Vox Pop: International Book Festival

A blissful haven in the midst of festival frenzy, the International Book Festival takes place in the gardens at the centre of elegant Charlotte Square.

Taking time out from the hustle and bustle to enjoy some literary sparkle, here are some considered thoughts about Scotland.

Clare, Isle of Arran

"The best thing about Scotland is its energy, the energy of the people. I've moved away several times but I'm very, very happy to be back. When you're away from your own culture and people, you really appreciate it."

Emma, Edinburgh

"I'm at Edinburgh University studying biological sciences. I'll probably stay in Edinburgh once I've finished but I'm thinking about going to Italy. I'm half Italian. The people at the Book Festival are really, really nice people. I haven't had a chance to see anything yet though. I'm too busy working!"

Veena, Singapore

"Scotland is the most beautiful place that I've seen. In fact, in my old age I'd definitely like to come and settle down here if my bones allow me to take this cold! To be surrounded by such beauty – it enriches the entire mind, soul, everything."

Assem, Sudan

"I'm studying administration at Stevenson College. I started last year and finished my HNC, so I now I have to do an HND. My course has been good, very nice teachers. Probably when I finish I will go for a degree."

Mary, New Zealand

"I've been working in the UK and travelling in Europe for a couple of years. Scotland is excellent – really, really cool. I'm having heaps of fun here. I'd think about coming to work here, for sure."

Dan, England

"I reckon I'll be staying here for a while. I'm trying to get into publishing. I was thinking of heading back down south but there's a good tradition of publishing up here and hopefully it's going to get better now that Edinburgh has put in a bid in to become the first UNESCO City of Literature."

Grace, England and Scotland

"I live in Edinburgh sometimes. This morning we saw 'Dude, Where's My Teddy Bear'. It was funny. My two favourite things in Edinburgh are going to the zoo and seeing the castle."

Sue, Berwick upon Tweed

"The best thing about Scotland is the variety, probably. There's loads to do – mountains, cities, loads of communication, easy to get to. It's not as distant as people think it probably is. And Scots are much more friendly than most."

Partha, England

"I haven't been here for a long time. My last visit was in 1965. The first time I visited Edinburgh, I was very impressed. I'd like to visit a bit more often and I'd certainly like to see a bit more of Scotland. My son, Rana Mitter, is one of the authors speaking at the Book Festival tomorrow."