The Good Husband of Zebra Drive

by: Alexander McCall Smith

Published by: Anchor Books/Random House

Reviewed by Carrie Padgett

Alexander McCall Smith is a deceptively good writer. His books are simple and simply read. But there is a texture and depth to the prose that is not dashed off. The Good Husband of Zebra Drive continues this author’s of straightforward stories set in the richness of Africa.

Things are changing at The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency in Gabarone, Botswana. Mma Makutsi is engaged and doesn’t really need to work any more. This brings a subtle shift in office dynamics as Mma Makutsi is tempted to take on new challenges. Mma Ramotswe promotes Mma Makutsi to Associate Detective.

And a shift is underway at Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors. The apprentice, Charlie, has an opportunity to go into business for himself. Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni takes on an investigation of his own while his wife, Precious Ramotswe, and her associate are busy with other cases. All the matters are resolved, although not all are satisfactory to the clients or the detectives.

Along the way, everyone learns a lesson. Whether it’s grace and mercy, being thankful for your blessings, or learning to be content to bloom where you are planted, McCall Smith draws each character’s story with tenderness.

It would be easy to paint Botswana with the brush of trivialization, but the author’s love and respect for the land and its people shine through every word. I’ve never been to Africa but I feel the pull it has on him and others.

Precious Ramotswe and her family are characters rich in love, proud of their homeland, and anchored firmly to a culture where respect is valued and the worst you can say about someone is that they are rude.

We should all be so blessed.

Armchair Interviews says: The Good Husband of Zebra Drive is a very fine book indeed.

Author’s Web site: http://www.AlexanderMcCallSmith.co.uk/a>