365 Days of Books

I giggled when I saw Tears of the Giraffe labelled as "Mystery/Thriller" at the bookstore. The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series is the epitome of lowkey mystery with no thriller at all. In some parts of the world there is a heat that settles over the middle of the day. During that time of day you might lounge in the shade and watch the slow motion activities of those neighbours who insist on being out and about. This series feels like that sort of time and place. Every mystery plays out at a measured, respectful pace; there are no great surprises just foibles and failings of human beings exposed (or not) with a regard for the people involved. No lurid sex, no outstanding violence here.

It is a great series but very light; a 220 page book may take only an hour to read. At $11.95 for a paperback copy that is expensive reading. I got this particular book at the thrift store for .80 so if you are looking for a bargain keep your eyes open.