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No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency #8
The Good Husband of Zebra Drive
THE NO. 1 LADIES’ DETECTIVE AGENCY - Book 8
Fans around the world adore the bestselling No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, the basis of the HBO TV show, and its proprietor Precious Ramotswe, Botswana’s premier lady detective. In this charming series, Mma Ramotswe navigates her cases and her personal life with wisdom, and good humor—not to mention help from her loyal assistant, Grace Makutsi, and the occasional cup of tea.
In the life of Precious Ramotswe–a woman duly proud of her fine traditional build– there is rarely a dull moment, and in the latest installment in the universally beloved No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series there is much happening on Zebra Drive and Tlokweng Road. Mma Ramotswe is experiencing staffing difficulties. First Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni asks to be put in charge of a case involving an errant husband. But can a man investigate such matters as successfully as the number one lady detective can? Then she has a minor falling-out with her assistant, Mma Makutsi, who decides to leave the agency, taking the 97 percent she received on her typing final from the Botswana Secretarial College with her.
Along the way, Mma Ramotswe is asked to investigate a couple of tricky cases. Will she be able to explain an unexpected series of deaths at the hospital in Mochudi? And what about the missing office supplies at a local printing company? These are the types of questions that she is uniquely well suited to answer.
In the end, whatever happens, Mma Ramotswe knows she can count on Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni, who stands for all that is solid and true in a shifting world. And there is always her love for Botswana, a country of which she is justifiably proud.
Fans around the world adore the bestselling No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, the basis of the HBO TV show, and its proprietor Precious Ramotswe, Botswana’s premier lady detective. In this charming series, Mma Ramotswe navigates her cases and her personal life with wisdom, and good humor—not to mention help from her loyal assistant, Grace Makutsi, and the occasional cup of tea.
In the life of Precious Ramotswe–a woman duly proud of her fine traditional build– there is rarely a dull moment, and in the latest installment in the universally beloved No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series there is much happening on Zebra Drive and Tlokweng Road. Mma Ramotswe is experiencing staffing difficulties. First Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni asks to be put in charge of a case involving an errant husband. But can a man investigate such matters as successfully as the number one lady detective can? Then she has a minor falling-out with her assistant, Mma Makutsi, who decides to leave the agency, taking the 97 percent she received on her typing final from the Botswana Secretarial College with her.
Along the way, Mma Ramotswe is asked to investigate a couple of tricky cases. Will she be able to explain an unexpected series of deaths at the hospital in Mochudi? And what about the missing office supplies at a local printing company? These are the types of questions that she is uniquely well suited to answer.
In the end, whatever happens, Mma Ramotswe knows she can count on Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni, who stands for all that is solid and true in a shifting world. And there is always her love for Botswana, a country of which she is justifiably proud.
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published April 17, 2007
About the author
Alexander McCall Smith
553 books12.3k 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,440 reviews
December 13, 2022
I just can’t get enough of the African detective agency. There are always new interesting cases where the truth is revealed through reasoning and asking the right questions. I always feel happy when reading the series, since I love the characters and how down to earth they are.
August 27, 2024
In this 8th book in the 'No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency' series, the firm has three cases to solve. The book can be read as a standalone but familiarity with the characters is a bonus.
*****
The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency in Gabarone, Botswana - owned by Mma Precious Ramotswe, shares premises with Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors - owned by her husband Mr. JLB Matekoni.
Thus Mr. Matekoni is on hand when the detective agency is unmanned and a client walks in. The client, Mma Faith Botumile, says her husband is being unfaithful and she wants to know who the other woman is.
Mr. Matekoni reports the matter to his wife, and wanting to expand his horizons, asks if he can do the investigation. Mma Ramotswe agrees and Mr. Matekoni proceeds to surveil Rra Botumile.
Things don't go quite as planned, however, and the new 'detective' makes some unexpected discoveries.
Meanwhile Mma Ramotswe is dealing with a much more serious matter. Her distant cousin Tati Monyena, a hospital administrator, asks her to investigate the deaths of three patients. Mr. Monyena explains that, on three consecutive Fridays, a patient in the end bed of the ward died at eleven o'clock in the morning.
Foul play can't be ruled out, and Mma Ramotswe proceeds to visit the hospital, interview the personnel, and so on. In the end, Mma Ramotswe's keen observations help her discover the truth.
The third case is handled by Mma Grace Makutsi, Mma Ramotswe's secretary/assistant detective. The client is a small woman called Teenie Magama, who owns a printing business.
Teenie reports that, although she treats her employees well, one of them is stealing supplies - paper, ink, and the like. Mma Makutsi goes undercover as a customer to look into the matter.
As always in this series, personal relationships are as important as the mysteries....and changes appear to be on the horizon.
Mma Makutsi, who was poor all her life, is now engaged to successful businessman Phuti Rhadiphuti. This means Mma Makutsi no longer needs to work, and after a small altercation with her boss, she thinks about quitting. Mma Makutsi's talking shoes weigh in here, and they always give wise advice.
Things are happening at Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors as well. Twenty-year-old Charlie, Mr. JLB Matekoni's less than stellar apprentice, decides to leave and start a taxi business. Charlie purchases an old Mercedes Benz from his boss, with an agreement to pay it off over time. Charlie gets his business off the ground but his skirt-chasing habits soon cause big trouble.
Popular recurring characters also make an appearance, including Mr. Polopetsi, a part time detective who helps Mma Ramotswe with the hospital case; Mma Potokwane - the orphan farm director, who makes excellent fruit cake; Motholeli and Puso - Mma Ramotswe's foster children; and Violet Sephoto - Mma Makutsi's glamorous nemesis from secretarial school.
Throughout the book Mma Ramotswe demonstrates her usual empathy for all people, including wrongdoers. The world would probably be a better place if everyone had Mma Ramotswe's wise compassion.
I enjoyed the story, but it lacks the humor usually present in these books. Still, this is a good cozy mystery, recommended to fans of the series.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot....
March 20, 2009
After quite a few years of living it, I've come to the conclusion that life is made of two things: time and attention. What I love about the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series is the way the author, Alexander McCall Smith, handles both.
In The Good Husband of Zebra Drive, as in all the books in the series, the pace is lazy and relaxed. If I ever visit that part of Africa, I expect that I'll recognize the way the sun feels there, the way the dust settles on the roads after a car goes by. The umbrella-like trees and the dignified, enduring cattle will seem familiar. Mma Ramotswe, the central character, notices these things, and I've spent many happy hours gazing at Africa through her eyes.
In this book, Mma ponders the mysteries of life and concludes that it is made of big things and small things. The big things, good and bad, are writ large, impossible to ignore. So it's essential to notice and find joy in the small things: "small acts of helping others, if one could; small ways of making one's own life better: acts of love, acts of tea, acts of laughter."
I recommend this book as a small vacation from life's big concerns. It goes well with an evening of leisure and a nice, hot cup of red bush tea.
In The Good Husband of Zebra Drive, as in all the books in the series, the pace is lazy and relaxed. If I ever visit that part of Africa, I expect that I'll recognize the way the sun feels there, the way the dust settles on the roads after a car goes by. The umbrella-like trees and the dignified, enduring cattle will seem familiar. Mma Ramotswe, the central character, notices these things, and I've spent many happy hours gazing at Africa through her eyes.
In this book, Mma ponders the mysteries of life and concludes that it is made of big things and small things. The big things, good and bad, are writ large, impossible to ignore. So it's essential to notice and find joy in the small things: "small acts of helping others, if one could; small ways of making one's own life better: acts of love, acts of tea, acts of laughter."
I recommend this book as a small vacation from life's big concerns. It goes well with an evening of leisure and a nice, hot cup of red bush tea.
August 3, 2017
Ok, we're up to the 8th installment of the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, it's pretty review-proof and/or just not a whole lot to say other than it's another perfectly pleasant literary trip to visit some perfectly pleasant friends (well, Mma Makutsi tends to get a bit crabby at times.
This time around I almost was creating a No. 1 Ladies' drinking game. Mention of Mma. Makutsi's 97% score at Secretarial School? Drink! Reference to Mma. Ramotswe's how-to book Clovis Anderson's "The Principles of Private Detection"? Drink! A woman being described as "traditionally built"? Drink! And to send us over the edge... any mention of tea drinking (and make it a double if it's bush tea)? Drink! Drink! Drink!
Readers know exactly what they're getting when they open one of these books, so it is hard to find any quibbles or, on the flip side, muster up any extra excitement. I'd still say this was an above average installment with a lot of the regulars getting their own little subplots. 3.5 stars, but with the usual guilty pleasure/literary palate cleanser round down to 3 stars.
This time around I almost was creating a No. 1 Ladies' drinking game. Mention of Mma. Makutsi's 97% score at Secretarial School? Drink! Reference to Mma. Ramotswe's how-to book Clovis Anderson's "The Principles of Private Detection"? Drink! A woman being described as "traditionally built"? Drink! And to send us over the edge... any mention of tea drinking (and make it a double if it's bush tea)? Drink! Drink! Drink!
Readers know exactly what they're getting when they open one of these books, so it is hard to find any quibbles or, on the flip side, muster up any extra excitement. I'd still say this was an above average installment with a lot of the regulars getting their own little subplots. 3.5 stars, but with the usual guilty pleasure/literary palate cleanser round down to 3 stars.
November 2, 2021
In this 8th book in the series, Mr. J.L.B. Matakoni decides to try helping out with one of the cases. Will he find detective work to be as fulfilling as fixing an engine? His investigation was one of my favorite parts of the book. Charlie, the apprentice, is ready to spread his wings and start his own Ladies No. 1 Taxi Service. Mma Makutzi is not a fan of the plan. She is also looking at greener pastures, but are they really? Two other cases come along and keep the agency busy. They are not too busy for tea, however. An entire chapter describes the tea regime at the agency. Good stuff!
December 1, 2024
Sixth read: I can’t believe I’ve read this book now six times 😀, the last time with my husband. We both enjoyed it. Mma Makutse is still my favorite. She always makes me smile. So many great reasons to read … and listen to … these books.
Fifth read: I'm running out of things to say about this series. These books are good for the soul. If you are a highly sensitive empath, like me, these words will nourish you, and will fill up your tank whenever you find yourself depleted. Guaranteed laughs and smiles and soft tugs on the heart - what more do you want?
Fourth read: What more can I say? AMS is a wonderful author, because he has a sensitive eye and feels things deeply, has a terrific, wry sense of humor and conveys all of these wonderfully through his characters. They are people you'll enjoy spending time with and if you're listening to the audiobooks narrated by the wonderful Lisette Lecat, you can't beat this series for comfort and smiles without foolishness.
I don't know if I could ever write a review that would adequately describe what this series means to me and how I feel every time I listen to these books.
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Third read: If you've liked a book in this series, you'd most likely enjoy the entire series. They are perfect when you want a gentle read that isn't too light, a laugh or two or three (especially if you're listening to the audiobook), some culture, and wonderful, interesting characters. Imo this series gets better as it goes and the audiobook narration by Lisette Lecat can't be beat.
Second Read:
One of the best things about 2017, for me, has been rereading this series by Alexander McCall Smith. If you find yourself needing a book that will give you something to chew on but is mostly about human interaction, community, civility, kindness and humor, with a good dose of culture, then there is a very long series here that will fill the bill. 17 volumes so far, and a new one coming out next month.
There were a few surprises in this volume I didn't expect, I love the characters more the more I read about them, and this is a very rare series in that it gets better as it goes. The first volume is more like a book of interconnected short stories and is by far the weakest. It gets better and better, I promise.
Lisette Lecat narrates each audiobook and her performance can't be outdone. She changes voices convincingly and thoughtfully, and her voice paired with this series is a match made in heaven.
Do yourself a favor and give this series a try. I've already read most of them twice and I'm getting ready to buy the entire series. I know that I will read them again and again. I can't say this about very many books!
First Read:
4.5 stars. Best of the series so far. Really enjoyed this one.
Fifth read: I'm running out of things to say about this series. These books are good for the soul. If you are a highly sensitive empath, like me, these words will nourish you, and will fill up your tank whenever you find yourself depleted. Guaranteed laughs and smiles and soft tugs on the heart - what more do you want?
Fourth read: What more can I say? AMS is a wonderful author, because he has a sensitive eye and feels things deeply, has a terrific, wry sense of humor and conveys all of these wonderfully through his characters. They are people you'll enjoy spending time with and if you're listening to the audiobooks narrated by the wonderful Lisette Lecat, you can't beat this series for comfort and smiles without foolishness.
I don't know if I could ever write a review that would adequately describe what this series means to me and how I feel every time I listen to these books.
<><><><><><><><><
Third read: If you've liked a book in this series, you'd most likely enjoy the entire series. They are perfect when you want a gentle read that isn't too light, a laugh or two or three (especially if you're listening to the audiobook), some culture, and wonderful, interesting characters. Imo this series gets better as it goes and the audiobook narration by Lisette Lecat can't be beat.
Second Read:
One of the best things about 2017, for me, has been rereading this series by Alexander McCall Smith. If you find yourself needing a book that will give you something to chew on but is mostly about human interaction, community, civility, kindness and humor, with a good dose of culture, then there is a very long series here that will fill the bill. 17 volumes so far, and a new one coming out next month.
There were a few surprises in this volume I didn't expect, I love the characters more the more I read about them, and this is a very rare series in that it gets better as it goes. The first volume is more like a book of interconnected short stories and is by far the weakest. It gets better and better, I promise.
Lisette Lecat narrates each audiobook and her performance can't be outdone. She changes voices convincingly and thoughtfully, and her voice paired with this series is a match made in heaven.
Do yourself a favor and give this series a try. I've already read most of them twice and I'm getting ready to buy the entire series. I know that I will read them again and again. I can't say this about very many books!
First Read:
4.5 stars. Best of the series so far. Really enjoyed this one.
April 6, 2020
No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency casebook No. 8): As typified by this series as a whole, yet another wonderful yet strangely compelling tale set in Botswana. Mma Makutsi and mechanic Charlie want to leave, JLB wants to detect, and there are no less than three cases including suspected serial murder at a hospital! It is actually quite annoying that one of the most charming and relatable and also positive African serials is written by a white dude in his 70s (he's Zimbabwean born, I believe?) 7 out of 12.
July 4, 2020
Per i libri con protagonista la signora Ramotswe e la sua Ladies’ Detective Agency n. 1, uso uno speciale criterio di valutazione. Mi fanno star bene, ci sono pillole di buon senso cosi semplici, c’è un mondo in via di estinzione, fatto di educazione, rispetto per le tradizioni, saggezza, un mondo in cui è rilassante soffermarsi, fa bene al cuore.
Per questo motivo questi libri avranno sempre le mie quattro stelle.
Per questo motivo questi libri avranno sempre le mie quattro stelle.
April 10, 2016
This book stands out for me because of the shake-up caused by one of the main characters in the series... but it seems like things were righted appropriately and put neatly back in to place.
The case about the hospital was quite good - they already told this case on the BBC/HBO show, but they changed some of the details. I liked that it had much more depth in the books.
...and as a complete aside... I wish Mma Ramotswe's confidence, civility, and enduring optimism could be bottled up and doled out to the masses.
The case about the hospital was quite good - they already told this case on the BBC/HBO show, but they changed some of the details. I liked that it had much more depth in the books.
...and as a complete aside... I wish Mma Ramotswe's confidence, civility, and enduring optimism could be bottled up and doled out to the masses.
August 7, 2020
After reading many of these books when they were first released and now having reread eight of them in the last 4 months, I feel like I could write these myself! Traditional Botswana morals, blah, blah, blah. Comfortably built women, blah, blah, blah. Best mechanic in all of Botswana, blah, blah, blah. Feckless apprentices, blah, blah, blah. Grace Makutsi's 97% score at Botswana Secretarial College. I could go on, but I won't.
Like all outings in this mystery series, there are a handful of mysteries to be solved. Here we have a woman who wants to catch out her husband's infidelity. Mr. J. L. B. Maketoni takes this one on to see if he is cut out to be a detective. (you already know the answer. :)) The owner of a printing shop wants to identify which employee is stealing supplies. Mma Makutsi handles this one on her own. And a hospital in Mochudi wants to solve the mystery of why several elderly patients have all died several Fridays in a row in the same bed at the same time while in their care. Mma Romotswe to the rescue!
In the backdrop, we glimpse the everyday lives of the main characters, including a certain apprentice and a certain assistant detective expressing dissatisfaction with their jobs. But as with most of these stories, it ends on a satisfying, if predictable, note.
Why I'm reading this: I'm on a roll with No. 1 Ladies', and since this was available for curbside pickup at one of our libraries, I'm diving right in.
Like all outings in this mystery series, there are a handful of mysteries to be solved. Here we have a woman who wants to catch out her husband's infidelity. Mr. J. L. B. Maketoni takes this one on to see if he is cut out to be a detective. (you already know the answer. :)) The owner of a printing shop wants to identify which employee is stealing supplies. Mma Makutsi handles this one on her own. And a hospital in Mochudi wants to solve the mystery of why several elderly patients have all died several Fridays in a row in the same bed at the same time while in their care. Mma Romotswe to the rescue!
In the backdrop, we glimpse the everyday lives of the main characters, including a certain apprentice and a certain assistant detective expressing dissatisfaction with their jobs. But as with most of these stories, it ends on a satisfying, if predictable, note.
Why I'm reading this: I'm on a roll with No. 1 Ladies', and since this was available for curbside pickup at one of our libraries, I'm diving right in.
August 24, 2007
This was a surprise eighth installment to a series that was supposed to end with seven. While I am a big fan of the series, I found this particular book to be disappointing for a number of reasons, most of them related to the plot.
As is his usual set-up, McCall Smith starts a series of mini-mysteries to be solved by the ever-resourceful Mma Ramotswe and/or her colorful assistant, Mma Makutsi. In this book, several characters get their own mystery to solve, some with more success than others. Some of the plot lines break down, only to be gathered up hastily with weak explanations. There is also a lack of continuity between some of the story lines.
While the subplots have some definite leaks, the author's painting of the characters continues to be what makes these books so good. The reader learns a bit more about Mr. JLB Matekoni, although the mystery behind his depression remains as such. Mma Makutsi continues to have enjoyable dialogues with her shoes as she prepares for the next phase in her life. The children, Motholeli and Puso, make only brief appearances, as does Phuti Radiphuti.
There are still a few open loops in the tale of Mma Ramotswe and cohorts, so the author might not be finished with the series. Should there be a next installment, however, I hope that McCall Smith finds a fresh supply of creative plot lines.
As is his usual set-up, McCall Smith starts a series of mini-mysteries to be solved by the ever-resourceful Mma Ramotswe and/or her colorful assistant, Mma Makutsi. In this book, several characters get their own mystery to solve, some with more success than others. Some of the plot lines break down, only to be gathered up hastily with weak explanations. There is also a lack of continuity between some of the story lines.
While the subplots have some definite leaks, the author's painting of the characters continues to be what makes these books so good. The reader learns a bit more about Mr. JLB Matekoni, although the mystery behind his depression remains as such. Mma Makutsi continues to have enjoyable dialogues with her shoes as she prepares for the next phase in her life. The children, Motholeli and Puso, make only brief appearances, as does Phuti Radiphuti.
There are still a few open loops in the tale of Mma Ramotswe and cohorts, so the author might not be finished with the series. Should there be a next installment, however, I hope that McCall Smith finds a fresh supply of creative plot lines.
October 6, 2008
Another visit to comfortable Botswana and Mma Rawotse’s detective agency. This edition centers around separating and rejoining. Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni tries his hand at detecting with expected results. Mma Makutsi decides that she need no longer work at the agency and decides to strike out to find another job. Smith amusingly gives her blue shoes a voice. Charlie, the apprentice, wants to quit and start a cab company. The mysteries are the usual simple items. Mysterious deaths at a hospital resolve in an obvious manner. Is the husband of an obnoxious woman cheating? Smith continues to offer an engaging if not very exciting read, soft shoes for the mind
April 30, 2020
I just absolutely love this series!
May 3, 2019
My favorite of this series by far!
The lives of Mma Ramotswe and husband Mr JLB Matekoni, proprietors of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency and Tlokweng Motors, respectively, are disrupted by employees. Mma Makutsi seems to push the boundaries more with each installment, while careless Charlie remains true to form. Mechanic Matekoni tries to be a detective but decides it’s not for him.
The lives of Mma Ramotswe and husband Mr JLB Matekoni, proprietors of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency and Tlokweng Motors, respectively, are disrupted by employees. Mma Makutsi seems to push the boundaries more with each installment, while careless Charlie remains true to form. Mechanic Matekoni tries to be a detective but decides it’s not for him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2016
The tone of this book changed a little with resignations, new endeavours and people evaluating their position in life. I enjoyed the change, it makes the books more real to me. People don't follow the same path happily all the time. They question, they deviate. I really love this series and am glad there are 8 books left to go, I'll miss Mma Ramotswe and her words of wisdom.
May 1, 2014
I always begin a new book in this series thinking here we go again but I am quickly seduced by the gentle lilting stories and genuinely like all of the characters. Of course there are moments of conflict but we could all learn something from the way the characters deal with it.
September 6, 2019
These are slow cozy mysteries and often no death is involved and there are no murders as our detective does not take those kind of cases. Things are a bit off for everyone. Everyone seems slightly out of sorts, Mercury must be in retrograde, and things keep going wrong for some people. Feelings are fragile and mistakes are made, but like all of these dips into the lives of these beloved Botswanans, things have a way of resolving themselves even if they are not done so to their original intentions. Take another seat and join Mma Remotswe and Rra JLB Matakoni we they take care of everyone around them.
May 6, 2015
I loved the first few books in this series but lost interest after the Full Cupboard of Life. Something about this book's cover appealed to me and I looked forward to immersing myself in Mma Ramotswe's African world again.
I didn't really enjoy the book very much, it was an effort to finish it. The writing was as good, the little plots and twists and turns as amusing, and all the familiar characters were getting on with their lives, so what was it?
To me, Mma Ramotswe was just a paper figure in this book. There was scarcely a mention of her home life - no more than two or three cursory mentions of her children, just one reminiscence of her childhood life with her beloved father and nothing at all on her traditional African figure that figures so largely in other books. Nothing much either on interplay between her and anyone much except Mma Makutsi. Various other characters, such as Mma Potokwane, she of the commanding presence and orphanage, were just drawn briefly into the book to further one of the stories, but did not figure herself.
Some books you read for plot, some you read for the characters and this book was just weak tea, ordinary tea, no more strong bush tea to be poured into a cup to be sipped slowly, with enjoyment.
I didn't really enjoy the book very much, it was an effort to finish it. The writing was as good, the little plots and twists and turns as amusing, and all the familiar characters were getting on with their lives, so what was it?
To me, Mma Ramotswe was just a paper figure in this book. There was scarcely a mention of her home life - no more than two or three cursory mentions of her children, just one reminiscence of her childhood life with her beloved father and nothing at all on her traditional African figure that figures so largely in other books. Nothing much either on interplay between her and anyone much except Mma Makutsi. Various other characters, such as Mma Potokwane, she of the commanding presence and orphanage, were just drawn briefly into the book to further one of the stories, but did not figure herself.
Some books you read for plot, some you read for the characters and this book was just weak tea, ordinary tea, no more strong bush tea to be poured into a cup to be sipped slowly, with enjoyment.
January 23, 2016
After reading some "serious" stuff, it's always a relief and a joy to pick up the next (for me) Alexander McCall Smith and just ENJOY reading again. How does he do it? How does he keep it up? This one (NOT his latest - I had missed it) is better than some others. The story is complex (3 investigations going on at once) and the beloved characters do some "unusual" things - particularly Mma Makutsi and Charlie. The simple and beautiful writing could be maudlin, but then he puts in a quick and sharp turn. It almost makes me want to go see Botswana.
October 19, 2022
This was another successful visit to Botswana and the crew of good-hearted people who populate these pages. Precious Ramotswe is the proprietor of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency. Her husband, assistant and other employees at the garage all play individual parts in this entry. Mma Ramotswe's main case is investigating mysterious deaths at a hospital.
I'm always challenged as to what shelf to add these to. The mysteries are very light and not necessarily the main focus of the story. These are comfort reads, full of compassion and life lessons that act as a balm for the soul.
I'm always challenged as to what shelf to add these to. The mysteries are very light and not necessarily the main focus of the story. These are comfort reads, full of compassion and life lessons that act as a balm for the soul.
October 30, 2012
While THE GOOD HUSBAND OF ZEBRA DRIVE is, on the surface, a typically satisfying addition to the long-running series of Botswana-set books by Alexander McCall Smith, there's something about it that isn't quite right.
Superficially, the story is as good as ever; Smith carries out his usual attention to detail and weaves separate sub-plots together in an engaging and pacy read. The characters are drawn from real life, the human interaction and conversations are witty and engaging, and the mysteries are suitably mysterious.
But somehow this isn't as good as previous instalments, and the contrast may be greater because the previous entry, BLUE SHOES AND HAPPINESS, was one of my all-time favourites. But while that story was fairly idyllic, THE GOOD HUSBAND OF ZEBRA DRIVE tells a darker story. The characters seem more unhappy, the world more harshly realistic, and the novel as a whole just isn't as much fun.
I also get the impression that this book was written at speed to a deadline, because a lot of the plotting is overly predictable. At least one sub-plot (Mr J. L. B. Matekoni's detection) hinges on a twist so obvious as to be overstated, while another (the hospital case) is openly copied from a famous news story of a few years ago. While I've enjoyed all the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency books thus far, and while this one was mildly entertaining, this is the first time I've felt that the stories might be running out of steam. We'll see how the next book goes...
Superficially, the story is as good as ever; Smith carries out his usual attention to detail and weaves separate sub-plots together in an engaging and pacy read. The characters are drawn from real life, the human interaction and conversations are witty and engaging, and the mysteries are suitably mysterious.
But somehow this isn't as good as previous instalments, and the contrast may be greater because the previous entry, BLUE SHOES AND HAPPINESS, was one of my all-time favourites. But while that story was fairly idyllic, THE GOOD HUSBAND OF ZEBRA DRIVE tells a darker story. The characters seem more unhappy, the world more harshly realistic, and the novel as a whole just isn't as much fun.
I also get the impression that this book was written at speed to a deadline, because a lot of the plotting is overly predictable. At least one sub-plot (Mr J. L. B. Matekoni's detection) hinges on a twist so obvious as to be overstated, while another (the hospital case) is openly copied from a famous news story of a few years ago. While I've enjoyed all the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency books thus far, and while this one was mildly entertaining, this is the first time I've felt that the stories might be running out of steam. We'll see how the next book goes...
June 11, 2009
I love this series. I did not love this book, which makes me kind of sad. I had two major problems with this particular volume. First, the overarching theme appeared to be "people are who they are, and there's no point trying to change who you are," which I find defeatist and unappealing. Second, nearly all of the intertwining subplots made me uncomfortable. Part of the reason is that Mma Makutsi and Mr. JLB Matekoni were acting in ways that seemed out of character to me (which of course was to illuminate the theme). But also, Mr. JLB Matekoni's and Charlie's subplots were obvious and predictable disasters in the making, and that hit my embarrassment squick.
One final thing I didn't like, which hardly counts, is that ordinarily the repetitive quirks of McCall's Smith storytelling - the tiny white van, the 97 percent - act as soothing, familiar balm. But when I was annoyed with the story, they annoyed me as well. I counted the phrase "beamed with pleasure" four times. Argh. But on the other hand, Mma Ramotswe's observations of Botswana and her people were always thoughtful and interesting, and the final chapters were quite satisfying.
One final thing I didn't like, which hardly counts, is that ordinarily the repetitive quirks of McCall's Smith storytelling - the tiny white van, the 97 percent - act as soothing, familiar balm. But when I was annoyed with the story, they annoyed me as well. I counted the phrase "beamed with pleasure" four times. Argh. But on the other hand, Mma Ramotswe's observations of Botswana and her people were always thoughtful and interesting, and the final chapters were quite satisfying.
May 20, 2015
One of the things I really love about these books is how so much happens and yet so little really changes. This book was another great example of this with 2 resignations, 3 coincidental deaths in a hospital, and the red bush tea bags having run out at morning tea time! Yet we still end the book in that peaceful and thoughtful way that Mma Ramotswe has!
One highlight for me reading this was as I traveled out of Botswana and arrived in South Africa I was greeted at the airport lounge by a less abrupt and somewhat prettier Zmma Makuti... But oh! It was those glasses! Felt like I was still totally immersed in the world of The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency!
One highlight for me reading this was as I traveled out of Botswana and arrived in South Africa I was greeted at the airport lounge by a less abrupt and somewhat prettier Zmma Makuti... But oh! It was those glasses! Felt like I was still totally immersed in the world of The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency!
December 12, 2015
This one moved along a little slowly for me. I did enjoy the addition of some conflict between Mma R and Mma M - it made their relationship seem more genuine. Poor Charlie! He always seems to get into trouble.
February 12, 2021
Still fun and light hearted. As all other books in the series, it feels like background music while you are busy doing something, the melody doesn't acquire your full attention but every now and then when you tune in, it still flows. I will probably check out next one when the mood is right, no pressure - just like our lady solves her cases.
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January 2, 2022Sometimes you need an uncomplicated book to take you to a different (time and) place and vividly describe what its nature and people are like, while entertaining you with a few mysteries that are tidily solved by a very likeable character. McCall Smith is a good and reliable story teller that never fails to provide what you are reading his books for: to let your mind drift to other places and relax.
July 12, 2012
Dr. Cronje, who's half Xhosa and half Afrikaner, consults Smith's sleuth, the gentle and insightful Precious Ramotswe, because patients at his hospital who have occupied a particular bed have been dying mysteriously at the same time of day.
Also, this time around, Mma Ramotswe's devoted husband (and first-class mechanic) J. L. B. Matekoni also tries his hand at the detective business, catering to a rude client who suspects her husband of infidelity. The case prompts Mr. Matekoni to wonder whether he's exciting enough for his cherished wife.
Meanwhile, Mma Ramotswe's recently engaged assistant, Grace Makutsi, threatens to break their longstanding association. Mma Ramotswe must adjust their relationship in order to retain Mma Makutsi's services. Her professional priorities seem to shift after her engagement to a wealthy man. Talk about suddenly feeling high and mighty! I must say that one of the reasons I hated this entry into the series is because I can no longer stand Mma Makutsi.
Sure, you love the characters, but the tales are simply not up to his previous installments, not nearly as layered or workmanlike. Sadly I need to say that this book and the previous one are starting to feel a bit thin. It's as if he has sucked almost all the juice out of the orange, or like a piece of chewing gum that has been chewed so long it has lost its flavor. It just did not seem as interesting or as gripping as the first books.
Book Details:
Title The Good Husband of Zebra Drive (No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency #8)
Author Alexander McCall Smith
Reviewed By Purplycookie
Also, this time around, Mma Ramotswe's devoted husband (and first-class mechanic) J. L. B. Matekoni also tries his hand at the detective business, catering to a rude client who suspects her husband of infidelity. The case prompts Mr. Matekoni to wonder whether he's exciting enough for his cherished wife.
Meanwhile, Mma Ramotswe's recently engaged assistant, Grace Makutsi, threatens to break their longstanding association. Mma Ramotswe must adjust their relationship in order to retain Mma Makutsi's services. Her professional priorities seem to shift after her engagement to a wealthy man. Talk about suddenly feeling high and mighty! I must say that one of the reasons I hated this entry into the series is because I can no longer stand Mma Makutsi.
Sure, you love the characters, but the tales are simply not up to his previous installments, not nearly as layered or workmanlike. Sadly I need to say that this book and the previous one are starting to feel a bit thin. It's as if he has sucked almost all the juice out of the orange, or like a piece of chewing gum that has been chewed so long it has lost its flavor. It just did not seem as interesting or as gripping as the first books.
Book Details:
Title The Good Husband of Zebra Drive (No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency #8)
Author Alexander McCall Smith
Reviewed By Purplycookie
July 20, 2017
This book was a little different from the previous ones and I think I felt a little threatened when Mma Mkutsi left the agency. I could almost hear myself saying, "Oh, no, this is my island of security! This is the wonderful, enduring, changeless land in Botswana that speaks to me through the old friends of this book. I don't want anyone to go away! Even Charlie is necessary. Don't change what's working!!!"
But then, even change is necessary to pique the interest and create tension. I have to tell you that I was very relieved when the problems were resolved and everyone got back in their places. I missed hearing more about Phuti Radiphuti and I expect that Smith will have to add another book to round out that character.
I have come to love Botswana as seen through the eyes of Mma Ramotswe. Here love of her country, the endless land, the wide big skies, the cattle and the simple needs of its people. I know things are changing and there are horrible problems with AIDS/HIV, but they are all played out on a background of the enduring land that Smith has managed to reproduce for us.
But then, even change is necessary to pique the interest and create tension. I have to tell you that I was very relieved when the problems were resolved and everyone got back in their places. I missed hearing more about Phuti Radiphuti and I expect that Smith will have to add another book to round out that character.
I have come to love Botswana as seen through the eyes of Mma Ramotswe. Here love of her country, the endless land, the wide big skies, the cattle and the simple needs of its people. I know things are changing and there are horrible problems with AIDS/HIV, but they are all played out on a background of the enduring land that Smith has managed to reproduce for us.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2016
Alexander McCall Smith's stories are perfect for when one is tired of reading. You read his gently-paced books secure in the knowledge that, even though there may be moments of mild drama, nothing very horrible will happen and everything will be alright in the end. The solution to one of the mysteries was obvious from the start, but you do not expect intricate plots from ASM; the charm of ASM's books lies in the humanity of his writing, the goodness of the characters and the beauty of the setting. Best read with a cup of (bush) tea and slice of cake in hand.
February 5, 2018
This is a book about mistaken impressions. Everybody seems to make one, some regret theirs, but others are too arrogant to admit they can be wrong. It's not the best book in the series, but there are some insights that are valuable. Mr. Matekoni shows his weakness by continuing to enable Charlie, but finally admits to himself that he is no detective. Now, if he would just stand up to Mma Potokwane, but then Mma Ramotswe enables her as well. Strengths and weaknesses make the world of the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency go round.
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