What do you think?
Rate this book
No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency #16
Woman Who Walked in Sunshine Signed ed
In this latest installment of the beloved and best-selling series, Mma Ramotswe must contend with her greatest challenge yet—a vacation!
Business is slow at the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, so slow in fact that for the first time in her estimable career Precious Ramotswe has reluctantly agreed to take a holiday. The promise of a week of uninterrupted peace is short-lived, however, when she meets a young boy named Samuel, a troublemaker who is himself in some trouble. Once she learns more about Samuel’s sad story, Mma Ramotswe feels compelled to step in and help him find his way out of a bad situation.
Despite this unexpected diversion, Mma Ramotswe still finds herself concerned about how the agency is faring in her absence. Her worries grow when she hears that Mma Makutsi is handling a new and rather complicated case. A well-respected Botswanan politician is up for a major public honor, and his reputation is now being called into question by his rivals. The man’s sister has contacted the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency to investigate these troubling claims, but, as in so many cases, all is not as it seems. In the end, the investigation will affect everyone at the agency and will also serve as a reminder that ordinary human failings should be treated with a large helping of charity and compassion.
Business is slow at the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, so slow in fact that for the first time in her estimable career Precious Ramotswe has reluctantly agreed to take a holiday. The promise of a week of uninterrupted peace is short-lived, however, when she meets a young boy named Samuel, a troublemaker who is himself in some trouble. Once she learns more about Samuel’s sad story, Mma Ramotswe feels compelled to step in and help him find his way out of a bad situation.
Despite this unexpected diversion, Mma Ramotswe still finds herself concerned about how the agency is faring in her absence. Her worries grow when she hears that Mma Makutsi is handling a new and rather complicated case. A well-respected Botswanan politician is up for a major public honor, and his reputation is now being called into question by his rivals. The man’s sister has contacted the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency to investigate these troubling claims, but, as in so many cases, all is not as it seems. In the end, the investigation will affect everyone at the agency and will also serve as a reminder that ordinary human failings should be treated with a large helping of charity and compassion.
Hardcover
First published October 27, 2015
781 people are currently reading
6093 people want to read
About the author
Alexander McCall Smith
660 books12.6k followersAlexander McCall Smith is the author of the international phenomenon The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, the Isabel Dalhousie Series, the Portuguese Irregular Verbs series, and the 44 Scotland Street series. He is professor emeritus of medical law at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and has served on many national and international bodies concerned with bioethics. He was born in what is now known as Zimbabwe and he was a law professor at the University of Botswana. He lives in Scotland. Visit him online at www.alexandermccallsmith.com, on Facebook, and on Twitter.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,639 reviews
December 25, 2015
I love this series. Sixteen books in and I still look forward to each new one as it comes out. Alexander McCall Smith has such a delightful view of the world and an equally delightful way of writing about it. His characters are all so entertaining that this reader anyway wants to know everything about them. Add to that the fact that I have spent some very pleasant times in Botswana and these books describe it to perfection. What more could I ask for?
November 6, 2015
A Review by Charlie (The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency's No. 1 Ladies' Man)
Dumela Mmas and Rras. Ko Ko! The latest book about me by Rra McCall Smith has just been published so now you can read all about my adventures as a liberated, modern Botswana man. You see, I am no longer an apprentice mechanic at Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors. I am a para-secretary at the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. Goodbye wrenches, hello teapots. Will that be red bush or Five Roses Tea? Nobody makes better tea than Charlie! You won't believe what I get paid to do at the agency. Mma Makutsi has decided that it is time for the boss Mma Ramotswe to take a vacation (which turns out not to be such a holiday for that white van of hers), and I get to sit at her desk sometimes while she's away. I help out on a very important case involving a big man in the government, who is late. And my true talents are put to use on a case in Lobatse, where I make enquiries while going to bars, buying drinks and talking to ladies! There's just one problem with my new job. Sometimes when I am alone in the office I think my fancy new shoes are trying to talk to me. They are saying, "Charlie, you are going to need some big prescription eyeglasses like Mma Makutsi's if all this filing doesn't let up." Ha! Let's see how Miss 97 Percent likes it when Charlie's eyeglasses shine at her! Thank you Rra McCall Smith for making me the man who walks in sunshine, at least while I am delivering the mail to the post office.
Dumela Mmas and Rras. Ko Ko! The latest book about me by Rra McCall Smith has just been published so now you can read all about my adventures as a liberated, modern Botswana man. You see, I am no longer an apprentice mechanic at Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors. I am a para-secretary at the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. Goodbye wrenches, hello teapots. Will that be red bush or Five Roses Tea? Nobody makes better tea than Charlie! You won't believe what I get paid to do at the agency. Mma Makutsi has decided that it is time for the boss Mma Ramotswe to take a vacation (which turns out not to be such a holiday for that white van of hers), and I get to sit at her desk sometimes while she's away. I help out on a very important case involving a big man in the government, who is late. And my true talents are put to use on a case in Lobatse, where I make enquiries while going to bars, buying drinks and talking to ladies! There's just one problem with my new job. Sometimes when I am alone in the office I think my fancy new shoes are trying to talk to me. They are saying, "Charlie, you are going to need some big prescription eyeglasses like Mma Makutsi's if all this filing doesn't let up." Ha! Let's see how Miss 97 Percent likes it when Charlie's eyeglasses shine at her! Thank you Rra McCall Smith for making me the man who walks in sunshine, at least while I am delivering the mail to the post office.
September 20, 2021
4 stars for another pleasant book in the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series, set in Botswana, Africa. This is book 16 in the series and I have read them in order. There are developments throughout the series, so they are best read in order, although this would work as a stand alone. This book has Grace Makutsi persuading Precious Ramotswe into taking a vacation from her duties at the agency. It is her first vacation since she founded the agency. Grace takes over in Precious' absence. A complicated case comes up and Precious is drawn back in, w/o Grace's knowledge. There are misunderstandings, but everything is resolved with a satisfactory ending. If you like cozy mysteries with no violence or profanity, then you will love this series.
Both my wife and I read this series.
Both my wife and I read this series.
November 28, 2021
In this 16th book in the 'No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency' series, set in Botswana, Mma Ramotswe is gently manipulated into taking a vacation by her assistant Mma Makutsi - who thinks Mma Ramotswe needs a little break. The book can be read as a standalone, but familiarity with the characters is a plus.
*****
Though Mma Ramotswe, owner of the detective agency, is reluctant to leave the business in the hands of Mma Makutsi - who tends to be stubborn, brash, and undiplomatic - she takes a couple of weeks off. During this time Mma Makutsi is thrilled to take over as 'Acting Director' of the agency.
Mma Ramotswe spends some time cleaning her cupboards; drinking tea at a hotel café while gossiping; and visiting a friend. The detective soon tires of being idle, however, and - in accordance with the old Botswana ways - slips back into helping people. When a spiteful young boy purposely scratches Mma Ramotswe's white van the detective learns that he's being abused by the woman he lives with and takes the matter in hand.
Soon afterwards Rra Polopetsi - a part-time chemistry teacher who temps at the detective agency - comes up with a case.
A deceased politician was to have a road named for him, but following the revelation of a secret scandal the road naming was cancelled. The politician's sister wants the detective agency to disprove the (unknown) allegations, and Acting Director Mma Makutsi gives the job to Rra Polopetsi - who doesn't have a clue how to do it.
Mma Ramotswe worries that Mma Makutsi assigned Rra Polopetsi the political scandal case because she doesn't know how to handle it herself. Mma Ramotswe wants to help Rra Polopetsi but is fearful of offending Mma Makutski, so she secretly looks into the matter - which leads to a sticky situation.
In addition Mma Makutski's old nemesis, secretarial school classmate Violet Sepotho, is causing trouble again.
The shallow, sarcastic (but beautiful and fashionable) woman has opened the "No. 1 Ladies' Secretarial School." This name-stealing is deeply distressing to Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi....but what can they do?
While dealing with these various situations Mma Ramotswe drinks a lot of bush tea; eats some fruit cake; and exhibits her usual intelligence, common sense, and sensitivity. In the end, everything turns out satisfactorily.
It's always a pleasure to visit with the series' recurring characters, including Mma Ramotswe's husband, garage owner Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni; his mechanic Charlie; Mma Makutsi's husband, furniture store owner Phuti Radiphuti; and Mma Potokwane, director of the Orphan Farm and baker of delicious cakes.
All these folks add wisdom to the story. There are even some talking shoes that have their say.
Overall, a very enjoyable book, highly recommended to fans of the series.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot....
October 31, 2015
I have read every book in this series and liked them all. This one was slow in places--it can seem like one is reading several advice columns in a row--but Smith has this magician's trick (see, I'm talking while something is happening over there) in which the reader realizes that with Smith's graceful economy of words, by the end of the story much has actually occurred. So, too, with this book.
The analogy is to drinking two or three cups of Mma Ramotswe's beloved red bush tea, only to find that the last few tablespoons were actually hot sauce.
Smith has a generous view of human nature and his stories serve as vivid advertisements for visiting Botswana.
The analogy is to drinking two or three cups of Mma Ramotswe's beloved red bush tea, only to find that the last few tablespoons were actually hot sauce.
Smith has a generous view of human nature and his stories serve as vivid advertisements for visiting Botswana.
September 27, 2015
One of my great pleasures in life is a new Precious Ramotswe book in the Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency series. I throw everything aside and settle in for a wonderful time with the calmness Mma Ramotswe brings me. The last thing I expected though was that she was going on vacation. What? Vacation? Well, sort of. It's her version of a vacation she was maneuvered into taking by her funny assistant, Mma Makutsi. This means, of course, Grace will be in charge. Will the detective agency survive?
Precious does not do well with free time. She has a run in with a young boy who tries to get "protection" money from her to guard her van. This is both a funny and touching incident as many of her meetings are. How she handles things and people are just wonderful. Has any of them rubbed off on Mma Makutsi? You'll have to read the book to find out how well she does leading the agency.
You can't go wrong on this book and it make me feel much happier after I read it. I think Precious would like that.
Precious does not do well with free time. She has a run in with a young boy who tries to get "protection" money from her to guard her van. This is both a funny and touching incident as many of her meetings are. How she handles things and people are just wonderful. Has any of them rubbed off on Mma Makutsi? You'll have to read the book to find out how well she does leading the agency.
You can't go wrong on this book and it make me feel much happier after I read it. I think Precious would like that.
November 17, 2015
Thanks to the connivance of her husband, secretary, and even Charlie, the onetime apprentice mechanic turned para-secretary, Botswana’s only lady detective — probably only detective of either sex — Precious Ramotswe has been bamboozled into a two-week vacation. But Mma Ramotswe isn’t idle but a few days before she surreptitiously returns to work — and for good reason.
In The Woman Who Walked in Sunshine, the 16th book in series that began with The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Grace Makutsi, self-styled assistant director of the agency, enjoys being the boss in Precious’ absence; however, when she brushes off an important case, Precious surreptitiously steps in to save the day.
My sister-in-law and I always eagerly await the release of each book in this series! And it’s easy to see why. A new Alexander McCall Smith novel also provides a chance to reconnect with old friends: This time, after a long hiatus, we get to see again the long-suffering Mr. Polopetsi, happy at last. We also get to call on Silvia Potokwani, the redoubtable matron of the orphan farm; meet the ladies of leisure who lunch at the President Hotel, and see Precious rescue a cruelly treated orphan. We also reencounter Grace Makutsi’s wily but beautiful arch-nemesis, Violet Sepotho, up to yet another unscrupulous scheme.
Long-time fans of Precious Ramtswe and her extended family and friends know that the mystery in these books, while always interesting, is secondary to the panoply of wonderfully realized characters. While newcomers to the series will enjoy The Woman Who Walked in Sunshine, they would be better served to start at the beginning, all the better to enjoy the stroll in the Gaborone sun.
In The Woman Who Walked in Sunshine, the 16th book in series that began with The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Grace Makutsi, self-styled assistant director of the agency, enjoys being the boss in Precious’ absence; however, when she brushes off an important case, Precious surreptitiously steps in to save the day.
My sister-in-law and I always eagerly await the release of each book in this series! And it’s easy to see why. A new Alexander McCall Smith novel also provides a chance to reconnect with old friends: This time, after a long hiatus, we get to see again the long-suffering Mr. Polopetsi, happy at last. We also get to call on Silvia Potokwani, the redoubtable matron of the orphan farm; meet the ladies of leisure who lunch at the President Hotel, and see Precious rescue a cruelly treated orphan. We also reencounter Grace Makutsi’s wily but beautiful arch-nemesis, Violet Sepotho, up to yet another unscrupulous scheme.
Long-time fans of Precious Ramtswe and her extended family and friends know that the mystery in these books, while always interesting, is secondary to the panoply of wonderfully realized characters. While newcomers to the series will enjoy The Woman Who Walked in Sunshine, they would be better served to start at the beginning, all the better to enjoy the stroll in the Gaborone sun.
November 8, 2016
I admire Alexander McCall Smith immensely, and this rating reflects my inability to keep my mind on the story. I have always listened to this series because I love the way Lisette Lecat speaks through the stories so slowly and with such clear pronunciation, accenting the English as though it is spoken by residents of Gaborone, Botswana.
In this episode, Mma Ramotswe takes a holiday, leaving the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency in the hands of Mma Makutsi. The pace of the novel is so slow, even less happening than usual, that I couldn't keep my mind on the story and thoughts just kept wandering off to feed on current events in my life, in the country. Also, a couple of things were being investigated, and one I could understand and had some interest in--the fate of a young boy who damages vehicles in a parking lot unless he is paid not to do so--and one I could not understand, even after listening for several hours. Somebody's dead husband was being defamed and no one knew why. Whatever.
Anyway, there were two great moments that showed McCall Smith's talent. When Mma Ramotswe went to find the mother of the boy she had abandoned, Mma was kind to 'that woman,' and did not criticize or humiliate her in any way. When she reunited them for an hour or two, both boy and mother had real emotion for one another.
Mma Makutsi proves her skill and intelligence while Mma Ramotswe is 'on holiday,' contrary to everyone's expectations. That is both a relief and a surprise, as it often is when one discovers an employee has unknown depths. I really admire what McCall Smith is able to do, and wish I had more enthusiasm again for this series, but I am afraid I may have come to the end of my attention span. My failure, not his.
In this episode, Mma Ramotswe takes a holiday, leaving the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency in the hands of Mma Makutsi. The pace of the novel is so slow, even less happening than usual, that I couldn't keep my mind on the story and thoughts just kept wandering off to feed on current events in my life, in the country. Also, a couple of things were being investigated, and one I could understand and had some interest in--the fate of a young boy who damages vehicles in a parking lot unless he is paid not to do so--and one I could not understand, even after listening for several hours. Somebody's dead husband was being defamed and no one knew why. Whatever.
Anyway, there were two great moments that showed McCall Smith's talent. When Mma Ramotswe went to find the mother of the boy she had abandoned, Mma was kind to 'that woman,' and did not criticize or humiliate her in any way. When she reunited them for an hour or two, both boy and mother had real emotion for one another.
Mma Makutsi proves her skill and intelligence while Mma Ramotswe is 'on holiday,' contrary to everyone's expectations. That is both a relief and a surprise, as it often is when one discovers an employee has unknown depths. I really admire what McCall Smith is able to do, and wish I had more enthusiasm again for this series, but I am afraid I may have come to the end of my attention span. My failure, not his.
October 18, 2022
****Fifth Read****
I’ve run out of things to say about this series. I can’t stress enough how much I love it and how worthwhile it is. If you’re in the mood for an uplifting read, with humor and wisdom and culture, you can’t go wrong with these books and audiobooks. Lisette Lecat, the narrator, is unmatched!
****Fourth Read****
Should I keep reviewing these books when I've read them now four times? Not sure if there is anything more to say. This is one of my favorites of the series. I love these characters so much. When you need a comfort read, any book in this series is great. The audio performances are also terrific.
I keep saying the same things over and over but if you want a series that is light without being fluffy and deep without being philosophical, if you want a laugh and great characters and kindness times a hundred, this is your book.
****Third Read****
I can't recommend this series highly enough. Nothing I can ever say will do these books or their author justice. Long live Alexander McCall Smith!
****Second Read****
This series is medicine for the heart, for the soul, for the world. It will make you laugh and even shed a tear now and then. The good always wins out but it's not sickeningly sweet or too predictable. It's a character-driven "mystery" series that is free of murder and mayhem. The audiobooks are all narrated by Lisette Lecat, who is a standout performer.
I can't recommend this series highly enough. I will probably read the next (last two) and then reread them once again. Thank you and long live Alexander McCall Smith!
****First Review****
I can't say enough about this series. If you're looking for a book full of interesting characters in a world where the highest aspects of human nature rule, there is lots of sardonic humor, with cultural references (in this case, of Botswana), you can't go wrong with these. There is so much wisdom in these books, so much comfort. I seem to need just this type of read lately, so I'm glad Alexander McCall Smith is a very prolific writer.
I want to add that as much as I enjoy Alexander McCall Smith's writing, the audiobooks, narrated by Lisette Lecat, make the books even better. Superb narration, same narrator all the way through the series. I am an audiobook addict, and I love many narrators, but Lecat may be my favorite.
I'm getting ready to start the last book of the series, Precious and Grace, after which I'll go back to the first book, The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency and start again. Nothing soothes the soul the way Alexander McCall Smith does. Absolutely nothing.
Note: The 18th book, The House of Unexpected Sisters, is due to be published November 7. Thank you, Book Gods!
I’ve run out of things to say about this series. I can’t stress enough how much I love it and how worthwhile it is. If you’re in the mood for an uplifting read, with humor and wisdom and culture, you can’t go wrong with these books and audiobooks. Lisette Lecat, the narrator, is unmatched!
****Fourth Read****
Should I keep reviewing these books when I've read them now four times? Not sure if there is anything more to say. This is one of my favorites of the series. I love these characters so much. When you need a comfort read, any book in this series is great. The audio performances are also terrific.
I keep saying the same things over and over but if you want a series that is light without being fluffy and deep without being philosophical, if you want a laugh and great characters and kindness times a hundred, this is your book.
****Third Read****
I can't recommend this series highly enough. Nothing I can ever say will do these books or their author justice. Long live Alexander McCall Smith!
****Second Read****
This series is medicine for the heart, for the soul, for the world. It will make you laugh and even shed a tear now and then. The good always wins out but it's not sickeningly sweet or too predictable. It's a character-driven "mystery" series that is free of murder and mayhem. The audiobooks are all narrated by Lisette Lecat, who is a standout performer.
I can't recommend this series highly enough. I will probably read the next (last two) and then reread them once again. Thank you and long live Alexander McCall Smith!
****First Review****
I can't say enough about this series. If you're looking for a book full of interesting characters in a world where the highest aspects of human nature rule, there is lots of sardonic humor, with cultural references (in this case, of Botswana), you can't go wrong with these. There is so much wisdom in these books, so much comfort. I seem to need just this type of read lately, so I'm glad Alexander McCall Smith is a very prolific writer.
I want to add that as much as I enjoy Alexander McCall Smith's writing, the audiobooks, narrated by Lisette Lecat, make the books even better. Superb narration, same narrator all the way through the series. I am an audiobook addict, and I love many narrators, but Lecat may be my favorite.
I'm getting ready to start the last book of the series, Precious and Grace, after which I'll go back to the first book, The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency and start again. Nothing soothes the soul the way Alexander McCall Smith does. Absolutely nothing.
Note: The 18th book, The House of Unexpected Sisters, is due to be published November 7. Thank you, Book Gods!
November 9, 2015
This is a favorite series' latest installment. Mr. Smith couldn't write fast enough to fill my desire to read one of them! The continuing story of Mms Ramotswe & Mma Mukusi & all the regulars never fails to delight me and make feel at peace except for a longing to go to Botswana. In this latest novel, Mma Rambotswe takes a vacation from the office which doesn't mean a vacation from crime-solving. Some lovely moments of reflection on her marriage. This one hAs the charm of the earlier books. Easy to read - almost a 5 - definitely a 4.5.
December 8, 2015
“I worry about you a great deal, Mma. I worry that you will take all the cares of the world on your shoulders and that you will collapse under the weight. I worry that you will open your heart to so many people that eventually it will be full – crowded – and it will stop because there is no room for the blood to go round. I am worried that you will look after so many people that you will forget that there is one person who also needs looking after, and that person is you, Mma. I am worried about all these things” Mr J. L. B. Matekoni.
The Woman Who Walked In Sunshine is the sixteenth book in the popular Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency series by British author, Alexander McCall Smith. Mma Ramotswe finds herself taking a holiday without even having consciously decided to do so. She has practically been railroaded into it by Mma Makutsi, Charlie and Mr Polopetsi, and, to her later embarrassment and shame, Mma Ramostwe realises she actually doubted the purity of Mma Makutsi’s intentions.
By the end of her first day, she has cleaned out the kitchen cupboards, excused herself from a bunch of gossiping women, rescued a young boy from slavery, twice sustained damage to her tiny white van and discovered that evil Violet Sepotho’s latest dubious venture. She misses going in to the Agency and, when Mr Polopetsi asks for her help with a case to which he has been assigned, Mma Ramotswe asks herself if Mma Makutsi is really up to the task of running the business.
As always, McCall Smith has his characters discussing or musing upon a myriad of topics: politics, getting the happiness we deserve, divine retribution, bread and dripping, our inner pyromaniac, getting stale, feminists and lesbians, uncomfortable truths and lies: “Lies can sometimes be as powerful as the truth, Mma. A lie about someone can hurt them even if everybody knows it’s a lie”. In this instalment, Mma Ramotswe learns something about herself, and about life, from an unexpected quarter, and once again, proves without doubt, her great kindness. Another heart-warming read. This audio version is, as usual, beautifully narrated by Adjoa Andoh.
The Woman Who Walked In Sunshine is the sixteenth book in the popular Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency series by British author, Alexander McCall Smith. Mma Ramotswe finds herself taking a holiday without even having consciously decided to do so. She has practically been railroaded into it by Mma Makutsi, Charlie and Mr Polopetsi, and, to her later embarrassment and shame, Mma Ramostwe realises she actually doubted the purity of Mma Makutsi’s intentions.
By the end of her first day, she has cleaned out the kitchen cupboards, excused herself from a bunch of gossiping women, rescued a young boy from slavery, twice sustained damage to her tiny white van and discovered that evil Violet Sepotho’s latest dubious venture. She misses going in to the Agency and, when Mr Polopetsi asks for her help with a case to which he has been assigned, Mma Ramotswe asks herself if Mma Makutsi is really up to the task of running the business.
As always, McCall Smith has his characters discussing or musing upon a myriad of topics: politics, getting the happiness we deserve, divine retribution, bread and dripping, our inner pyromaniac, getting stale, feminists and lesbians, uncomfortable truths and lies: “Lies can sometimes be as powerful as the truth, Mma. A lie about someone can hurt them even if everybody knows it’s a lie”. In this instalment, Mma Ramotswe learns something about herself, and about life, from an unexpected quarter, and once again, proves without doubt, her great kindness. Another heart-warming read. This audio version is, as usual, beautifully narrated by Adjoa Andoh.
December 28, 2015
I am never disappointed in this series. This is #16, and it's just as fresh and wonderful as the first one. At the end of each book, I always feel a little better about the world.
June 7, 2016
This one could be called "The Boss Takes a Holiday". It's more than 50% copy for her thoughts and perceptions, her visiting and her diverted observations which lead to good will tasks, than it is the normal more plot driven cases. Although there is bits of that as well, very stingy bits. Her Assistant is more self driven, declaring and announcing for her directions and opinions than ever. And the sun shines and the heat burns. You certainly get depth of character, but most is redundant of former established common history, just further blown to more visibility, IMHO.
If you love the Botswana pace and the snug good intent of the interacting village as it operates with glitches, but also with pride of ownership and optimism- you will love this view of it. I enjoyed most of it but like the books of the No. 1 Ladies' Det. Agency much more when they are more strongly plot driven than this one was.
This is #16 and I think I have read maybe 5 or 6 of them and the earlier ones I enjoyed more. Enough about the 97% exam result and her shoes already. Others seem to find that endearing. I like our Secretary turned Assistant much better when she surprises. And please, please- give more information and core personality /reality to M. Ramotswe's children. Makutsi's son, marriage, ownership (house, kitchen, clothes) has become more defined, finely detailed. I'd love that for the girl and the boy (Ramotswe's) who come in and out so quickly.
If you love the Botswana pace and the snug good intent of the interacting village as it operates with glitches, but also with pride of ownership and optimism- you will love this view of it. I enjoyed most of it but like the books of the No. 1 Ladies' Det. Agency much more when they are more strongly plot driven than this one was.
This is #16 and I think I have read maybe 5 or 6 of them and the earlier ones I enjoyed more. Enough about the 97% exam result and her shoes already. Others seem to find that endearing. I like our Secretary turned Assistant much better when she surprises. And please, please- give more information and core personality /reality to M. Ramotswe's children. Makutsi's son, marriage, ownership (house, kitchen, clothes) has become more defined, finely detailed. I'd love that for the girl and the boy (Ramotswe's) who come in and out so quickly.
April 15, 2017
A sweet Mma Ramotswe story, as always; this one however bubbling along slowly, never reaching any kind of real depth, real interest for me. I actually had to renew it (library)- which i think is a first for a No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency novel. Mma Makutsi seemed more irritating than fun, Mma Ramotswe seemed a bit of a push-over; maybe it’s me, but a lot of what i love about the gentle strength of the characters in this series generally, seemed timid and fragmented in this one.
Finally the central “mystery” to be detected was not. Mysterious that is.
Overall, an outlier for AMS.
Finally the central “mystery” to be detected was not. Mysterious that is.
Overall, an outlier for AMS.
October 17, 2015
These books never do more than amble along. However in this book so far, there haven't even been any cases and for the first time ever I feel like nothing much at all is happening. I hate to say it but I'm bored. I know critics of these books have said that from time to time. So far I have always found enough wisdom and philosophy about the nature of life and relationships in Botswana soothing, like a balm. This time, not so much. I'm blaming all the fab Grimdark and Sword and Sorcery I've been reading lately...
November 1, 2018
3 stars for the actual book with an extra star for the wonderful narrator..e stories are lovely but you have to be in the right mood. Here is a lot of sitting down chatting over a cup of tea!
October 24, 2019
Mma Ramotswe is urged to go on vacation, but this is easier said than done. Problems have a way of finding you even if you’ve made other plans.
October 1, 2024
Short on the interactions that make this series so special and l‑o‑n‑g on Precious Ramotswe's musings and reflections. I didn't feel the insightful glimpses into heart and soul that I've come to expect and a few times Mma Ramotswe's behavior struck me as out of character. Like the previous book this was largely a recap of the events from earlier installments and two of the requisite three cases (it seems each book always has three) were hurriedly wrapped up in the last few pages. Still a good read, just not up to the rest of the series.
November 1, 2015
So what if it's not the finest work of literature ever written? For a fan of this series, it is one of the very best. Our heroines and heroes deal with lies and heartbreak, and do so with wisdom and compassion. The gentleness with which this is done, and the affection with which McCall Smith continues to write about Africa, are a balm. The comeuppance of an old arch-nemesis is another kind of balm altogether!
November 19, 2015
I am a number one fan of Alexander McCall Smith’s No.1 Ladies Detective Agency. Smith has no foul language, no explicit sex scenes or violence in his books. Instead we have great storytelling mixed with humor and a moral message wrapped around fascinating character with some human insight mixed in. To top it all off Smith adds some history and travelogue of Botswana into his story.
Our protagonist is Mma Precious Ramotswe the owner of the agency. Her assistant is Mma Makutsi who made 97 percent on the final examination from the Botswana Secretarial School. Mma Ramotswe is taking a vacation for one week. This is her first vacation with all the misgivings that it implies and she leaves Mma Makutsi in charge. In this story Mma Ramotswe observes “an act of selfishness, some small unkindness, could seem every bit as grave as a dreadful crime, the size of the secret said nothing about its weight on the soul.” Precious sets out to right the wrong and set a young child onto the right moral path.
Lisette Lecat brings the audiobook to life with the correct accent and pronunciation of the Setswana words,and African cadence. I read the first part of the series in book format then changed to audio; for this series I will only do audio as Lecat brings Ramotswe to life.
Our protagonist is Mma Precious Ramotswe the owner of the agency. Her assistant is Mma Makutsi who made 97 percent on the final examination from the Botswana Secretarial School. Mma Ramotswe is taking a vacation for one week. This is her first vacation with all the misgivings that it implies and she leaves Mma Makutsi in charge. In this story Mma Ramotswe observes “an act of selfishness, some small unkindness, could seem every bit as grave as a dreadful crime, the size of the secret said nothing about its weight on the soul.” Precious sets out to right the wrong and set a young child onto the right moral path.
Lisette Lecat brings the audiobook to life with the correct accent and pronunciation of the Setswana words,and African cadence. I read the first part of the series in book format then changed to audio; for this series I will only do audio as Lecat brings Ramotswe to life.
January 24, 2016
Could we please go back and focus on Mma Ramotswe instead of Mma Makutsi? I don't know, I feel like the last couple of books have moved the gentle yet determined owner of the N. 1 Ladies Detective Agency a little on the side. We know a lot about Mma Makutsi's son, for example, but the childrens of Mma Ramotswe are growing up in very few words.
I still enjoy reading this warming ad spirit-lifting series, but the older books are better.
I still enjoy reading this warming ad spirit-lifting series, but the older books are better.
October 16, 2016
Reading McCall Smith is stepping back to a kinder time.
December 7, 2019
I love the narrator's Botswana accent and ability to breath life into the characters!
In 2018, I started reading The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series on a whim from my local library's audiobook selection, and found myself enjoying this slice of life-type of mystery book set in Botswana with memorable array of black characters. I just love the warm atmosphere, the African setting, the character study that shows the reader a reflection of a different culture, and most of all, I love how the narrator is able to capture accents, tones and the personality of each character so well. For a warm light-hearted book, it surprised me with its ability to dive into important social issues with a sensitivity and grace. It was beautiful. I especially loved the personal relationships here between couples, extended family members and friendships that drive the plot along.
Alexander McCall Smith is fast becoming one of my favourite authors.
In 2018, I started reading The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series on a whim from my local library's audiobook selection, and found myself enjoying this slice of life-type of mystery book set in Botswana with memorable array of black characters. I just love the warm atmosphere, the African setting, the character study that shows the reader a reflection of a different culture, and most of all, I love how the narrator is able to capture accents, tones and the personality of each character so well. For a warm light-hearted book, it surprised me with its ability to dive into important social issues with a sensitivity and grace. It was beautiful. I especially loved the personal relationships here between couples, extended family members and friendships that drive the plot along.
Alexander McCall Smith is fast becoming one of my favourite authors.
November 4, 2015
I was reading this book when I was once again reminded that I don't read them for the mysteries but for the characters and their relationships. I hope one day I'll write characters that people will want to check in with again and again, just to see how their lives are going.
August 9, 2020
As with previous books in this series, this one was a fun read. On the advice of pretty much everyone she knows, Mma Ramotswe takes a "holiday," which means that she tries not to go into the office or get involved with what's going on at the office. She's left Mma Makutsi in charge with some reservations. But, as might be expected, she does become involved. But the reveal was truly surprising to me. It's fun to watch as these characters grow and progress and as the relationship grow and change. And a familiar character, Mr. Polopetsi, is back.
September 24, 2015
We are back in sunny Botswana for the 16th instalment in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. While the initial books in the series were quite plot driven, it has evolved to a series that is much more about the characters with a thin, almost token, plot thrown in for good measure. Like the others, this is a charming book that left me feeling all warm and fuzzy about life, but I have to say that there isn't a lot to it.
Precious Ramotswe is convinced by Mma Makutsi to take a short holiday from work. The idea is that she will have a quiet time relaxing at home, but she finds it difficult to let work go. When Mr Polopetsi comes to her asking for help with a work assignment, she cannot resist the temptation to get involved without Mma Makutsi's knowledge. If, like me, you occasionally find Mma Makutsi annoying, you will find her extremely irritating this time around, although by the end of the book you may be thinking about the risks of jumping to conclusions. There are also a couple of smaller sub-plots but each takes up only a few pages towards the end of the book, which then stops quite abruptly as if Alexander McCall Smith's editor had rung up and said "it'll be fine, just send it now please".
What is lovely about these books is that reading them almost feels like taking a holiday. You are transported to a sunny and relaxed country where there is always time to exchange pleasantries or savour a cup of tea. There are also gentle lessons about trusting people and treating them well. The title itself refers to Mma Ramotswe's relationship with Mr J.L.B. Matekoni and how being loved and admired by him is "like walking in sunshine".
Precious Ramotswe is convinced by Mma Makutsi to take a short holiday from work. The idea is that she will have a quiet time relaxing at home, but she finds it difficult to let work go. When Mr Polopetsi comes to her asking for help with a work assignment, she cannot resist the temptation to get involved without Mma Makutsi's knowledge. If, like me, you occasionally find Mma Makutsi annoying, you will find her extremely irritating this time around, although by the end of the book you may be thinking about the risks of jumping to conclusions. There are also a couple of smaller sub-plots but each takes up only a few pages towards the end of the book, which then stops quite abruptly as if Alexander McCall Smith's editor had rung up and said "it'll be fine, just send it now please".
What is lovely about these books is that reading them almost feels like taking a holiday. You are transported to a sunny and relaxed country where there is always time to exchange pleasantries or savour a cup of tea. There are also gentle lessons about trusting people and treating them well. The title itself refers to Mma Ramotswe's relationship with Mr J.L.B. Matekoni and how being loved and admired by him is "like walking in sunshine".
December 7, 2022
Setting: Gaborone, Botswana.
This is the 16th book in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series yet I never get fed up with either the wonderful characters or the 'cosy' investigations they get involved in. As always, the investigations and the day-to-day events for the characters provide 'life lessons' on how people should conduct themselves.
In this episode, Mma Makutsi decides that Mma Ramotswe should take a holiday for a couple of weeks, leaving her in charge of the agency. Precious Ramotswe reluctantly agrees to take a holiday but is at somewhat of a loss to decide what to do with her newly-found leisure time - her thoughts and actions at this time are quite amusing and certainly not my idea of a holiday! Inevitably, she finds herself drawn back into what is happening at the agency - but with unexpected results.
Another excellent light read from one of my favourite authors, who is also such a lovely man - 9/10.
This is the 16th book in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series yet I never get fed up with either the wonderful characters or the 'cosy' investigations they get involved in. As always, the investigations and the day-to-day events for the characters provide 'life lessons' on how people should conduct themselves.
In this episode, Mma Makutsi decides that Mma Ramotswe should take a holiday for a couple of weeks, leaving her in charge of the agency. Precious Ramotswe reluctantly agrees to take a holiday but is at somewhat of a loss to decide what to do with her newly-found leisure time - her thoughts and actions at this time are quite amusing and certainly not my idea of a holiday! Inevitably, she finds herself drawn back into what is happening at the agency - but with unexpected results.
Another excellent light read from one of my favourite authors, who is also such a lovely man - 9/10.
May 20, 2020
Digital audiobook performed by Liset Lecat
3.5*** (rounded up)
Book sixteen in the immensely popular – and equally enjoyable – series starring Mma Precious Ramotswe and other residents of Gabaron, Botswana. In this episode Mma Ramotswe is persuaded by Mma Grace Matekoni Radiputi to take a well-deserved vacation. Except that cases still come her way: from a troubled young boy to a politician whose reputation is being sullied.
I love this series for the gentle “mysteries of daily life” and for the wonderful way that Precious arrives at the truth and solves her cases. There are no gristly murders here, though there are mysteries of human behavior. There are lessons to be learned about relationships: with husbands, children, friends, colleagues. And Precious learns something about herself as well.
Spending time with the characters of these novels is like enjoying an afternoon libation on a patio in the sunshine. May we ALL walk in sunshine!
Liset Lecat is simply marvelous as the narrator of the series’ audiobooks. She brings these characters to life.
3.5*** (rounded up)
Book sixteen in the immensely popular – and equally enjoyable – series starring Mma Precious Ramotswe and other residents of Gabaron, Botswana. In this episode Mma Ramotswe is persuaded by Mma Grace Matekoni Radiputi to take a well-deserved vacation. Except that cases still come her way: from a troubled young boy to a politician whose reputation is being sullied.
I love this series for the gentle “mysteries of daily life” and for the wonderful way that Precious arrives at the truth and solves her cases. There are no gristly murders here, though there are mysteries of human behavior. There are lessons to be learned about relationships: with husbands, children, friends, colleagues. And Precious learns something about herself as well.
Spending time with the characters of these novels is like enjoying an afternoon libation on a patio in the sunshine. May we ALL walk in sunshine!
Liset Lecat is simply marvelous as the narrator of the series’ audiobooks. She brings these characters to life.
November 11, 2015
Not you run of the mill cozy...
We are so used to reading mysteries with gruesome, grisly dead bodies, torture scenes, rapes, and car chases it is a delight to pick up another Alexander McCall book in this series. He writes an intelligent, thoughtful book that keeps our attention just fine without the blood, gore, sex and shock. Not an easy thing to pull off. Many books are 'clean' but that's all they can claim. They're often marketed to a Christian audience and are poorly written. McCall fills a unique niche. Good read!
We are so used to reading mysteries with gruesome, grisly dead bodies, torture scenes, rapes, and car chases it is a delight to pick up another Alexander McCall book in this series. He writes an intelligent, thoughtful book that keeps our attention just fine without the blood, gore, sex and shock. Not an easy thing to pull off. Many books are 'clean' but that's all they can claim. They're often marketed to a Christian audience and are poorly written. McCall fills a unique niche. Good read!
November 26, 2020
I really enjoyed spending time again with Mma Ramotse and Mma Makutsi, the ladies in the No 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. In this "episode" Mma Makutsi convinces Mma Ramotswe to take a holiday from the business and leave her in charge as Acting Head. After some hesitation, she agrees, but is pulled back into a case from Mr. Polopetsi not being able to handle the stress. After some digging, Mma Ramotswe thinks she has solved the case, only to discover that Mma Makutsi had solved it correctly already (whereas Mma Ramotswe had not). All is good between them in the end.
Violet Sephotho also makes an appearance, starting up a No 1 Ladies Secretarial College...Mma Makutsi lets her have it. Great scenes.
I really love the characters in this series, and love the author's descriptions of the country of Botswana.
Violet Sephotho also makes an appearance, starting up a No 1 Ladies Secretarial College...Mma Makutsi lets her have it. Great scenes.
I really love the characters in this series, and love the author's descriptions of the country of Botswana.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,639 reviews