How to Raise an Elephant

The latest instalment from the beloved THE NO. 1 LADIES DETECTIVE AGENCY series

Catch up on the latest from Mma Ramotswe, Mma Makutsi and other favourites in this new instalment of Alexander McCall Smiths The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series.

As the temperature rises in Gaborone, Precious Ramotswe, founder of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency, wonders whether the heat could be the reason that business is particularly slow. Luckily, a slower pace in life is her natural preference, unlike her colleague Mma Makutsi, who is alert to every passing observation and inclined to making snap decisions. With fewer cases to handle, Precious has time to contemplate her new neighbours, a couple who, by the sounds of it, have a rather volatile relationship . . .

But then a distant cousin of Mma Ramotswes comes to the agency with a plea for help, and the ladies decide to pursue the issue together. Armed with Mma Ramotswes circumspection and Mma Makutsis sharp eye, they proceed with confidence and open hearts. What, after all, could be more straightforward than a family matter?

Meanwhile, their colleague Charlie is behaving oddly, borrowing Mma Ramotswes van and returning it in an unusual condition. Digging a little deeper, the explanation is both strange and extraordinary, and takes Charlie, along with Mma Ramotswes husband, Mr J. L. B. Matekoni, on a hair-raising night-time expedition.

In the end, Precious is reminded of the need to view a picture from every angle, to accept the imperfections in people and situations, and then find a solution - preferably over a delicious slice of her friend Mma Potokwanis fruit cake.

Irresistible
The Times

Every page contains a gem of wit and insight
Scotsman