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Alexander McCall Smith was our Guest Editor in July 2011 - click here - to see the books that inspired his writing.
Alexander McCall Smith is one of the world’s most prolific and most popular authors. His career has been a varied one: for many years he was a professor of Medical Law and worked in universities in the United Kingdom and abroad. Then, after the publication of his highly successful No 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, which has sold over twenty-five million copies, he devoted his time to the writing of fiction and has seen his various series of books translated into forty-six languages and become bestsellers through the world. These include the Scotland Street novels, first published as a serial novel in the Scotsman newspaper, the Isabel Dalhousie novels, the von Igelfeld series, and the Corduroy Mansions series, novels which started life as a delightful (but challenging to write) cross-media serial, written on the website of the Telegraph Media Group. This series won two major cross-media awards - Association of Online Publishers Digital Publishing Award 2009 for a Cross Media Project and the New Media Age award. Alexander is also the author of collections of short stories, academic works, and over thirty books for children. He has received numerous awards for his writing, including the British Book Awards Author of the Year Award in 2004 and a CBE for service to literature in 2007. He holds honorary doctorates from nine universities in Europe and North America. In March 2011 he received an award from the President of Botswana for his services through literature to that country. Alexander McCall Smith lives in Edinburgh. He is married to a doctor and has two daughters.
Click here to read an exclusive interview with Alexander McCall Smith by Mary Hogarth.
A Lovereading guide to the works of Alexander McCall Smith...
The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency was first published in 1998 and then, suddenly, it took off in America to the extent that no less than11 reprints were required in 2003.
Since then, so prolific has been his output, and so has his popularity soared, that there was a time when the sheer multitude of McCall Smith's books led to confusion as to which book fitted into each of the various series under which he writes. One has hardly been able to keep up with the sheer abundance of books published - we reckon at least thirty in less than a decade.
Now, thankfully, things have settled down and the legions of McCall Smiths avid fans can compartmentalise his new books into the four main series under which they sit - The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency Series, The Isabel Dalhousie Novels, The 44 Scotland Street Series and The Corduroy Mansions Series with a few more on top!
There are constant features across the whole panoply of McCall Smith's output. Wry and witty observations about the day-to-day lives of normal people. An innocence and delight in the human condition. And, always, a twinkle on the eye shared by writer and reader. He is a happy writer and that makes for happy readers.
He is best known for the following 4 series of novels (they are shown below in the order they were published) :-
The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Tears of the Giraffe, Morality for Beautiful Girls, The Kalahari Typing School for Men, The Full Cupboard of Life, In the Company of Cheerful Ladies, Blue Shoes and Happiness, The Good Husband of Zebra Drive, The Miracle at Speedy Motors, Tea Time for the Traditionally Built, The Double Comfort Safari Club, The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party, The Limpopo Academy of Private Detection, The Minor Adjustment Beauty Salon, The Handsome Man's De Luxe Cafe, The Woman Who Walked in Sunshine, Precious and Grace.
Isabel Dalhousie series: The Sunday Philosophy Club,Friends, Lovers, Chocolate, The Right Attitude to Rain, The Careful Use of Compliments, The Comfort of Saturdays, The Lost Art of Gratitude, The Charming Quirks of Others, The Forgotten Affairs of Youth, The Uncommon Appeal of Clouds, The Novel Habits of Happiness.
44 Scotland Street series: 44 Scotland Street, Espresso Tales, Love Over Scotland, The World According to Bertie, The Unbearable Lightness of Scones, The Importance of Being Seven, Bertie Plays the Blues, Sunshine on Scotland Street, Bertie's Guide to Life and Mothers, The Revolving Door of Life, The Bertie Project, A Time of Love and Tartan.
Corduroy Mansions Series: Corduroy Mansions, The Dog Who Came in from the Cold, A Conspiracy of Friends.
Author Photo © Graham Clark
Gentle and pointed good humour abounds in this lovely read, Alexander McCall Smith excels in creating whimsical yet sharply observed novels with real heart. He was the winner of the Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize 2015 with Fatty O’Leary’s Dinner Party which I absolutely adored, and The Second Worst Restaurant in France certainly lived up to my expectations. Food writer Paul Stewart escapes to France to stay with his cousin Chloe in order to finish his latest book, however, located in the village is the restaurant aptly known as second worst in France. Within a few pages I had an understanding of Paul, he very simply makes himself known and acts as a perfect foil to Chloe, who on occasion rather steals the limelight! A whole host of wonderful characters enter the story as Paul’s livelihood is threatened and everything is thrown into a delightful muddle. The Second Worst Restaurant in France is a gorgeously easy read, I smiled, I laughed, and enjoyed every moment… PS I would love to see Chloe feature in her own story, what a woman!
November 2017 Book of the Month The Peter Woodhouse of the title is a dog rescued from a cruel farmer and “hidden” at an American Airforce Camp where he becomes their lucky mascot with a penchant for flying. This is 1944. Val is a land girl, Mike an American pilot. They fall in love and decide to marry but before they do Mike, the dog and a navigator are shot down over Holland. Unbeknownst to Val, who is now pregnant, they all survive. A compassionate German soldier, Ubi, helps them. The war ends, Mike, dog and navigator return to England, Ubi to Germany and we follow all their eventful and eventually linking lives. This is sensitive and gently told but now drama mounts and tragedy sets in as the years unfold with lots of surprises including bizarrely a Motodrom, until 1981. It is a stand-alone tale which the author frequently produces but this one is very different from his norm, not as light hearted and quirky as most. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
September 2017 Book of the Month A heart-warming stand-alone novel about a group of passengers on an Edinburgh to London train. They have one thing in common - they have all been in love. Poignant stories full of warmth, romance and charm. A 'Piece of Passion' from the publisher... 'McCall Smith possesses an amazing gift to be able to write about love. He does it with warmth and great perception, whilst avoiding the pitfalls of sentimentality. It takes great skill to be able to write this well, and great humanity; qualities he has in abundance.' - Neville Moir, Birlinn Ltd
August 2017 Book of the Month With customary charm and deftness, Alexander McCall Smith gives us another instalment in this popular series, now running in its twelfth season in the Scotsman, making it the longest running serial novel ever. What trials are in store for Bertie and the gang this year? The twelfth novel in the 44 Scotland Street series, the longest running serial novel in the world.
If you have been with this series from the beginning, and this is the 11th, you will be familiar with the characters who live around Scotland Street in Edinburgh. Mr McCall Smith is a natural storyteller who manages to subtly fill in the background so newcomers will soon learn about the personalities and foibles of the inhabitants and they are a fascinating collection of people. Bertie of the title is only seven but has the wisdom of Solomon and the mother from hell. The ‘Project’ of the title refers to his mother, Irene’s plan for his intense upbringing. Yoga, psychotherapy, Italian lessons are in; fun, Swiss army knives, junk food are not in! Bertie’s father, Stuart, is a kind, lovely man but completely overruled by his wife. When Stuart’s mother suspects Stuart is having an affair she is delighted, hoping he will rid himself of her truly awful daughter-in-law. As always, new characters are introduced. In this book it is Clare, a very typical, outdoor-loving, extreme-sports enthusiastic Australian. She and the narcissistic Bruce of earlier books join forces and Clare replaces the two Scandinavian au pairs of familiar Matthew and Elspeth to help with their now walking boy triplets. This is the expected delightful read and leaves one eagerly anticipating the next in the series. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Explore in ‘Chance Developments’ five charming and poignant short stories. I absolutely adore the premise for this little book and the cover just invites you in. Alexander McCall Smith has imagined a background tale to the five black and white photos that appear at the beginning of each short story. The photos are eloquent and moving, the stories delve deeply into possibilities, love and friendship, joy and melancholy. From Sister Flora to a circus performer, each story is a small snapshot of what might have been, and as I read, I found myself drawn back to the photo, to look again and ponder. Alexander McCall Smith has transformed five forgotten photos into a discovery of delight. ~ Liz Robinson May 2017 Book of the Month. Click here to read an exclusive interview with Alexander McCall Smith by Mary Hogarth. A 'Piece of Passion' from the publisher... 'If you come across an old photograph what do you think about the people staring back out at you? Maybe that they are just anonymous people from another age, as if from another planet. Or do you, like McCall Smith, hear their voices, know their names, sense their hopes and dreams and imagine how their lives might have turned out.Blessed with a wonderful, humane imagination, McCall Smith brilliantly constructs paths for these forgotten people - some joyous, others bumpy and winding, all with unexpected twists and turns. An astonishing achievement: original and moving.' ~ Neville Moir, Editor of Chance Developments
Precious and Grace is a book steeped with addictive charm, wit and intelligent sleuthing. In the heat of summer in Botswana, co-directors of the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi, find their friendship tested to the limit by a curious case. Packed with intrigue, this heartfelt tale of friendship reveals how coming to terms with the past may be the only way to face the future.
Precious and Grace is a book steeped with addictive charm, wit and intelligent sleuthing. In the heat of summer in Botswana, co-directors of the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi, find their friendship tested to the limit by a curious case. Packed with intrigue, this heartfelt tale of friendship reveals how coming to terms with the past may be the only way to face the future.
If you have been with this series from the beginning, and this is the 11th, you will be familiar with the characters who live around Scotland Street in Edinburgh. Mr McCall Smith is a natural storyteller who manages to subtly fill in the background so newcomers will soon learn about the personalities and foibles of the inhabitants and they are a fascinating collection of people. Bertie of the title is only seven but has the wisdom of Solomon and the mother from hell. The ‘Project’ of the title refers to his mother, Irene’s plan for his intense upbringing. Yoga, psychotherapy, Italian lessons are in; fun, Swiss army knives, junk food are not in! Bertie’s father, Stuart, is a kind, lovely man but completely overruled by his wife. When Stuart’s mother suspects Stuart is having an affair she is delighted, hoping he will rid himself of her truly awful daughter-in-law. As always, new characters are introduced. In this book it is Clare, a very typical, outdoor-loving, extreme-sports enthusiastic Australian. She and the narcissistic Bruce of earlier books join forces and Clare replaces the two Scandinavian au pairs of familiar Matthew and Elspeth to help with their now walking boy triplets. This is the expected delightful read and leaves one eagerly anticipating the next in the series. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
Welcome back to 44 Scotland Street and to the lives of the much loved (well, in most cases) inhabitants. ‘The Revolving Door of Life’ is the tenth novel in the series and although you really should start at the beginning, you could actually read this as a completely charming standalone novel. Should I have a favourite character, perhaps not, as all have a delicious quirk that draws me to them, however the absolutely delightful Bertie sits in a favoured spot in the back of my mind. Alexander McCall Smith has a beautifully light touch, he has the ability to open up the oddities of human behaviour without being heavy handed and harsh. It’s the small things, the little thoughts, the asides that are exquisitely described and so powerful. Amusing, eyebrow raising and full of satisfying warmth and love, this is an enchanting and joyful read. ~ Liz Robinson Click here to read an exclusive interview with Alexander McCall Smith by Mary Hogarth.
One of our Books of the Year 2016. June 2016 Book of the Month. A fabulously quirky, ‘standalone’ romance-cum-farce from this feel-good author. Abandoned by his long-time girlfriend, travel writer Paul goes to Tuscany to research his next book. Arrangements are made but upon arrival no car is available. Enter one bulldozer, a wacky scenario which results in some charming pieces. Paul enters village life and that atmosphere is vividly and warmly described. Attempting to rescue an American ‘damsel in distress’ he falls instantly in love. Then long-time girlfriend turns up and life gets complicated. Full of joy and wellbeing, of sunshine and wine this affectionate, gently tale, a love triangle, or possibly a love square as more women seem to enter Paul’s life, is a sheer delight from start to finish. Highly recommended. A 'Piece of Passion' from the publisher... 'Alexander McCall Smith is fantastic at writing about Italy: its food & wine, its music, the history, the landscape and la bella figura. Onto this beautiful canvas he’s introduced una macchina colossale– a bulldozer. Only McCall Smith has the literary dexterity to pull this off. Funny, elegant and moving – occasionally earth-moving – this book is a joy; you’ll be swept away, literally.' ~ Neville Moir, Publishing Director, Polygon
Isabel Dalhousie is one of Edinburgh's most generous (but discreet) philanthropists - but should she be more charitable? She wonders, sometimes, if she is too judgmental about her niece's amorous exploits, too sharp about her housekeeper's spiritual beliefs, too ready to bristle in battle against her enemies. As the editor of the Review of Applied Ethics, she doesn't, of course, allow herself actual enemies, but she does feel enmity - especially towards two academics who have just arrived in the city. Isabel feels they're a highly destabilizing influence; little tremors in the volcanic rock upon which an Enlightened Edinburgh perches. Equally troubling is the situation of the little boy who is convinced he had a previous life. When Isabel is called upon to help, she finds herself questioning her views on reincarnation. And the nature of grief. And - crucially - the positioning of lighthouses. The only questions Isabel doesn't have to address concern her personal life.
Explore in ‘Chance Developments’ five charming and poignant short stories. I absolutely adore the premise for this little book and the stunning hardback cover made me ooh with delight. Alexander McCall Smith has imagined a background tale to the five black and white photos that appear at the beginning of each short story. The photos are eloquent and moving, the stories delve deeply into possibilities, love and friendship, joy and melancholy. From Sister Flora to a circus performer, each story is a small snapshot of what might have been, and as I read, I found myself drawn back to the photo, to look again and ponder. Alexander McCall Smith has transformed five forgotten photos into a discovery of delight. ~ Liz Robinson Click here to read an exclusive interview with Alexander McCall Smith by Mary Hogarth. A 'Piece of Passion' from the publisher... 'If you come across an old photograph what do you think about the people staring back out at you? Maybe that they are just anonymous people from another age, as if from another planet. Or do you, like McCall Smith, hear their voices, know their names, sense their hopes and dreams and imagine how their lives might have turned out.Blessed with a wonderful, humane imagination, McCall Smith brilliantly constructs paths for these forgotten people - some joyous, others bumpy and winding, all with unexpected twists and turns. An astonishing achievement: original and moving.' ~ Neville Moir, Editor of Chance Developments
Mma Ramotswe, the proprietress of the No 1. Ladies' Detective Agency, is not one to sit about. Her busy life gives her little time for relaxation (apart from the drinking of tea, of course). Nonetheless, she is convinced by co-director Mma Makutsi to take a holiday. But Mma Ramotswe finds it impossible to resist the temptation to follow the cases taken on by Mma Makutsi, and to interfere in them - secretly, she intends ...This leads her to delve into the past of a famous man whose reputation has been called into question, and to join forces with a new assistant detective (and part-time science teacher), Mr. Polopetsi. While 'on holiday' Mma Ramotswe also manages to help a young boy named Samuel in the search for his missing mother; and then of course there is the agency's arch-enemy Violet Sephotho, scheming to set up a rival secretarial college. Lessons must be learned, whether we are willing or not, and in the end Mma Ramotswe finds that a little trust goes a long way, especially when it comes to having confidence in our dearest friends and colleagues.
Welcome back to 44 Scotland Street and to the lives of the much loved (well, in most cases) inhabitants. ‘The Revolving Door of Life’ is the tenth novel in the series and although you really should start at the beginning, you could actually read this as a completely charming standalone novel. Should I have a favourite character, perhaps not, as all have a delicious quirk that draws me to them, however the absolutely delightful Bertie sits in a favoured spot in the back of my mind. Alexander McCall Smith has a beautifully light touch, he has the ability to open up the oddities of human behaviour without being heavy handed and harsh. It’s the small things, the little thoughts, the asides that are exquisitely described and so powerful. Amusing, eyebrow raising and full of satisfying warmth and love, this is an enchanting and joyful read. ~ Liz Robinson Click here to read an exclusive interview with Alexander McCall Smith by Mary Hogarth.
Continuing the series of Jane Austen 'reboots', Alexander McCall Smith updates the story of interfering Emma . She is exactly as she is in the original, giving dinner parties and picnics, attempting matchmaking and generally meddling in other people’s affairs. It is non-taxing, pleasant, easy reading. ~ Sarah Broadhurst The titles in the Austen Project series are: Sense & Sensibility by Joanna TrollopeNorthanger Abbey by Val McDermidEmma by Alexander McCall SmithEligible by Curtis Sittenfeld
Even the arrival of her baby can't hold Mma Makutsi back from success in the workplace, and so no sooner than she becomes a full partner in the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency - in spite of Mma Ramotswe's belated claims that she is only 'an assistant full partner' - she also launches a new enterprise of her own: the Handsome Man's De Luxe Cafe. Grace Makutsi is a lady with a business plan,but who could predict temperamental chefs, drunken waiters and more? Luckily, help is at hand, from the only person in Gaborone more gently determined than Mma Makutsi ...Mma Ramotswe, of course.
Winner of the Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize 2015. A scrumptious, joyous read, stuffed full of sharp wit, laugh out loud frolics and gentle soothing compassion. Fatty and his loving, loyal saint of a wife Betty leave the comforts of home for a holiday to Ireland in 1979. A number of lamentable and often laughable events befall Fatty and because she is at his side, Betty too. The author as well as pointing out the ridiculous, also allows us to see Fatty from Betty’s eyes and therefore opens ours. Completely charming, this is a little gem of a book and an absolute pleasure to read. ~ Liz Robinson
Clover (real name Sally) meets James in primary school. She is six years old. By the time she is 13 she realises she is truly in love with James but boarding school, university, gap year and time leave their paths crossing but not lying parallel for long. It takes them twenty years to bring their love to fruition. Aaah. Sensitively written with lovely rounded characters, this is an absolute gem but his Botswana and Scotland Street series are better.
November 2014 Book of the Month. This is a strange series where famous authors have been asked to give a modern version of Austen’s classics so Joanna Trollope did Pride and Prejudice, Val McDermid Northanger Abbey and now Alexander McCall Smith does interfering Emma. She is exactly as she is in the original, giving dinner parties and picnics, attempting matchmaking and generally meddling in other people’s affairs. It is non-taxing, pleasant, easy reading which I believe works so much better in the original. The third in The Austen project, a reworking of Emma written by Alexander McCall Smith, is published in November 2014. The first two in this project are already published and include Sense and Sensibility by Joanna Trollope and Northanger Abbey by Val McDermid. A reworking of Pride and Prejudice by Curtis Sittenfeld is scheduled for 2015.
Even the arrival of her baby can't hold Mma Makutsi back from success in the workplace, and so no sooner than she becomes a full partner in the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency - in spite of Mma Ramotswe's belated claims that she is only 'an assistant full partner' - she also launches a new enterprise of her own: the Handsome Man's De Luxe Cafe. Grace Makutsi is a lady with a business plan, but who could predict temperamental chefs, drunken waiters and more? Luckily, help is at hand, from the only person in Gaborone more gently determined than Mma Makutsi ...Mma Ramotswe, of course.
Winner of the Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize 2015. One of our Books of the Year 2014. A scrumptious, joyous read, stuffed full of sharp wit, laugh out loud frolics and gentle soothing compassion. Fatty and his loving, loyal saint of a wife Betty leave the comforts of home for a holiday to Ireland in 1979. A number of lamentable and often laughable events befall Fatty and because she is at his side, Betty too. The author as well as pointing out the ridiculous, also allows us to see Fatty from Betty’s eyes and therefore opens ours. Completely charming, this is a little gem of a book and an absolute pleasure to read. ~ Liz Robinson September 2014 Book of the Month. The third in The Austen project, a reworking of Emma written by Alexander McCall Smith, is published in November 2014. The first two in this project are already published and include Sense and Sensibility by Joanna Trollope and Northanger Abbey by Val McDermid. A reworking of Pride and Prejudice by Curtis Sittenfeld is scheduled for 2015.
As summer blooms in Edinburgh's gardens and Bertie Pollock's birthday appears on the horizon, all at 44 Scotland Street is not cake and sunshine. Newlywed Angus Lordie has been booked by his bride into what he must not call the loony bin; Bruce's first encounter with hot wax brings more anguish than he bargained for; and Bertie's birthday dreams of scout camp and a penknife look set to be replaced by a game of Royal Weddings and a gender-neutral doll. But fate, an amorous Bedouin and the Dubai Tourist Authority conspire to transport Bertie's mother Irene to a warmer - if not a better - place, and once again in Scotland Street the triumph of human kindness over adversity gives cause for celebration.
Not only is Mr J. L. B. Matekoni attempting to reform himself into a modern husband, but after her marriage to Phuti Radiphuti, Mma Ramotswe's challenging but irreplaceable associate Mma Makutsi has joyful news. With the arrival of an heir to the Double Comfort furniture empire and Mma Makutsi busy with motherhood, cobras and a senior aunt, Mma Ramotswe must grapple alone with tea-making, detective work and a new uncertainty. Disturbing developments over the will of a local dignitary, Edgar Molapo, point to fraud and a shocking family secret, while tracing the source of a smear campaign against the Minor Adjustment Beauty Salon, in which notorious troublemaker Violet Sephotho may or not have a hand, proves to require a keen eye and an open mind. But the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency is resilient and adaptable, and change brings salutary lessons: that our enemies are not always obvious, that a snake under the bed may be an ally, and that a mother's love conquers all.
As Botswana awaits the familiar blessing of the rains and the resumption of the eternal cycle, seismic upheaval is taking place at the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. Not only is Mr J. L. B. Matekoni attempting to reform himself into a modern husband, but after her marriage to Phuti Radiphuti, Mma Ramotswe's challenging but irreplaceable associate Mma Makutsi has joyful news. With the arrival of an heir to the Double Comfort furniture empire and Mma Makutsi busy with motherhood, cobras and a senior aunt, Mma Ramotswe must grapple alone with tea-making, detective work and a new uncertainty. Disturbing developments over the will of a local dignitary, Edgar Molapo, point to fraud and a shocking family secret, while tracing the source of a smear campaign against the Minor Adjustment Beauty Salon, in which notorious troublemaker Violet Sephotho may or not have a hand, proves to require a keen eye and an open mind. But the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency is resilient and adaptable, and change brings salutary lessons: that our enemies are not always obvious, that a snake under the bed may be an ally, and that a mother's love conquers all.
February 2014 Book of the Month. Clover (real name Sally) meets James in primary school. She is six years old. By the time she is 13 she realises she is truly in love with James but boarding school, university, gap year and time leave their paths crossing but not lying parallel for long. It takes them twenty years to bring their love to fruition. Aaah. Sensitively written with lovely rounded characters, this is an absolute gem but his Botswana and Scotland Street series are better.
A heart-warming stand-alone novel about a group of passengers on an Edinburgh to London train. They have one thing in common - they have all been in love. Poignant stories full of warmth, romance and charm. A 'Piece of Passion' from the publisher... 'McCall Smith possesses an amazing gift to be able to write about love. He does it with warmth and great perception, whilst avoiding the pitfalls of sentimentality. It takes great skill to be able to write this well, and great humanity; qualities he has in abundance.' - Neville Moir, Birlinn Ltd
As a mother, wife, employer and editor of the Review of Applied Ethics, Isabel Dalhousie is aware that to be human is to be responsible. So when a neighbour brings her a new and potentially dangerous puzzle to solve, once again Isabel feels she has no option but to shoulder the burden. A masterpiece painting has been stolen from Duncan Munrowe, old-fashioned philanthropist, father to two discontented children, and a very wealthy man. As Isabel enters into negotiations with the shadowy figures who are in search of a ransom, a case where heroes and villains should be clearly defined turns murky: the list of those who desire the painting - or the money - lengthens, and hasty judgement must be avoided at all cost.
Gently satirical and wonderfully perceptive, we are back for a 9th instalment in the eccentric lives of the residents of 44 Scotland Street, including the remarkably precocious six-year-old Bertie - whose seventh birthday is looming. The characters are the strength of this series where not much of import happens but it’s easy to get totally hooked. A 'Piece of Passion' from the publisher... 'Writing a daily novel is not easy, so to do so for ten years is small wonder. What I find so amazing about the 44 Scotland Street series is that McCall Smith continues to be so inventive, so funny and observant of modern mores, and he finds so many imaginative storylines. It’s a constant joy to read and in the soon-to-be seven-year-old Bertie he has created a truly original and endearing character in modern literature. Pure genius.' - Neville Moir, Director of Polygon Publishing
The second in his new dectective series 'The Sunday Philosophy Club' based in Scotland starring amateur sleuth Isabel Dalhousie. We love the wit and wisdom and think it’s utterly charming.
Personally I prefer Precious Ramotswe of his Botswana novels to Isabel Dalousie, the amateur sleuth featured here, but I do remember it took me more than one book to be totally enchanted by her so I know Isabel will grow on me. And I also know I enjoy the African setting more than the more sombre Edinburgh one of this series. But for all that, I can’t resist this author, the wit and wisdom is here and Isabel’s moral ground similar to Precious as she too tackles the mysteries of life. It’s utterly charming. She is expected in a television series in the autumn which I am much looking forward to.Comparisons: Agatha Christie, P G Wodehouse, Robert Goddard.Similar this month: Peter Robinson, Ben Sherwood.
November 2012 Book of the Month. Linking a group of passengers on a Edinburgh to London train, this is an exquisitely produced pocket-sized edition of his latest book and it’s a perfect gift or stocking filler. Four passengers meet on a train and exchange stories of love and railways. Poignant stories full of warmth, romance and charm.
Life is so unfair, and it sends many things to try Professor Dr Moritz-Maria von Igelfeld, author of Portuguese Irregular Verbs and pillar of the Institute of Romance Philology in the proud Bavarian city of Regensburg. There is the undeserved rise of his rival (and owner of a one-legged dachshund), Detlev Amadeus Unterholzer; the interminable ramblings of the librarian, Herr Huber; and the condescension of his colleagues with regard to his unmarried state. But when his friend Ophelia Prinzel takes it upon herself to match-make, and duly produces a cheerful heiress with her own Schloss, it appears that the professor's true worth is about to be recognised. Maddening, idiotic and hugely entertaining, von Igelfeld is an inspired comic creation.
Alexander McCall Smith published The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency in 1998 and then, suddenly, it took off in America to the extent that no less than 11 reprints were required in 2003. Since then, so prolific has been his output, and so has his popularity soared, that there was a time when the sheer multitude of McCall Smith's books led to confusion as to which book fitted into each of the various series under which he writes. One has hardly been able to keep up with the sheer abundance of books published - we reckon at least thirty in less than a decade. Now, thankfully, things have settled down and the legions of McCall Smiths avid fans can compartmentalise his new books into the four main series under which they sit - The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency Series, The Isabel Dalhousie Novels, The 44 Scotland Street Series and The Corduroy Mansions Series with a few more on top!There are constant features across the whole panoply of McCall Smith's output. Wry and witty observations about the day-to-day lives of normal people. An innocence and delight in the human condition. And, always, a twinkle on the eye shared by writer and reader. He is a happy writer and that makes for happy readers. 'The Forgotten Affairs of Youth' is the eighth of the Isabel Dalhousie series. Isabel, still a lovable combination of intriguing philosopher and amateur sleuth, faces another delightful adventure in her eventful little life. But, as in all McCall Smith's books, her life is not 'little' at all. The issues she faces and emotions she feels are universal. Another lovely book for us all to enjoy.
This is the eighth of the hugely successful 44 Scotland Street series from one of the world’s best-loved authors. In this instalment we have an unprepared groom, a double dose of narcissism, an unlikely internet sensation and boys (and dogs) hatching escape plans; all delivered with customary charm and deftness by the author. Regardless of the weather this is a book that will bring everyone who reads it some sunshine this Summer.
The third novel in McCall's acclaimed series about the colourful inhabitants of Corduroy Mansions, Pimlico. This installment follows the adventures of Oedipus Snark, the nasty Liberal Democrat and his mother Berthea who is writing an unauthorised biography of him, and a vegetarian dog called Freddie de la Hay.
While investigating unpleasant occurrences on a southern cattle-post, Mma Ramotswe, always on the side of the weak against the strong, has reason to reflect on Rule No.3 of The Principles of Private Detection: never lie to the client. Apprentice mechanic Charlie seems to be avoiding certain important responsibilities. And as Mma Makutsi's big day approaches, her nemesis Violet Sephotho is casting her net wider: by standing for election which could spell trouble for the entire nation. But as friends and family gather under starry African night skies, it turns out that even the most perplexing of apparitions - and the most shocking of crimes - may yield to rational explanation. And, of course, to Mma Ramotswe's inimitable way with love, intuition and redbush tea.
A World Book Day 2012 Quick Read. With his trademark gift for storytelling, international bestselling author Alexander McCall Smith brings us five tales of love, heartbreak, hope and the cleverness of ladies.
Life is so unfair, and it sends many things to try Professor Dr Moritz-Maria von Igelfeld, author of Portuguese Irregular Verbs and pillar of the Institute of Romance Philology in the proud Bavarian city of Regensburg. There is the undeserved rise of his rival (and owner of a one-legged dachshund), Detlev Amadeus Unterholzer; the interminable ramblings of the librarian, Herr Huber; and the condescension of his colleagues with regard to his unmarried state. But when his friend Ophelia Prinzel takes it upon herself to match-make, and duly produces a cheerful heiress with her own Schloss, it appears that the professor's true worth is about to be recognised. Maddening, idiotic and hugely entertaining, von Igelfeld is an inspired comic creation.
August 2011 Book of the Month. The story of Bertie and his dysfunctional family at 44 Scotland Street continues in this seventh instalment alongside the familiar cast of favourites - Big Lou, Domenica, Angus Lordie, Cyril and others - in their daily pursuit of a little happiness but domestic bliss seems in short supply. Alexander McCall Smith published The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency in 1998 and then, suddenly, it took off in America to the extent that no less than11 reprints were required in 2003. Since then, so prolific has been his output, and so has his popularity soared, that there was a time when the sheer multitude of McCall Smith's books led to confusion as to which book fitted into each of the various series under which he writes. One has hardly been able to keep up with the sheer abundance of books published - we reckon at least thirty in less than a decade. Now, thankfully, things have settled down and the legions of McCall Smiths avid fans can compartmentalise his new books into the four main series under which they sit - The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency Series, The Isabel Dalhousie Novels, The 44 Scotland Street Series and The Corduroy Mansions Series with a few more on top!There are constant features across the whole panoply of McCall Smith's output. Wry and witty observations about the day-to-day lives of normal people. An innocence and delight in the human condition. And, always, a twinkle on the eye shared by writer and reader. He is a happy writer and that makes for happy readers. 'Bertie Plays the Blues' follows 'The Importance of Being Seven' as the seventh 44 Scotland Street novel. Set in Edinburgh, of course, the old familiar characters are there and McCall Smith is still on sparkling form. Bertie puts himself up for adoption on eBay. This short, eight-word sentence captures the unique McCall Smith sense of fun. You won't be disappointed.
If you're a fan of Alexander McCall Smith's No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series or know someone who is then do take a look at this delightful and enchanting children's tale telling how the young Precious Ramotswe became the No. 1 Detective she is today. Well before Precious Ramotswe founded her Number One Ladies' Detective Agency, as an eight-year-old girl she was already solving mysteries. Here we find out just who has been stealing her schoolfriends' snacks and how the young Precious became the crafty and intuitive private investigator we all know and love as she solves her first case! Kids aged 8 to 108 will love it!
The sixth volume of Alexander McCall Smith's wonderful serial novels set in Edinburgh's New Town. Warm-hearted, wise and very funny, The Importance of Being Seven brings us a fresh and delightful set of insights into philosophy and fraternity among Edinburgh's most loveable residents.
The Charming Quirks of Others is the latest installment in Alexander McCall Smith’s Isobel Dalhousie series, which sees the Scottish sleuth becoming entangled in an investigation at a local boarding school -- out now in paperback.
May 2011 Book of the Month. The third novel in McCall's acclaimed series about the colourful inhabitants of Corduroy Mansions, Pimlico. This installment follows the adventures of Oedipus Snark, the nasty Liberal Democrat and his mother Berthea who is writing an unauthorised biography of him, and a vegetarian dog called Freddie de la Hay. Corduroy Mansions Series:1. Corduroy Mansions2. The Dog Who Came in from the Cold 3. A Conspiracy of Friends
Second novel in the new London-based series from Alexander McCall Smith, comparable in warmth and humour to 44 Scotland Street. Corduroy Mansions Series:1. Corduroy Mansions2. The Dog Who Came in from the Cold 3. A Conspiracy of Friends
The 11th in the No1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series sees sleuth Precious Ramotswe and her assistant Grace Makutsi on the trail of a mystery safari guide who has been named in the will of a generous benefactor. McCall Smith’s Botswana adventures have sold more than 13 million copies world wide and this is another warm, funny and engaging instalment. Expect gentle humour, eccentric, loveable characters and pearls of homespun wisdom from one of our favourite storytellers.
More sleuthing from the wonderful Isabel Dalhousie. As in all his novels McCall Smith brings together a great cast of characters and our leading lady is always charming and inquisitive as she tries to crack another mystery. Please note that this title is also available in a Large Print edition. Click here to find out more.
Number six in the Scotland Street Series and still has all the McCall Smith charm and ease. A great series.
His fans will love another wittily observed gem of a book. With McCall Smith, the places change – you could be in Botswana or Scotland or, now, London - but the sheer humanity is the same. Here, a new group of interesting and disparate characters face the daily trials and tribulations of life that affect us all, wherever we may be. Corduroy Mansions Series:1. Corduroy Mansions2. The Dog Who Came in from the Cold 3. A Conspiracy of Friends
Featured on The Book Show on Sky Arts on 4 June 2010. May 2010 Book of the Month. More stories from the residents of the crumbling apartment block in Pimlico. The second in a great new series from the author of the No1 Ladies Detective Agency. Corduroy Mansions Series: 1. Corduroy Mansions 2. The Dog Who Came in from the Cold
Alexander McCall Smith is shortlisted for the Specsavers ITV3 Crime Thriller Bestseller Dagger 2009. The tenth in Mma Ramotswe’s No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, her fans will know just what to expect but at the same time remain delightfully enthralled by a new set of Precious adventures. McCall Smith is consistent and reliable in his witty observations of day-to-day life. However, can Mma Ramotswe equally rely on her trusty white van? Perhaps if she walked more, then she would be healthier and her van would last longer. Or would it? Despite being a series of ‘Detective’ novels, if you are a reader who prefers kindness and comfort to killing and cruelty, then these are the books for you and you will discover why they have been a phenomenal success around the world.
The sixth installment in the best-selling chronicles of the irrepressibly curious Isabel Dalhousie. More sleuthing from the wonderful Isabel Dalhousie. As in all his novels McCall Smith brings together a great cast of characters and our leading lady is always charming and inquisitive as she tries to crack another mystery. A message from Joanna Lumley: “Anything that makes reading easier is to be applauded – a bright light, a quiet room, large clear print…what could be more enticing. Focus has all my support." Joanna Lumley
His fans will love another wittily observed gem of a book. With McCall Smith, the places change – you could be in Botswana or Scotland or, now, London - but the sheer humanity is the same. Here, a new group of interesting and disparate characters face the daily trials and tribulations of life that affect us all, wherever we may be.
A stand alone novel, this is a gentle tale of a woman relocating to the Suffolk countryside just before the Second World War. La (shot for Lavender) decides to start up an orchestra with the locals and members from the nearby RAF base. The story revolves around La’s relationships with the locals, with the local farmer she works for and her love interest, grounded Polish pilot Feliks. This reads like a book written in another era, no doubt the tone McCall Smith was going for. Very enjoyable.
His fans will love another wittily observed gem of a book. With McCall Smith, the places change – you could be in Botswana or Scotland or, now, London - but the sheer humanity is the same. Here, a new group of interesting and disparate characters face the daily trials and tribulations of life that affect us all, wherever we may be.
The fifth volume of the Scotland Street series is here with the wonderful cast of characters that reside there. These are a joy to read and plenty of different story lines to keep the action going and the reader satisfied. Lovely stuff.
Winner of the Best Fiction AudioBook of 2009. The tenth in Mma Ramotswe’s No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, her fans will know just what to expect but at the same time remain delightfully enthralled by a new set of Precious adventures. McCall Smith is consistent and reliable in his witty observations of day-to-day life. However, can Mma Ramotswe equally rely on her trusty white van? Perhaps if she walked more, then she would be healthier and her van would last longer. Or would it?Despite being a series of ‘Detective’ novels, if you are a reader who prefers kindness and comfort to killing and cruelty, then these are the books for you and you will discover why they have been a phenomenal success around the world. The audio edition of the collected first season of Alexander McCall Smith's Tea Time for the Traditionally Built has been named the Best Fiction AudioBook of 2009.The competition was decided by public vote via www.completelynovel.com. From the press release announcing the winners:"Twenty titles were selected from over one hundred titles entered by audio publishers. The judging panel was formed of key figures from audio publishing, trade press and national media including The Times' audiobook reviewer Christina Hardyment and prolific audio abridger Kati Nicholl. The panel's selections were based on excellence in several criteria: quality of literary content, abridgement, reading, production value and sound quality."
Another wonderful chapter (the 9th in the series) in the colourful lives of these down-to-earth people and their moralistic way of life. There are crimes to solve, a lady’s relatives to find but the real charm of this series is the continuing relationship of the main characters. In this one we learn a lot more about the fostered children, Motholeli and Puso. It’s another lovely mix of gentle philosophy and life-affirming commentary. A joy to read.
Whenever I read a McCall Smith No.1 Ladies€™ Detective Agency title I can always smell the smells and visualize the situations he's describing so clearly, for his writing is so acute and precise and his love for the country and its people shine through. Apart from having a cracking title for the book this latest feast is every bit as good as his earlier ones in the series. It'€™s a real-feel good novel with edge.
Whenever I read a McCall Smith No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency title I can always smell the smells and visualize the situations he’s describing so clearly, for his writing is so acute and precise and his love for the country and its people shine through. Apart from having a cracking title for the book this latest feast is every bit as good as his earlier ones in the series. It’s a real-feel good novel with edge.Read by Adjoa AndohAbridged on 5 CDsRunning time approx 6 hours
I enjoyed this book. The author’s prose is, as usual, simple, almost naïve in style but as the story of the Eros figure of Angus progresses, and the five modern but very different fables interwoven into his quest for love emerge, we are drawn into a world of dreams where the characters’ hopes and fears in life are gently explored. There is the newly wed wife who is visited by Angus while she dozes awaiting her husband’s return from a late night stroll, the brothers from the remote fishing village whose filial love is interrupted by the elder’s departure for Canada, the boy who searches for the identity of his real father, the young man who tends lovingly the pigs used for bio-research, the betrayed wife who is helped by her psychotherapist to a reconciliation with her husband. Each story has a link to Angus, the dream-maker and so reality and dreams are woven together in this mesmerizing re-telling of the Celtic myth of Angus. A gentle and enriching read.
McCall Smith’s writing is certainly addictive. Read one and you want to read more. Love Over Scotland is no different in that with his usual skill and charm he has pulled together a handful of quirky and brilliantly observed characters into a touching storyline with such ease. Serious issues are from time to time integrated into the storyline and yet with such lightness of touch the message is almost subliminal. Reading a McCall Smith is a bit like curling up with a really good friend. Just add a cup of cocoa and your set for the evening ahead. Pure joy.
Fans of the The Ladies' No. 1 Detective Agency will revel in the tricky new challenges the traditionally built Mma Ramotswe faces with her unique combination of common sense and kindness. Those who are yet to discover McCall Smith's witty and delightful writing will find that Botswana provides an evocative background for all the great problems of the world: justice, respect, whistle-blowing, feminism, forgiveness, friendship - and, of course, how to deal with an angry ostrich. Oh, and does money buy you happiness? Yes, if you use it to buy Blue Shoes (but perhaps not if you are Mma Makutsi, assistant to, though less traditionally built than, Mma Ramotswe herself). Why can't all the world be like this?
Fans of the The Ladies' No. 1 Detective Agency will revel in the tricky new challenges the traditionally built Mma Ramotswe faces with her unique combination of common sense and kindness. Those who are yet to discover McCall Smith's witty and delightful writing will find that Botswana provides an evocative background for all the great problems of the world: justice, respect, whistle-blowing, feminism, forgiveness, friendship - and, of course, how to deal with an angry ostrich. Oh, and does money buy you happiness? Yes, if you use it to buy Blue Shoes (but perhaps not if you are Mma Makutsi, assistant to, though less traditionally built than, Mma Ramotswe herself). Why can't all the world be like this?
Despite threatening to wind-up this Botswana crime series as he develops an equally intriguing Scottish heroine, Isabel Dalhousie, Precious Ramotswe is still his most endearing character and I personally love the African lore and setting that surrounds her and her astute wisdom. This is the sixth in the series and the only one in 2005, but fans rejoice, I understand he has been persuaded to write another for next year. If you don’t know the series, then do start at the beginning with The No 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, but as each tale is self-contained, you don’t have to. I would recommend him to everyone. He is different, utterly engaging, gentle and life affirming. Comparisons: none, but if you like Agatha Christie, Laurie Lee, Simon Brett.Similar this month: Gervase Phinn, Kate Long.
A 2013 World Book Night selection. This charming, light-hearted, wise tale hit the literary world in 2001 and became a word-of-mouth bestseller. If you are new to the series you really should start here to get the full background. After that you can appreciate the others in any order you like but they do follow through as Precious Ramotswe’s love/office/family and friendships develop. They are uplifting, warm and strangely compelling, a must-read for all. Comparison: Colin Cotterill (The Coroner’s Lunch), Celestine Hitiura Vaite (Frangipani), Saumya Balsare (Cambridge Curry Club).
Another seven BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramas, written and adapted by Alexander McCall Smith from his own bestselling series'Must-listen...beautifully cast, precisely timed, simply wonderful' Daily Telegraph'...will charm listeners whether they already know and love these stories or are hearing them for the first time' Audiofile MagazineA third outstanding collection of stories featuring Botswana's only female private detective agency, run by the irrepressible Precious Ramotswe. Based on the hugely popular novels and brought to life with music and full casts, these evocative productions return us to Botswana, where Precious has more mysteries to solve.In the first of these seven episodes, Mma Ramotswe helps an adopted child search for her birth family; gets embroiled in the murky world of a football cheat; faces the dangers of crocodiles, hippos and a tiny canoe in the Okovango Delta; and investigates some violent, unexplained attacks on cattle. Meanwhile, the countdown to her upcoming wedding begins...The stories included are: The Miracle at Speedy Motors, Tea Time for the Traditionally Built, The Seller of Beds, An Exceptionally Wicked Lady, Canoeing for Ladies, A Late Van Just Glimpsed and The Saturday Big Tent Wedding.
The nursery gate is a good place for parents to meet one another. As the mother of two small children, Isabel finds herself enlarging her circle of friends to include other parents. She meets Patricia, an Irishwoman, a musician and the single mother of a small boy called Basil Phelps. Isabel hears from her husband, Jamie, that this child is allegedly the unacknowledged son of a well-known Edinburgh organist, Basil Phelps. Patricia takes to Isabel, but Isabel is suspicious - there is something about Patricia that she does not quite like, but, with her usual attention to moral obligation, she does her best to be civil and supportive. That is until she sees Patricia with a mysterious, freckled man. Isabel gets it into her head that this is Patricia's lover, and that he must be the real father of young Basil. When further discoveries are made, everything is turned on its head. Despite Jamie's discouragement, Isabel decides that she is going to get to the bottom things. Yet, when the truth is finally revealed, it seems that Isabel has misjudged Patricia; in fact, she has misjudged just about everybody.
It is summer in Edinburgh and Isabel Dalhousie is once again caught between 'gossip' and significant rumour. It is none of her business that Patricia, the mother of her son Charlie's little friend Basil, is estranged from Basil's father, or that the woman has a somewhat brazen attitude to childcare. And yet, it is curious. Isabel, however, has much else on her mind as editor of the Review of Applied Ethics. Along with the work involved for its impending next issue, she really needs to get her house in order and tend to the demands of her niece, Cat. Thankfully, the arrival of Antonia, the exuberant Italian au pair, will take care of urgent chores. And the hiring of Claire, a diligent if unsettlingly beautiful new assistant at the Review, surely means that Isabel can breathe, at least a little. But her sharp observation and assured role as confidante soon have Isabel doubting all her recent decisions. What's more, her instinct to help others may have put her in real danger. In her desire to run both a smooth household and working life, has she simply created more chaos? Perhaps the quiet side of passion is, after all, the best side on which to be?
Precious Ramotswe learns valuable lessons about first impressions and forgiveness in this latest installment of the much-loved, best-selling No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. At Botswana's No 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Precious Ramotswe and Grace Makutsi are intrigued by the troubling dismissal of an employee at a thriving local business. The ladies proceed with investigations as they are inclined to do - with Mma Makutsi's customary vigour, and Mma Ramotswe's rather more subtle caution. Soon enough, interesting discoveries are made... marital subterfuge, undue influence and commercial chicanery! Clearly, there is more to this dismissal than at first imagined. While Mma Makutsi's focus, as self-appointed Principal Investigating Officer, is firmly on the case, Mma Ramotswe's attention is diverted by personal matters. Not only has her disgraced ex-husband reappeared in town, but she has stumbled on an unsettling family secret of her own - one that might threaten what she holds closest to her heart. As Precious contemplates this painful possibility, she must draw on her strength and compassion and confront The House of Unexpected Sisters. And for both Mma Makutsi and Mma Ramotswe, the wise words of their mentor Clovis Andersen - 'the needle swings in confusing ways' - have never been more prescient . . .
Here are three heartwarming books inAlexander McCall Smith's No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency Seriesnow available in a convenient ebook box set. This box set includes books 2-4 of the series: Tears of the Giraffe, Morality for Beautiful Girls, and The Kalahari Typing School for Men. Fans around the world adore the bestselling No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series and its proprietor, Precious Ramotswe, Botswana's premier lady detective. In this charming series, Mma Ramotswewith help from her loyal associate, Grace Makutsinavigates her cases and her personal life with wisdom, good humor, and the occasional cup of tea.
Start your engines and get in gear for an action-packed story from the bestselling author of The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, Alexander McCall Smith, with fun and energetic illustrations by Kate Hindley. When Max finds an old car that has his last name - Champion - on the bonnet, he learns that his grandfather used to make some of the best cars around ... and race them! That is, until his ideas book and his favourite car, Arabella, were stolen by greedy rival Mr Grabber. Can Max find a way to get back what Grandfather Gus lost? And will Arabella ever be seen again?
Recently distracted by the arrival of her and Jamie's second son, Magnus, Isabel Dalhousie - philanthropic editor of the Review of Applied Ethics - is anxious. The next issue of the Review is far from ready, her eldest, Charlie, is jealous, and their housekeeper, Grace, has an officious approach to childcare. With some relief, Isabel returns to helping out at her niece Cat's delicatessen, where surely the most taxing duty is the preparation of sandwiches. It's not long before Isabel's helpful, philosophical nature draws her into customers' problems, specifically that of ambitious, self-proclaimed matchmaker, Bea Shandon. Bea has staged a potentially dangerous liaison involving enigmatic plastic surgeon, Tony MacUspaig, who may not be quite who he claims to be - and Isabel's help is required in getting to the truth of the matter. Good-hearted Isabel proceeds with her usual thorough attention to task, and on Bea's advice talks to her friend Rob, a trustworthy regular on Bea's dinner party circuit, and known to have deep suspicions about MacUspaig. It becomes clear, however, that Rob has an agenda of his own and Isabel is now contending with that, along with a mysterious medical condition of Jamie's and some frustrating dead ends when it comes to Bea's predicament. When the truth finally reveals itself, Isabel must conclude that along with MacUspaig, Bea, Jamie - and even Cat - she herself is not immune to misunderstandings, or the neurotic fantasies that arise from keeping secrets . . .
It takes a lot to get under the skin of Cornelius 'Fatty O'Leary, but then there is a lot of skin to get under. The heroically proportioned Fatty can normally take life as it comes. Right at home in easy-going Fayetteville, Arkansas, he is happily married to his childhood sweetheart Betty, and likes nothing better than the company of good friends Tubby O'Rourke and Porky Flanagan. But when Fatty and Betty head off to Ireland on the trip of a lifetime, they find that they have left their comfort zone far behind. Calamity and mayhem ensue as one mishap after another befalls the beleaguered couple. Can Fatty's broad shoulders take the strain or will he suffer one indignity too many? Will he get his just deserts, or just dessert?
Fans around the world adore the best-selling No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series and its proprietor, Precious Ramotswe, Botswana's premier lady detective. In the first book of the bestselling series, Mma Ramotswe - with help from her loyal associate, Grace Makutsi - navigates her cases and her personal life with wisdom, good humour and the occasional cup of tea. Wayward daughters. Missing Husbands. Philandering partners. Curious conmen. If you've got a problem, and no one else can help you, then pay a visit to Precious Ramotswe, Botswana's only - and finest - female private detective. Her methods may not be conventional, and her manner not exactly Miss Marple, but she's got warmth, wit and canny intuition on her side, not to mention Mr J. L. B. Matekoni, the charming proprietor of Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors. And Precious is going to need them all as she sets out on the trail of a missing child, a case that tumbles our heroine into a hotbed of strange situations and more than a little danger . . . Delightfully different, THE NO.1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY offers a captivating glimpse of an unusual world. The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency is the 1st book in the series, but you may enjoy reading the series in any order
Ben and Fee MacTavish and the rest of the School Ship Tobermory crew head down under to take part in a tall ships race, but after a good start the Tobermory runs aground after it drops out to rescue a local boy, Kimba, stranded on the rocks. When the ship's dog Henry disappears, Kimba helps Ben, Fee and their friends find him. But as the trail leads them deeper into the Outback, they begin to realize that a missing dog is the least of their problems. Who are the mysterious couple claiming to be flying doctors, and why are they interested in an abandoned mine?
Hari is a dreamer with an unusual talent. He spends the few coins he earns washing cars on cinema trips to watch (and learn from) his beloved Bollywood films. Then one day Hari's gloriously fancy footwork is spotted by Mr Ram, a man on a mission to resolve conflicts near and far. Hari so entrances everyone with his magical dancing that soon he is travelling all over the world and his electric feet bring harmony to all who see him dance. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant or dyslexic readers aged 8+
A second collection of eight BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisations based on the popular books by Alexander McCall Smith. 'this full- cast production will charm listeners whether they already know and love these stories or are hearing them for the first time' - Audiofile Magazine 'How to Handle Men through the Application of Psychology': Precious Ramotswe sets out to release her fiance from a terrifying obligation, and a new case sparks a love quest. 'House of Hope': Precious and her assistant visit some bad girls as part of their mission to find a husband for their client, but Precious has some marriage problems of her own. 'The Return of Note': When Precious Ramotswe's ex-husband turns up to cause trouble, she finds an unlikely ally. 'The Ceremony': Precious works her way through a list of her own problems. But will the return of an old love jeopardise her romantic plans? 'There Is No Such Thing As Free Food': Precious is preoccupied both professionally and personally by the subject of food. 'The Best Profession for a Blackmailer': Mr Polopetsi, part-time mechanic and would-be assistant detective, takes on a case of his own; while Mma Makutsi finds out if blue shoes are the key to happiness. 'A Very Rude Woman': Precious faces change at the Agency, while Mr J.L.B. Matekoni meets the rudest person in all Botswana. 'Talking Shoes': A new detective takes on a case for the Agency, while Mma Ramotswe, among others, has a problem with high blood pressure. Starring Claire Benedict as Mma Ramotswe and Nadine Marshall as Mme Makutsi, these dramatisations will appeal to all fans of the engaging lady detective. Duration: 6 hrs approx.
A second collection of eight BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisations based on the popular books by Alexander McCall Smith. 'this full- cast production will charm listeners whether they already know and love these stories or are hearing them for the first time' - Audiofile Magazine'How to Handle Men through the Application of Psychology': Precious Ramotswe sets out to release her fiance from a terrifying obligation, and a new case sparks a love quest.'House of Hope': Precious and her assistant visit some bad girls as part of their mission to find a husband for their client, but Precious has some marriage problems of her own.'The Return of Note': When Precious Ramotswe's ex-husband turns up to cause trouble, she finds an unlikely ally.'The Ceremony': Precious works her way through a list of her own problems. But will the return of an old love jeopardise her romantic plans?'There Is No Such Thing As Free Food': Precious is preoccupied both professionally and personally by the subject of food.'The Best Profession for a Blackmailer': Mr Polopetsi, part-time mechanic and would-be assistant detective, takes on a case of his own; while Mma Makutsi finds out if blue shoes are the key to happiness.'A Very Rude Woman': Precious faces change at the Agency, while Mr J.L.B. Matekoni meets the rudest person in all Botswana.'Talking Shoes': A new detective takes on a case for the Agency, while Mma Ramotswe, among others, has a problem with high blood pressure.Starring Claire Benedict as Mma Ramotswe and Nadine Marshall as Mme Makutsi, these dramatisations will appeal to all fans of the engaging lady detective.
November 2017 Book of the Month The Peter Woodhouse of the title is a dog rescued from a cruel farmer and “hidden” at an American Airforce Camp where he becomes their lucky mascot with a penchant for flying. This is 1944. Val is a land girl, Mike an American pilot. They fall in love and decide to marry but before they do Mike, the dog and a navigator are shot down over Holland. Unbeknownst to Val, who is now pregnant, they all survive. A compassionate German soldier, Ubi, helps them. The war ends, Mike, dog and navigator return to England, Ubi to Germany and we follow all their eventful and eventually linking lives. This is sensitive and gently told but now drama mounts and tragedy sets in as the years unfold with lots of surprises including bizarrely a Motodrom, until 1981. It is a stand-alone tale which the author frequently produces but this one is very different from his norm, not as light hearted and quirky as most. ~ Sarah Broadhurst
'While My Italian Bulldozer certainly advocates a kind, considerate, some might even say old-fashioned approach to resolving affairs of the heart, it also succeeds in subtly, almost imperceptibly ripping up the traditional rules of the romantic comedy and creating something refreshingly original' Scotsman When writer Paul Stewart heads to the idyllic Italian town of Montalcino to finish his already late book, it seems like the perfect escape from stressful city life. Upon landing, however, things quickly take a turn for the worse when he discovers his hired car is nowhere to be found. With no record of any reservation and no other cars available it looks like Paul is stuck at the airport. That is, until an enterprising stranger offers him an unexpected alternative. While there may be no cars available there is something else on offer: a bulldozer. With little choice in the matter, Paul accepts and so begins a series of laugh out loud adventures through the Italian countryside, following in the wake of Paul and his Italian Bulldozer. A story of unexpected circumstance and lesson in making the best of what you have, My Italian Bulldozer is a warm holiday read guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Precious Ramotswe has always idolised her father, the late Obed Ramotswe. She feels that she knows all about his life - but does she? Sometimes our parents surprise us, and we discover that things were not quite what we thought them to be. And the same goes for Mma Makutsi, Mma Ramotswe's feisty assistant, who also makes certain discoveries about her own past that cause some surprise. The placid world of the No 1 Ladies' Detective Agency is further disturbed by the arrival in Gaborone of somebody whom Mma Ramotswe - and Mr J.L.B. Matekoni, for that matter - definitely do not want to see. Of course calm eventually prevails - as it always does in the timeless world of these remarkable ladies. Tea is served, and life continues.
