Sunday, March 4, 2012

The Limpopo Academy of Private Detection-Alexander McCall Smith

The Limpopo Academy of Private Detection


Alexander McCall Smith

Pantheon, Apr 3 2012, $24.95

ISBN 9780307378408



Owner of the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency in Gaborone, Botswana, Precious Ramotswe repeatedly dreams of a tall stranger. However, Precious wastes no time dwelling on quirky dreams as she and her partner take on the case of Fanwell, the top apprentice at Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors who is in trouble with the law due to a “friendly” association. The two sleuths also are looking into the shenanigans a contractor is pulling on Grace Makutsi and Phuti Radiphuti.



The star of her recent dreams, American Clovis Andersen arrives. He is the author of Precious’ precious guidebook, The Principles of Private Detection. Finally, joined by Clovis, Precious inquires into the firing of highly regarded Mma Potokwane, as matron at the orphan farm.



The latest No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency tale (see The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party) contains strong detecting subplots, but these are used to bring out life in Botswana. The leisure storyline is fun to read, but as Precious finds out a veteran can learn new tricks. Fans will enjoy the latest fascinating trip to Africa as Precious is a caring guide.



Harriet Klausner

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