These, too, are at least grounded somewhat in reality, and may well finally exist in 40 or 50 years, but they almost manage to seem a bit old-fashioned compared to most of movie's newer ideas.

ENGADGET: Minority Report at 10: a look at technology from today to 2054

Now, with "Autumn in the Heavenly Kingdom, " Mr. Platt presents the first book-length foray in this direction, providing a compelling alternative account of much-studied events that feels both a bit old-fashioned (in its panoramic view of battles and leaders) yet also very much in step with recent scholarship, placing national stories into global frameworks.

WSJ: Book Review: Autumn in the Heavenly Kingdom

"I'm a litle bit old-fashioned, but I think there are plenty of candidates who are Scottish who can do the job, " said Jordan.

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