before my Book Club meetings. We are reading the entire series and have all watched the series on TV. We are true Outlander Fans, and I honestly purchase just about anything having to do with the series. I didn't need this book, but I suppose it was helpful as a summary referral.

I realize now I would have gained more insight if I had purchased this while reading the first books. However, they came as a gift and thus I didn't even know of the Companion existed until I had finished the first vol. I checked out the Companion at a bookstore and here on Amazon and decided it was too expensive! But I was wrong. When I finally did get around to purchasing it, I immediately understood it would have been worth the earlier price as it is such a valuable adjunct to reading the books! All the questions I had been noting on some scratch paper; all the words I wanted to look up; the history side bars; the locations-real/fictional....everything was explained/defined/elaborated upon and MORE. I whole heartedly urge everyone reading any of the Outlander series to get this book as you will never be sorry for all the wonderful back story and asides and definitions and translations, the maps the footnotes, the resources for your further discovery......IT'S ALL HERE IN THE AUTHOR'S WONDERFUL STYLE.

I truly love the Outlander series and am eagerly awaiting book 9 and the Starz season 5. I thought this would be a good time to try the Outlandish Companion, especially given all those 5 star reviews. Alas, I found large sections of it to be of limited interest. I am a fan of Diana, and it was interesting to hear how she approaches story telling and how she started writing. What I wanted was more background information about the characters and perhaps to elaborate on their stories and such. Now there was some of that, but there was much more in the way of lists "of things" and old Compuserve dialog. I guess it just didn't make me want to read every page. Considering the price and my expectations from the many raving reviews, I was left a bit disappointed. However, I still think the Outlander series is wonderful, some of the most entertaining fiction I have ever read (or watched).

I look forward to the second volume of The Outlandish Companion, to be released within a matter of days, covering the second four of eight books published to date from The Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. This Companion book is not a novel, but a tome put together to answer a myriad of questions posed by fans and others, about the author, the books, the series' characters, and even some of the history behind the stories. In some ways, this is how I'd have expected a "All you ever wanted to know about Diana Gabaldon and her craft but were afraid or unable to ask...." book to be. It is so much more, because you are drawn into an understanding of how this author crafts her books. You also appreciate that she does what scarcely any other historical novelist has done, that I'm aware, and that is, her companion book contains an entire chapter devoted to all of the errors from the first four books that, to date, either Gabaldon has determined herself or has been made aware of by her readers. All sorts of interesting information and stories related to the content of the first four novels comprising The Outlander Series is found in the Companion, not to mention bibliography, pronunciations, and a listing of other authors and books to turn to during the wait for the next volume (nine). If you have read all eight books as I did between May and September of this year, and are "addicted" then this "methadone list" is a blessing. Most appreciated in this newly revised version are some stunning photographs from the 2014-15 Outlander TV series, season one, produced for STARZ. After having perused this book, I feel as though I have met and enjoyed lively in-person discussions with Diana, and I'm hoping to be equally happy with the second Outlandish Companion, especially because, in my estimation, Gabaldon's novels have become better and better with each subsequent publication. My expections are that the second Companion will be more "outlandish" (ha!) than the first!

Very interesting to see her frame of mind & thought patterns while working on these books! While it is a just a companion book, if you want to have a quick guide while reading the books for reference this works well since the author wrote it herself. What I mean by this- is that I bought other Outlander guides, not worth the money at all. So I guess you get what you pay for, so having one based & written by Diana Gabaldon is fun to have with all the books. I wouldn't suggest reading it instead tho- as she fleshes out the stories in her books & this is more like an outline she used for each book- so while it does tell you the stories- they aren't exactly the same as the books themselves.

This is a must for any fan of the books and the television show. The book gives a who's who list of the characters for the first four books. This is extremely helpful as each book is MASSIVE and has a ton of characters which often are only in that one novel. This way you won't be thinking "Who is this again?" Also, there is a summary of each book so even if you re-read them often; you can refresh your memory about the basic story line. Trust me, you need this companion to keep up with the story as the show is often different then the book. A great buy and a great gift for fans of the show/books.

Is this a must have to be able to understand and traverse Books 1-4? No, however, it makes the experience of the books so much fuller and richer than just reading the books alone. I personally am fascinated with the Author, Diana Ganaldon. She's a fascinating woman that was ahead of her time (Data Technology back in the day) and a great seeker of all things history. Diana explains how she became a writer and makes things I normally would skip over in any other book fun to read and a fascinating journey to help inspire others to embrace their hidden Author, consider writing and never give up.

Wow! If you are a fan of Outlander, then this is the book. Diana Gabaldon does an outstanding job of providing information on how she came up with Outlander. One of the things I like most about the book is the section on how she does her research. Also, she has a section listing the herbs Claire uses as a healer. The entire book is a fascinating read on the subject of all things, Outlander.

I had the old one,but I donated to local library this summer .I used it all the time for for character lists and had read some parts of it over the years. When I broke my wrist in March and was on leave from work, I got to read the whole companion which was very fascinating. There were parts that were outdated which why is I got the revised version. It still has my favorite things from the older version plus new material I can't wait to read. It is a shame that the photos from the show are black and white,not in color.

As with all of Diana's books there is a huge amount of information. Some times you want a little background to events in stories and this book provides that. I have found the books from which she draws information to be interesting as well.

I honestly didn't use this as much as I thought I would, but it was good for doing a little review before my Book Club meetings. We are reading the entire series and have all watched the series on TV. We are true Outlander Fans, and I honestly purchase just about anything having to do with the series. I didn't need this book, but I suppose it was helpful as a summary referral.

After trying to read the book but failing (it's just poorly paced and overstuffed for me) I decided to give this a whirl to fill in blanks from the tv show. It's a lovely addition with a lot of good information about the books and the author which I did appreciate. Is this necessary if you're not an avid fan of the show but not of the books? Not really, though you might find some of the back ground info helpful and interesting. I especially liked the family trees and background on the clans.

Great companion piece. When Diana switches to another character, with another chapter, sometimes I temporarily lose 'sight' of whom she's referencing. A quick look in this guide refreshes my memory, and I am right back to reading again. Thanks, this is very helpful!! A couple of questions: I saw on your Outlander site, many items for sale pertaining to the stories/series. I am interested in seeing if they have the 'Wanted and Missing' posters (for lack of a better description) for the Highlander and for Claire for sale? I would be interested in buying those. Question 2, do any books out give an outline of the series, so at a quick glance I might be able to go back (for instance) and find what happened to Dougal? After so many pages, I think a quick reference back would be great. I am reading my books on my Kindle Fire, so can't Post-It pages as I might on hard copy. Thanks for so much enjoyment, a loyal fan. PS: Can't wait till the Season One, Part Two comes out on DVD and Kindle Fire-access.

I should have bought this companion a little sooner, but I am so glad I did! Loads of very interesting information contained within -- an insight into how she does her research for the books, an insight into herbs (now I'm growing them all over the place in my garden) and tons more. I am loving this book which I am reading between the Lord John Gray series. My nightstand is ready to collapse under the weight of Gabaldon books! I have the big books on Kindle for when I travel, but I have to have the big books near by.......if you are an Outlander fan, you will understand. xx

I wish the gaelic words were in alphabetical order and there were more words translated. Also, the summaries could have tied up loose ends and been a little more descriptive. The part I found interesting which surprised me were the letters written to the author and the author explaining all that goes into a book tour. I don't know how they do book tours with everything that needs to be done. So that part was very enlightening and the author describing how readers want her to write "Dear So and So, etc. and by that time we should feel grateful just to say hello and get her to sign with book. Also, she describes herself with honesty which was nice to see - I would never want to cross her. But overall the companion book is very interesting. I am looking forward to the next companion book for the last four books. And she's writing the ninth book in the series so I imagine there will be another companion book.

The Outlandish Companion is, as it says on the tin, a companion volume to books 1-4 in Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series. It is written by Gabaldon herself and has been freshly updated to include information and behind the scenes titbits on the Starz TV show. The book is a fascinating mixture of reference material - synopses, character lists - and anecdotes from Gabaldon about her experience writing the novels. As I’ve only read 2.5 of the four books, I have had to be a little careful to avoid spoilers, but otherwise I found the book engrossing. I’ve treated it more like a reference book - jumping to the chapters that interest me. Gabaldon’s wit and intelligence really come across in this book. As a bonus, reading it has FINALLY managed to get me across that reading hump I experienced about a third of the way through Voyager. Three times I reached the same point, put the book down and got stuck at the same point when I came back to it. Thinking about it, it’s because for me, that point seems to be the natural conclusion of the framing story started in Dragonfly in Amber and I really, really struggled to get past it. I’m now happily well beyond it and becoming once again sucked in to Jamie and Claire’s next adventures.

This book is a must have addition to Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series. It not only has the synopses to her first 3 or 4 novels, there's an alphabetical listing of all the characters (who have appeared thus far), plus some odds and ends like her travel experiences w/ airports, public restrooms and her public relations tours, her responses to reader's questions (it never ceases to amaze me what people ask or request), her writing process and some personal tidbits about her family and pets. I would've given this 5 stars but the formatting was a bit off the: the photos for Kindle. Still, I would rather have Herself on my Kindle. Her books are BIG.

In this book, Gabaldon describes what goes into writing her novels, and how they became translated into a tv series. She also includes a synopsis of each of the first four Outlander books, language glossaries, and links to many reference materials. She answers some common questions about her novels, and offers insight into some of the main characters in her writings. I would read the books first, then go back and read through this one if you want even more from the world of Outlander.

This is a great outline. Especially since so much time elapses between “seasons” on TV and sad to say, between the times when I read the books. This is awesome because Diana hits on the high points and it is enough to jar the memory of us old folks as to what happened and when. It is an easy read. I guess the only downside would be if you never read her books or watched the Starz adaptations. Love her work and this series especially!

My book arrived in mint condition. I love the extended content in here! While it’s not a necessary addition, if you love Outlander you will want this! It was great to flip through on a Saturday afternoon. The revised edition does have information about the STARZ show included which I really liked.

Love this author and this book is just fun to have. Answers questions quickly about the first 4 books that one may of forgotten. I used it last week when watching the tv show to see if a particular part in the show was in the book. Diana is a very present author to her fans as well. Love the entire Outlander series of books as well as the show ! Going to get the companion to this book too. :)

This companion covers the first three books: Outlander, Dragonfly in Amber, and Voyager. This is a large, hard bound book of 577 pages. Because there is so much going on in the Outlander series, readers can benefit from the information provided in these chapters: " synopses, characters, family trees, comprehensive glossary and pronunciation guide, outlandish web sites and online venues, research, where titles come from and other matters of general interest, the view from Lallybroch, frequently asked questions, controversy, excerpts of future books, annotated bibliography, and appendixes." I find the Outlander Companion to be indispensable as a reference supplement as well as a source of fascinating information. The extensive illustrations throughout are amazing. Recommended highly for all Outlander fans.

It was a poorly edited book, and I was sorely disappointed. No index or any way to look for the information you need. For the money I paid I could have just bought books by another author, telling a story that doesn’t make you pay. She wanted money simply because she was a media hog.

I bought this after reading all the Outlander books and do not think this is worth the price. It is interesting to read about how she began this series, but other than that, I do not think it offers that much. The reader does not need Claire's and Jamie's genealogy. Your phone will help you with gallic.

Overall, an interesting book. I enjoyed Gabaldon's tone, and her anecdotes throughout. I learned some interesting tidbits in regards to the Outlander series, the creation and thought that went into it, as well as her process. Even got a bit of a history lesson, which is always appreciated. My only (personal) complaint is the book took on a professor/researcher tone at times, and that there were a section that was basically the art of research. Truthfully, I understand why this is included, so can't really fault anyone. I just skipped along to the next section. I am very much looking forward to a second companion.

I love “listening” to Diana Gabaldon talk about writing her (FIRST!?) novel, Outlander. And then her experience of watching as it was produced into the wonderful mini-series that grew from it. And (I shouldn’t have been surprised) laughing at her sense of humor in the telling.

The book includes summaries of the first four books of the series. I enjoyed them. Sort of like a "quick fix" for my addiction. Other information and trivia is good. It's broken down nicely so you don't feel the need to read it straight through. You can savor it! Outlander fans should all have a copy in their library. ❤️❤️❤️📚📚📚

This is a revised guide to the original book, published in 1999. This updated information includes not only plot summaries for the first 4 Outlander books, but also information about the Starz TV series as well. There is no plot, because this book contains plot summaries, a Gaelic dictionary, the reason Gabaldon created the Outlander series, and other important information to delight fans of the series.

This is hands down one of the absolute best historical romance/action/fantasy series EVER. Ms. Gabaldon doesn't just tell a story, she provides well researched descriptions of the day to day lives and difficulties of the era and people she's writing about - the good, the bad and the ugly. Her characters are as complex and multi-dimentional as if they were real people and she doesn't shy away from anything. It's gritty, beautiful, sexy, disturbing, funny, and so much more, and the action never stops. The books are epic and The Outlandish Companion includes even more of the history, language and cultural details of the Scots and their roles in the political climate of the 18th century as well as background information on many of the characters and all kinds of fan links.

Love this book. I'm a huge fan and this truly helps recall the whys & wherefores of the earlier part of this wonderful story. I haven't finished it yet, but I get started on the section about characters and I have shared with my aspiring writer son the concept of mushrooms, onions & nuts.

This is an extremely helpful book! I was apprehensive to get this because it's kind of expensive, but it was so worth it! This companion covers the first four books: outlander, dragonfly in amber, voyager and drums of autumn. There are summaries of each book which is really nice if you want to read one book and catch up on the others. The summaries also show what Diana Gabaldon meant in some parts that were confusing. There are many features in this book: a list of ALL the characters in the Outlander series (a huge list as you can guess), genealogy charts, FAQ with the author where she talks about how she creates her characters which was really interesting, and much more! I would definitely recommend this book to you if you love, have read and took the time to read the outlander series. So worth the price! I hope she writes another one for the later books!

A must if you are an Outlander junkie. I love the whole series, Outlander and the other 7 main books to date. This book gives you information on the first 4 books of the series. The books are so long and complex that you can easily lose track of the various characters. Since there are many times that a minor character or incident looms large in a later part of the series, a guide to the stories is so helpful. I also love the author. Her mind fascinates me. Part of this book includes essays from the author, some of which are hilarious, I also love her insights on writing and character development.

This book is about information regarding the first four books and how the outlander Starz series began and she also answered questions from her readers who were complaining regarding one thing or another. I liked reading all this information and it made a lot of sense the way she answered questions. So that is why I have it five stars because she rocks.

Loved the summaries of the first four books since I lose track after all those pages of who is who. The glossary is great. Diana Gabaldon is extremely talented and skilled at research. She is amazing.

As I started the 8th book, I realized that I may need to brush up on the history of Claire and Jamie. Not only did this companion book make everything come back to life but it also made me realize why I feel in love with these characters in the first place!~ Plus it caught me up on everything that I had forgotten.

I really have enjoyed reading the Companion -- not in the same way that I obsessively stuck my nose into the novels and didn't come up for air 'til the last pages -- but, rather, as a nice "nightstand book," good for reading a page or snippet or chapter at a time. Sure, there are things I could have lived without (the extensive horoscopes), things I would have loved to see included, but weren't (Steve McManaman!, and just what additional paragraphs were added to "Cross Stitch" that weren't in "Outlander"), and things I would have changed (the foreign phrase dictionary in alphabetical, rather than chronological, order), but those are just my quibbles. On the whole, I found it tremendously entertaining. I was surprised, when I was reading the synopses of the 4 novels, to learn new things from Diana's summaries -- especially given the fact that I practically have the books memorized! Just for those new insights, the Companion was worth the price. On the whole, it was what I expected, but bigger, and better, and certainly funnier. It has definitely whetted my appetite for Novel 5...

I confident I'm like most other die-hard "Outlander" fans in that I continue to read and re-read this series over and over again. I'll go along for a while, then I feel almost homesick to go back and visit my favorite characters, so I'll re-read the series again and again. However, after I purchased and studied the companion did I gain an even deeper understanding and appreciation for all my beloved Outlander" characters. Now I wish there was an addendum that would pick up where this first one leaves off. I am so thankful that Diana is such a prolific writer, I just wish I had as much patience to get me through the time between each book. Deep down, I know they are well worth the wait.

Gabaldon is a prolific and entertaining writer. She brings her stories alive with her storytelling skills and command of words. This "companion" is a nice backdrop and reference to all her readers who need a refresher on the first four of her long novels. A big plus is all the reference materials she includes on gaelic pronunciation, maps, etc. I have all her Outlander books on my reader but enjoy being able to pick up this volume and thumb through it. I am looking forward to the next volume covering the last books.

Every Outlander Fan should read this. If gives great information from beginning till End. Learned many tidbits about Diana Gabaldon. I love her writing and she just captures so many great things in this Book!

I was introduced to the Outlander series by my husband. I had never read this type of fiction before. I must say that I am now hooked and am probably now ruined for any less talented writer's of this genre. I was instantly transported to another time, I could smell and see and hear right along with the main characters. Gabaldon's ability for fine detail is unmatched! As a writer myself, her books have motivated me, impressed and awed me. At 1st I wasn't sure if I wanted to commit myself to the time it would take to read four 800+ page novels, knowing there wasn't an end to them. Now I am happy to have been introduced to Claire and Jamie Fraser and will never forget these 2 characters. I know Gabaldon can't rush her books, which is why I say, she can't write fast enough for me. I eagerly await her continuation of this series. About the actual book: it's fascinatingly full of little known facts about herbs, medical knowledge through time, pretty much most of the author's research is in this companion, anything you ever wanted to know & a few things you didn't know you were missing or wanted to know. For true fans of this series, you'll want this book for the behind the scenes details that the 800+ page books didn't include (her original manuscripts were often 1500 pages & broken up into 2 instead). While you're waiting for the next book to come out, or if you need a refresher on the last title before reading the next, this is a great read either way. The book is an oversized hardcover of sturdy construction, meant to last through many, many thumb through's.

Great companion piece to the Outlander series of books & now the television show on Stars. Diana Gabaldon gives us full access for a behind the scenes look at her process, why she chose this story to write about, and explains why certain characters did whatever. She also shares her research, which is quite extensive, and some things that haven't popped up in the books (yet). This explains everything!

Answers to all your questions , though that means every reader will find sections which are just for them and other sections totally boring. I have been very troubled by recognising errors especially in Outlander and so revelled in the section dealing with these "little voids "in the research process . Not all my favorites were mentioned , should I send an e-mail ? ( g )

I have only skimmed over this very large book thus far, and cannot comment on it any detail. It appears to contain everything you would ever want to know about the "Outlander" books and the television series.

I have read all of her books several times so didn't think I would "learn" much by reading the Companion. I was wrong! Anyone who enjoys the Outlander series should definitely read this! Now I can't wait just for the new Outlander book but also am very much looking forward to the second volume of her Outlandish Companion. Definitely put this on your list too.

I have wanted this reference for some time and wouldn't part with the money. I'm even happier that I have the kindle version so I have it along with the book as I travel for ease of reference. Thanks to Gabaldon for sharing this insight into her process and into the rich history of the time.

This book is all about the extra little things you missed, never got or wanted more of in Gabaldon's novel series Outlander. The introduction is informative, enjoyable, page-turning and rather quirky in its explanation of Outlander's birth and much of the book is the same in its behind-the-creation of favorite characters; although she can go overboard with side characters that she attempts to highlight when she didn't do so in the series itself and the horoscopes of Jamie and Claire are clearly for fun alone since they only add to what any Outlander fan already knows about them. The best parts of The Companion are the language translations and pronunciations (Gaelic anyone?) of Gabaldon's bi-lingual characters' diction and the excerpts chapters that reveal future books for the Outlander series--You have to read Surgeon's Steel! The anticipation of where she's going with that little snip-it is killing me! Defintely a must read, but not necessarily a must own since The Companion was written before her latest book: A Breath of Snow and Ashes was released, so theres nothing in it about that book and her website hints at two more books to complete the series which will leave The Companion throughly out of date for any of us who are waiting for something new.

This book is more than I expected. I have enjoyed Diana's books and "devoured" them over the past year! I have just scratched the surface of all the information that it contains. I will enjoy it and savor it for a long time. I am an elementary librarian and am always reading at least one book but this series has captured me and I can't wait for the next installment. A teacher friend and I joke that we keep "converting other friends into the Jamie and Claire obsession" !! This companion book is wonderful for review and further entering the World of Outlander. I love all the history, illustrations and explanations. Thank you, Diana!

This is really nice for elaborating on the background of Jamie and Clare and their world. Diana Gabaldon is a stand alone author of incredible talent. Her books break all the "rules" of historical romances and adventure. Not just thick but every page loaded with wonderful story, book after book after book! No trilogies to hold this author back, Diana does it her way and so beautifully! Never stop dear lady! Now if they would only hurry up with some movies!!!! Cable could not do this justice, epic books need epic movies that one could watch over and over. If only Hollywood would wake up to the possibilities that these books hold.Some people would get rich but we'd all win!

My favorite author...the more I read the more I love her. She is accessible like no other and this is just one example. I am a part of the "Outlander" community sitting on pins and needles waiting for the next installment whether it's the next book "Go Tell the Bees..." or her next #DailyLines on Facebook.

This is a great reference book for fans of the Outlander book series. Goes beyond the books in giving family trees and other interesting facts related to the books.

In good condition & everything 2 do w/Outlander is going up in price I've noticed so, I guess I got a pretty good deal as well. Very pleased w/item but...it is essentially, A TOTAL BOOK written as AN UBER-SPOILER of the 1st 5(?) books of the OUTLANDER SAGA SO...if you haven't read them or even watched the 1st half of season 1 on Starz...DO NOT READ UNTIL AFTER you've done so...unless, that's what you want to do. For me this is a definite must have for anyone who collects the OUTLANDER books and wants to have a complete set including a companion piece like this.

Loved finding out the information offered. However the book was a remainder and the book store charged a premium price for shipping and handling.

This is a good books to fill in the questions a reader may have. Some sections I skipped and others I took notes for future books to read.

If you are an outlander fan you need this. I try to just read to the book I am on so there are no spoiler. Explains little things

Does all I want it to, and more I never thought of. Started the series when Outlander was first pubished!

Superb synopsis of the first 4 books; with fascinating author commentary, and superb additional information. Cannot wait for her to publish a companion for the last 4 books in the Outlander series. Highly recommend!!!!

This has a synopsis of the last four books as well as the Lord John Novelas. This also has the names of all the characters and where they are found and how they played a part in her books. She has such an amazing style of writing. I have read all of her books several times and enjoyed outlandish companion one and two

This is the updated Companion Book to Diana Gabaldon's first 4 novels in the "Outlander' Series, which includes insights and personal experiences and of being involved in the TV adaptation of 'Outlander'. So, to review a book which is a 'review' in itself, is difficult! But those fans of both Diana Gabaldon's books and/or the TV Series, will get much enjoyment from owning this book and delving more into 'behind the scenes' of' Outlander'.

There is so much information in it that cleared up a lot of the questions I had or helped me to remember what happened in the previous books books when the latest one comes out. She included the letters she received from her fans about what they like and what they don't like in the books. She went in depth a lot of times in her response to these comments. This was very insightful. They are family trees and a dictionary with descriptions of all the characters in her books. There are some unnecessary things in it such a horoscopes for certain characters. Another problem is that its volume 1 so this reference only goes so far. It covers the first four books and part of A Breathe of Snow and Ashes. I pretty much just discovered Diana Galbaldon and I listen to the books from audible so I got to listen to the first five at one time and had this book as a reference.

Love the characters she writes about! She never disappoints. Thank you Diana!

Good companion to the Outlander series. I have the original Companion published many years ago and find it helpful to also have the Kindle version, since I am now rereading the Outlander series on my Kindle. The glossary could be improved, however, by alphabetizing the terms. I look forward to Volume II, which is due to come out later this year.

I am a big fan of the Outlander TV series. Reading the books filled in some of the details. but in my opinion, she offered more information than I needed.

It is not quite what I expected but full of wonderful little antidotes and information. I purchased the hardback thinking I could use it as an encyclopedia and would find it easier to look up something with it than an e-version. That is not the case, maybe I have finally succumbed to preferring e-books now but it is quite large and looking up on paper pages is laborious. I will be purchasing the e-book too so I can do word searches. Recommend it highly whichever version you desire.

The Outlander Series of 7 books ( soon to be 8 in March 2014), are filled with memorable characters, exciting action, drama, humor, romance and time travel. The Outlandish Companion answers all your questions regarding the characters (who is related to who?), how do you pronounce, understand Gaelic, French, and so much more, including the most fascinating character of all..the talented author. Anything and everything you wanted to know about the first four novels in her series. The companion helps prepare Outlander fans for book 8, and the TV series which is filming now for STARZ.

This companion only encompasses the first 4 books of the series but reveals an immense amount of information and insight! From reading the synopsis' (over 200 pages long for sure) to discovering the histories of main characters and showing how their family trees connect and interact. There's an extensive section on Gaelic (with brief instruction on basic spelling, grammar and pronunciation) the meanings of certain phrases is handy to have. I have not come anywhere CLOSE to finishing the Outlandish Companion but I hope there will be another one encompassing the entire series!

Diana Gabaldon's books are big, dense with details and just wonderful to read, but because of their length and depth, small things get overlooked, forgotten, misplaced etc. This book helps you find them. It's filled with interesting facts and background into the books and the writing of them. It's like having a giant glossary with which to fact check. I love it and can't wait for Volume 2.

As a long-time Outlander fan, I truly enjoyed the Outlandish Companion. I appreciated the pronounciation and description of the Gaelic words and phrases the Scotsmen and women use. There were also explanations about the first 4 books and I hope when the series is completed, that Ms. Gabaldon will do another Companion for the last 4 Books. The company I ordered it from got it here very quickly and it was in pristine condition. I do recommend this book for those like me who like to dig a little deeper into the stories.

I gave this 4 stars because I love the Outlander books. But... I am new to the Outlander books so I ordered the Outlandish Companion book. I was so excited when I received it in the mail last night – looking forward to reading and looking at the “beautifully illustrated compendium” and “behind the scenes photos from the Outlander TV series set” (per Amazon’s description of the book on their website). But I was very disappointed. Illustrated it is, with stock historical images (which I can understand those being used) and black and white photographs that look like they were taken in the 1930s or 1940s, too dark and hard to see. Several of the photos I had to look at for a while to figure out what I was looking at. As for behind-the-scenes photos from the Outlander TV series – well, the only behind-the-scenes photos are black and white previously published promo images, some which you see in the opening credits to each episode. One in particular is a photo of Colum pouring a glass of Rhenish wine with Claire looking on. And when you look at the same photo (in color) on STARZ’s Outsider site - you see that Dougal was cropped out of the photo! I don’t consider promo photos to be behind-the-scenes photos. If you want to see actual behind-the-scenes photos - search online - there are many to choose from. I know this is just my opinion – and maybe I expect too much - but this has made me think twice about even reading this book. NOTE: Amazon, I would delete “beautifully illustrated compendium” and “behind-the-scenes photos from the Outlander TV series” from your description of the book if I were you. Delacorte Press production department – poor job.

Love this. It explains quite a bit about some of the scenes in the various Outlander books.

The purchased book was exactly as expected from the Seller. Thank you Seller! I bought the book as a reference book for the Outlander Series books that I have read. It has fully met my intended use of it. I have referred to it a number of times when trying to remember a character in one of the books or when I am looking for just a piece of information. I love ALL the Outlander books including this one. It is a rarity to find a companion book like this. I will definitely buy the other companion books Diana Gabaldon has written for the remaining 4 books covered in her series and this book's updated version. Thanks,

I have been a Diana Gabaldon fan for years starting with Outlander when it first came out. This book is a lot of fun. It has symnopsis of all the books up of the first four books in the series. I am so happy that Ms Gabaldon took time to write a book that explains it all. The Gaelic pronounciations are wonderful. The breakdown of all the characters and this history of the time period is marvelous. She did a wonderful job. She will remain one of my favorite all time authors.

A great look into the world of Diana Gabaldon and her thought process as she wrote the Outlander series!! And, as in her books, her wit is just as fun as she describes her reasoning behind some controversial scenes. Highly recommend!!

good synopsis...heading into second part of the book....

This splendid companion helps with filling in the small details of clarification to a wonderfully written saga that weaves engaging characters into a well-researched. historical backdrop of conflict, barbarous living conditions, discovery, and new beginnings.

I am enjoying reading the background to the first 4 books of Outlander. Have read her entire series and this Companion is a good review as well explanations of what is going on in the books.

DG's books are complicated and this is a great companion book to the incredible story she gifted us. Worth every minute it takes to read it. DG is as multi-faceted as her characters and stories. It gives a clearer picture of everything/everyone. She's a gifted writer, the consummate storyteller, regardless of subject matter. You'll come away speaking and thinking in a higher caliber of the English language at worst!

I read over half of this book before returmimg to the outlander novels, of which I have read over 3000 pages. The material in the companion has enhanced my enjoyment.

good companion to the books

Herself can write forever and I will read every word. Over and over! Diana Gabaldon is my favorite author of all time.

If you are hooked on the OUTLANDER T.V. series on the STARZ Channel, you'll probably enjoy this comprehensive guide. Diana Gabaldon provides a lot of information and resources so that one can follow up on specific interests and topics. The presentation on STARZ, all the books in the series, and then this OUTLANDISH COMPANION book will give you the complete experience until you can get to the Highlands. Don't get too close to those mystical stones, though . . . P.S. If you weren't a single-malt Scotch enthusiast before, you might just be after this... P.P.S. Buidheachas, mo charaid!

Not quite what I expected - the book is not on a nice slick vellum and is on a thick ivory paper. I would have preferred colored slick pages myself and perhaps a bit more true history. She is a prolific writer and does an outstanding descriptive job. Although she states she does not curse.... I still do NOT care for the cursing in the books whether it is 'historical' or not. I don't feel that it is necessary.

This is such a great idea & very user friendly. Since Diana Gabaldon writes such complex stories, it's so very helpful in going back to look up details from previous books that come up again in future books. (Lots of names, dates and places) It also has great insights into her thought processes in creating her book titles and her main characters. I cannot wait until she finishes The Outlandish Companion pt 2.

This has become my all time favorite series of books. I've never had such emotional reactions to characters as I've had in this series. I couldn't put the books down. Love, love, love this series of books. You won't go wrong in getting them.

I love Diana Gabaldon books. I have read everything she has put in print that I can get my hands on. I would definitely recommend this book for anyone who has enjoyed her Outlander series. It has a lot of really interesting stuff in there as well as VERY condensed versions of each of her Outlander books. If it has been a while since you have read them this book will refresh your memory.

This is a reference book for diehard fans of the "Outlander" series by Diana Gabaldon. If you don't fall into that category, don't buy the book. While some choose to read all the Outlander books at one time--that is, one quickly followed by the next--I have chosen to read one a year. It's easy to forget the many details in the previous book in the series, so a refresher is helpful. That's exactly what this book provides (and a lot more). Gabaldon has written a detailed account of the first four books in the series. So before I started to read "Dragonfly in Amber," the second book, I first read the chapter on "Outlander." And then I repeated that for each of the others. Highly valuable! In addition, the book contains a detailed list of all the characters--from major to minor--that appear in any of the first four books, as well as other goodies: an astrological chart for Jamie and Claire, genealogical histories for the major cast of characters and an explanation of Gabaldon's version of time travel, sketches of Claire's two wedding bands and LOTS more. Bonus: Diana Gabaldon is and has been an avid member of the Literary Forum on CompuServe, now known as the Books and Writers Community. I have worked for CompuServe since 1982, and it's a thrill to see how effectively she uses the forum to enhance her writing and to help other writers.

Gave me all the background information I expected. Love it. Can go back to it again and again.

This book helps put all of the marvelous characters together in an easy to use edition.

Great

This book is shock full of information of all kinds. I always have it beside me while reading the books. There are sections that: remind you who all the diverse characters are; a dictionary of Gaelic words and phrases; a long synopsis of each book; interviews with the author; ideas regarding doing research and facts having to do with plants, herbs and medicine. I would have hated to have gotten the book only AFTER I had finished the series.

Diana Gabaldon explained how she goes about writing her books with supporting materials like detailed synopes, commentaries, glossaries bibliographies and genealogies. Well written. Recommended.

Fun books -- one for the first four volumes and one for the second.. "Revised'? One wonders how they started out. They really go along well with the books, and one can learn so much from them.

ok

I have always loved Diana Gabaldon's books, after reading all seven of her books, I like to refer back to a specific event. This companion book allows me to do that without trying to figure out which book. It also has a list of ALL the characters from her book. Very useful if you forget a certain event and need to reread it however, it only refers to the first three books. Can not wait until companion book #2 comes out.

Can you see the smile on my face. This is a great book. I've not read all the books yet, so there are sections that I am avoiding. I really enjoyed reading about her research and all the odd bits and pieces, makes it interesting as you're reading the books and you can say - well, I know where that came from. I love this book. It's great.

Prompt shipping, Great companion for the Outlander series

Again Diana has outdone herself! Although I am just barely into it, the joy of opening it again and again will be great! It is like sitting down for coffee with an old friend and each time you learn just a little bit more. I am one of the lucky ones, in May 2012 I began the Outlander series, so I did not have to wait between the writings, except now....... #8..... Waiting..

Every bit of the Outlander saga, and it’s spin-off novels and novellas is awesome. The “Companion” helps you keep it all straight!

Diana Gabaldon is without any doubt the most glorious wordsmith in history. No other author has reeled me into such a magnificent literary adventure. Who else has taken the time to give such detail & background to a saga?

If you're an Outlander fan, you want to gobble up all the juicy tidbits you can get from the author. This book is a virtual feast of background information, everything you wanted to know and then some.

This book provides a better understanding of the first 4 books in the Outlander series. It includes a summary of the first 4 and a list of all the characters with an explanation of who they are. That alone is worth the price. She also includes explanations about how and why she wrote the books, how she developed the characters and stories about amazing coincidences with the real world. And Maps! Finally you can see where Wentworth prison is in relation to Lallybroch. If you are reading the Outlander Series, you will be glad to have this as an aid. Recommend: Open it after the first 3 books. Otherwise, it can be a spoiler! She also includes personal information about herself and her life as an author. It helps to understand why we have to wait 3 years between her wonderful books.

This is a great book for those times you remember there was something in one of the books in the series but can't remember which book or where. I use it more like a reference book than anything but I can see someone who just wants to get the gist of the series reading it and being satisfied (although I couldn't because the story has so many twists, turns, characters, etc).

Thanks to the series Outlander on Starz, I'm rereading all Diana's books thus far, which has to include the updated Companion Part1. I feel in love with Scotland and traveled there for the first time due totally to Diana's books. It's where I leave my heart and soul each time I'm able to get there!

Love it! Love everything "Outlander!" Got this book from the Library and noticed that the price was $44...got it via Amazon for $22!

Great Companion to the Outlander series. Facts and synopsis. Easy to read and understand. Gives you a more in-depth view of how Diana Gabaldon's mind works.

I am a huge Diana Gabaldon fan and I enjoyed reading about her writing process, inspiration and research techniques. However, I could have completely skipped the huge section on horoscopes.

I love, love,love this! Of course I love all of Diana's books! It's wonderful to be able to look at the geanology charts and maps. Also to be able to reread about the first 4 books without having to sit down and reread the entire books if you don't have time.

Having read the complete Outlander series of books, I have been looking forward to this book! It makes a great resource for information on all things Outlander (understand the book summaries only cover the first 4 books, the other 4 books are in Volume Two). But, there is so much more included in this book beyond the summaries. I love the glossary for the terms used in the books! At some point, I hope not to have to look up the words because I will have learned their meaning. This book is not necessarily made to be read front to back, but to be able to pop into a section as your interests in a certain subject show up. I am enjoying it thoroughly, even though I have not made much of a dent in the book. Thank you Diana Gabaldon for expanding on the Outlander World!

Great long awaited book! Great Companion to the Outlander Series!

Please note.. this is not a novel. It is companion book that gives background and information about each novel. Great to have if you are an Outlander fan!

Purchased this because I have read all eight books in the Outlander series and like all readers had a few questions for the author. This is a great companion for the books. I have enjoyed reading about how Diana Gabaldon started writing, the way she writes and does her research. Lots of fun info also. Love the list of music to listen to while reading the series.

T-:¦:-E-:¦:-R-:¦:-I-:¦:-F-:¦:-F-:¦:-I-:¦:-C

I'm wondering why it has a lot of blank pages.

New things to learn on every page. Lots of a-ha moments to help you understand the Outlander universe.

Great resource for fans. Covers the first few books.

Only Ms. Gabaldon's books could be so complicated as to require not just one but two volumes to explain the story.

highly recamend

Love the background information.

Wonderful! Now I can just read, instead of trying to keep up my own data base of all the characters/ locations. DG is such a meticulous researcher, you just know this character/ place will show up again!

This book is a great Companion to the early books in the Outlander series. Answers a lot of questions and puts things into perspective. Family ties are fully explored, even recipes for food mentioned in the original books. This edition has been updated and published since the TV series started so includes some wonderful photos from the appropriate episodes.

LOVE everything Outlander by Mrs. Gabaldon

I gave this book to my wife for an anniversary present and she squealed she was so excited. She loves the refresher it gave her about the books, the genealogy and building of the characters, the history of the Highlanders. She told me I was a great husband!

A lot of info, and extra explaining to do with the first 4 books. A very interesting thing to read if you love Outlander as much as I do.

good book good series fast delivery

Of course I had to get this, love DG, she's an awesome author

This is such a great book to have if you are reading the Outlander series. It's nice to be able to go back & look things up that you may forget about. I also like reading about Diana Gabaldon's thinking behind all of the books. I can't wait for the 2nd Outlandish Companion to come out.

As an obsessed fan, this book is essential to Go back and use as a reference or "refresher" . I just finished reading her last book (MOBY) and am now on the lord John series. It's so nice to go back and get a quick " fix" with this companion!! Thankyou Diana!

While waiting for book #8 to come out, I decided to refresh myself on the 1st four books in the series. The abbreviated version and review of the cast of characters was a huge help. I am still inclined to go back and re-read the earliest books; however, I'm not sure I can take the time! So many books... so little time! :)

If you are a fan of DIana Gabaldon's "Outlander" series of books, this and it's second volume mate are for you. This one covers books 1-4 with painstaking completeness in terms of anything you ever wanted to know about the characters, the Gaelic language, the times in which the stories take place and any number of other insightful notes and descriptions about all things Outlander. It is a coffe table book designed to be picked up and thumbed through, but one word of advice -- don't do that until you have finished books 1-4 because there are potential spoilers in there. Still, recommended highly to all Outlander fans.

I love having the Companion for many reasons. First of all it's nice to have the Gaelic translations readily available. I also like that Gabaldon provides a quick review of her first four books for reference while reading the others. My only complaint is that because the Companion was released early in the series, it doesn't help for any of the later books. I still love having it and it is definitely worth the money!

This is a wonderful book to have for all readers of the Outlander series. It is a very helpful guide. I highly recommend it.

This book will come in handy for me as the TV show is due out next year. It's a great reference for anyone who can't keep track of all the families and associations in the Outlander series. I think it covers the first 4 books but not sure. Lots of great extra information too like Jamie and Claire's astrological charts.

Having devoured her first books about Jaime and Claire (several times each), I was desperate for more. However, this book should have been postponed until the whole series was written. I felt she would have used the time better writing the actual books, and not just creating this "filler" for her hungry fans. It IS enjoyable, and tells a lot of background about the characters, but it's not what I wanted. Plus I thought the horoscope section was pretty ridiculous - imagine creating characters then having their "palms read".

Was a gift - great photos, maps and info.

You can never go wrong knowing more about Outlander

Another terrific book by Diana G. Great insider thoughts from her writing process.

It's Diana Gabaldon, what's not to love? This is the perfect Companion Book. It has so many answers to questions that I had while reading her OUTLANDER series books. ANY OUTLANDER LOVER (reader) will LOVE this book. BUY IT. Would be a GREAT GIFT too. I can't wait for the next edition.

I bought this book (not this one, another one) for a friend, since we both love the Outlander series...been wanting to get it for myself for a while, and finally took the plunge. Love hearing DG's thoughts about her books, how she does research, etc. Great investment. I normally don't buy books, but these I will keep.

brilliant, like all her books.

This is simply a synopsis of each of the four books and behind-the-scenes of her writing. Good reference when trying to remember a particular character or place without trying to figure out which book it was to go back and find that info.

Loved the interspersed info from Diana and excerpts from the books.

PERFECT, JUST AS DESCRIBED!

Love the Maps, family history, documentation, definition of Gaelic & French & Spanish words

Really helpful as the companion for the first four books. Really helps with questions, fills in the historical blanks for non-history buffs and helps with ideas as to Diana's style. I will be getting the second companion as well.

My favorite author and my favorite series! This book is an indispensable encyclopedia of information! With 8+ books it is easy to forget characters and events, you will need this comprehensive guide to keep you au courant! The update is great!

Very good to help keep up with all the characters and plot lines.

Wonderful background of the beginning of Outlander and Diana's writing techniques. Fun walk down memory lane of the beginning of the internet! I'm glad she updated this book to include the TV series too.

I just love Diana Gabaldon and how she invites you to become part of the Outlander family. Just can't wait for the next book and the next to appear. In the meantime Outlandish Companion will keep me informed and refreshed. Keep it on the coffee table and read inbetween other books, just to keep up.

Now I could understand some of the Gaelic language in the book.

Extremely useful in keeping track of some of the minor subplots and characters. A must-have.

Diana Gabaldon explains a lot of things we do not get a chance to go through when we read the books. This book and the one she wrote before there were more books are both great to read. You get to go inside her head and get where she is writing from. A good book.

I like all the books of the series but it is hard to remember all that happens. This book is an excellent companion. I wish they would write something like this for the Game Of Thrones series.

This book is awesome! It's always fun to get inside an author's head and see just how things develop. I hope she does another for the books not included. I don't see how it could be any shorter and have all of the material. Her writing style is so entertaining and informative. I liked using it as a reference while reading the other sequels.

luv'd these

Perfect for when you want to jog your memory without having to read the whole book over. Of course there’s nothing wrong with reteading reading the books because they are fabulous.

Was good to revisit stories I had read and remember things I had forgotten.

Love the series, boy in print and on DVD. Still working my way thru this. Well worth the price.

This has really helped while watching the STARZ production. Provides a refresher on the events that are covered in the show plus filling in details that the show leaves out. Of course you must read the entire novels as well. The show barely scratches the surface.

Awesome for Outlander fans. If you've read the books it's great to dig deeper and know more. As someone who has all of the books digitally, this book in hardcover is great as a reference to look up and verify things.

I bought this for my Sister for Christmas. She is really enjoying reading about how the author began writing the series of Outlander books. I will probably get the 2nd volume for her also.

It's a reference book to be used as needed.

this book is really about the process of writing the Outlander series. Diana explains the how's and why's of some of the characters. It gives explanations that that help you understand the times and Scotland. A must have book for your collection.

Anyone who is a fan of the Outlander tv series and books will really enjoy this book. It tells a lot of insight into the charaters lives and things talked about on the tv series and in the books. A real must for any outlander fan.

I have really enjoyed this book. There are so many questions answered about how these books were written.

This book gives a great insight into Diana Gabaldon’s writing process. It also gives a synopsis of the first four Outlander novels and lists of the characters in the books. Enjoyable and enlightening reading.

This may not be as engaging as reading one of the novels, but for those of us who WANT to know the backround and really think about the plots and storylines in the book and want clarification, this is a great addition to the series. I read the Outlander for my book club and I am not an avid reader, but I could not put it down. I am halfway through the third book, and just got the companion guide this week and was thrilled. My book club just met tonight and we used the companion guide extensively.

Lots of fun to read, especially if you are interested in some of the details of Dianna's writing. If you're interested in the history behind the books as well as how Diana got some of her ideas, she lists some of her sources and answers questions that make this very educational.

Love the books, love the show, this is a waste of time

Love it!! It enhanced the books!

thank you thank you Diana ! I have been waiting for this - The cast of characters section is worth the price of the book - the rest is gravy ! Both Companions are my go to books - even had to buy the revised edition of the first one. If you are a fan - you will love them both.

I'm a huge Diana Gabaldon fan and I can't wait for the new book and the STARZ series. This is a great companion. I shouldn't complain about it being so big because there is so much information but it's huge. I have to find the time since I a re-reading the Outlander series again.