The first chapter was slow moving, but I rushed through because I had to return the book to a friend. After the second chapter, I was hooked. I began to understand the gentle humour and the simple yet powerful joys of life, which we often forget to notice. Now I am reading the 16th book in this series!
The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency novel series by Alexander McCall Smith is delightfully different from other mystery thrillers. Mma Precious Ramotswe sets up the first detective agency run by a woman in Botswana. The mysteries here are not typical. The characters are quirky, however with strengths and flaws one can easily relate to. The cases are about problems, which disturb ordinary people like us. Mma Ramotswe uses her wit and intuition to solve them.
At the Emirates Airline Literature Festival 2015, I attended the author talk session featuring Smith. It was wonderful to hear him talk about Mma Ramotwse’s world.
I admire Mma Ramotswe’s deep ties with family and community, respect for tradition and her simple listen-to-your-heart type of wisdom. I find my usual complex trail of thoughts dissolve into a relaxing rhythm as I read.
These stories would leave one feeling truly good about life. The images of Africa’s brilliant landscape, the red bush tea and the tiny white van linger on in my mind as I eagerly await the next book!
