We're thrilled to be presenting one of Wordfest's most beloved authors and raconteurs to celebrate the 20th book in the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series. Expertly and gently crafted by Alexander McCall Smith, To the Land of Long Lost Friends reminds us of the value of tried and true wisdom and to never judge a book by its cover. This event includes an on-stage interview, followed by an audience Q&A and book signing.
To the Land of Long Lost Friends
In the newest book in the widely beloved No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, Precious Ramotswe takes on a case for a childhood acquaintance but her inquiries will require her to be even more delicate than usual.
Mma Ramotswe reconnects with an old friend who has been having problems with her daughter. Though Precious feels compelled to lend a hand, she discovers that getting involved in family affairs is always a delicate proposition. Her fiancé, Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni finds himself embroiled in familial drama as well, when one of his clients asks for help evicting an unwanted houseguest who turns out to be the man’s own brother.
The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series is a literary confection of such gossamer deliciousness that one feels it can only be good for one. Fortunately, since texts aren’t cakes, there is no end to the pleasure that may be extracted from these books.” —The New York Times Book Review
What is The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series?
The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series began as a short story written for friends. The story soon took hold of its author and grew to one novel and then to many more. Now, with over 20 million copies sold in English and translations in 46 languages, the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series is one of the most successful and beloved in the world.
Precious Ramotswe, a cheerful woman of traditional build, is the founder of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency in Gaborone, Botswana. Since her first appearance in 1998, Mma Ramotswe has established herself as one of the most famous private detectives in world-literature.
With her friends by her side, Mma Ramostwe navigates her cases and her personal life with her innate wisdom, good humour, and the occasional cup of tea.
Alexander McCall Smith
Alexander McCall Smith, often referred to as "Sandy," is one of the world’s most prolific authors. For many years he was a professor of Medical Law and worked in universities in the United Kingdom and abroad before turning his hand to writing fiction. He has written and contributed to more than 100 books including specialist academic titles, short story collections, and a number of immensely popular children’s books. His works have been translated into more than 40 languages and have been best sellers throughout the world. He lives in Scotland.