Like another reviewer, I absolutely loved, loved, loved these books! I received the 5-box set for Christmas (after reading the 1st novel and becoming hooked) and have not been able to put them down since.

These books offer a very charming look into a side of Africa one rarely hears about. I eagerly await the next novel, said to be out in April 07'. Mr. McCall Smith is quite the storyteller.

This little detective book isn't exactly a novel in the traditional sense, it's more of a collection of stories or cases that Precious, the detective solves.

Precious is the main character and her voice and perspective are the best parts of the book. She's funny, has strong opinions and a strong moral code.

In comparison to the tradional mystery novel, No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency is much more literary than the usual fare. It's also less mysterious and slower paced.

Mma Ramostwe captures the hearts of her readers. Some in my reading group who had been to Botwsana commented on the authenticity of the setting, customs, and characters. In fact they're reading the rest of the series. Alexander McCall Smith obviously knows, understands and sympathizes with his subject.

I never would have ''read'' this novel; listening to it however is something else again. It makes for a wonderful audio book. It is the story (or stories) of the main heroine and her family and friends with the occasional detecitve story mixed in for good measure. The ''msytery'' element does keep you guessing. It is greatly enjoyable to hear the background stories of Ma Ramotswe and her life in Africa. I purchased the 2nd volume before even finishing the first and a coworker is hooked on this sereies as well....she bought the other CDS so now we can share! Very enjoyable audio experience and the narrator has a mellow, rich voice that is very easy to listen too and adds alot of character to the telling of the tales. Highly recommend this series.

I found this book in my search for a new mystery series to devour. Although I had some reservations about the book in general (it was clearly not a Lisa Scottoline, Jeffrey Deaver, John Sanford type novel), I decided to give it a try. Wow--it was so much better than I expected. Is it a mystery book? Yes. . . well, sort of. It has some of the elements of a mystery, but is far from a thriller. This book is a window into the human spirit. The book is interesting, and masterfully written. If you are searching for a fast-paced action thriller, this is not the book for you. If you are open to a leisurely stroll into a new world, this book is one of the best I have read.