Tears of the Giraffe

More from the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency

By: Alexander McCall Smith

Narrated by: Lisette Lecat

Length: 7 hrs and 50 mins

Publisher's summary

In this thoroughly entertaining book, the best-selling, critically acclaimed author of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency continues the story of Mma "Precious" Ramotswe, the clever proprietor of the only detective agency in all of Botswana.

Now engaged to Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni, Mma Ramotswe must contend with the hostility of her fianci's unscrupulous maid, who quickly begins plotting the disintegration of the arrangement. Then an American woman asks for help to learn the truth behind her son's disappearance in Africa, and Mma Ramotswe has all the troubles she can handle.

Part detective story, part comedy of manners and part African travelogue, Tears of the Giraffe is an indisputable joy.

Listen to the other titles in the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series.

©2000 Alexander McCall Smith (P)2003 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

"I haven't read anything with such unalloyed pleasure for a long time." (The Sunday Telegraph)

Excellent as expected!

Would you listen to Tears of the Giraffe again? Why?

Not only is the story interesting, but the pace is an unusual combination of casual, as though meandering down a pathway, and that suspenseful curiosity that pulls you forward. The rich and lovely voice and accent capture you, taking you directly to Botswana...! Charming!!

Tears of the Giraffe

Finished listening with tears. This was an excellent book. Looking forward to the next one.

A wonderful journey!

Enchanting and wholesome. I enjoyed every minute of this book. The performance was outstanding. I highly recommend the series

Another Great Book in this series.

I love this series. I think the narration has something to do with it. Lisette Lecat is perfect.
I lived/worked in Kenya as a young white American doctor and have many, many fond memories of my travels there and throughout Africa.
Even without this, I think the tales of the #1 Ladies Detective Agency as well as Speedy Motors, the orphans and the receptionist who scored 97% will stay with you long after you finish these books.
I dare you to listen to one and not want to purchase the next!
Definitely worth the credit!

not as good as the first

I have read the book twice. so I definitely enjoyed it. my perception, however, is that is was most definitely written by a "white man in Africa," which is what the people in Botswana say when an expat brings their morality to bear. yes, AMS, the author does attempt to carry the female perspective and the African perspective, but at times, it is disingenuous.

Africa is starting to feel like home . . .

The story, as well as the narration, in Tears of the Giraffe are excellent. It's been a while since I listened to the first book in the series, and as soon as I started this one, it was like meeting up with an old friend again. It's hard to explain how one can become completely engrossed in a culture and place that they've never been, but that's exactly what happens in this series. The quiet love and respect between Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni and Mma Ramotswe is so sweet. The "old" African ways, the heart of Mma Ramotswe toward her detective cases, and Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni's love of engines in his garage. All I can say is that this series is so DIFFERENT, so refreshing, and such a blessing to the human spirit, that I can't wait to start the next one.

Will Mma Ramotswe get a diamond ring?

Who was your favorite character and why?

Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni was my favorite character because he is so genuine and humble and honest and compassionate. Also, he truly respects and cherishes Mma Ramotswe.

Have you listened to any of Lisette Lecat’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Equally as good.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Absolutely! With all of this series, one wants to find out what will happen and how it will happen. Often there are unexpected turns of plot. Also, there is quite a bit of philosophy to mull over. But, if you are not fond of mulling, or just not in the mood, the situations and conversations in the book are delightful and engaging enough for you to just play the part of audience.

Any additional comments?

I find it interesting that many ethical and spiritual questions are raised in these books. I have had quite a lot of food for thought as I read through the series!

Great story in the series

Very good book. Precious is engaged and her husband to be has a very unlikeable house keeper. But no one can defeat Precious. Listening to her tackle the problem of the rude conniving house keeper is entertaining. Well written and beautifully performed.

Great to Re-read/listen.

I really enjoyed this second read.

Alexander McCall Smith weaves the detective work of the NO. 1 Ladies Detective Agency in with so many other social discussions. He does an excellent job of setting forth the thoughts and feelings of the women in this series. Always true to the character and incredibly lovely people, believing in the best to be done and accomplished to help others.

Ms. Lizette Lecat does an excellent job narrating this book and truly brings the culture and personalities to life. Thank you! Well done!

I would recommend this book along with all of the previous books in the series. Enjoy!

The narrator has grown on me.

I've really enjoyed and warmed up to this series. The narrator has really gotten into her groove. Different dialects, male/female different ages...doesn't matter. She nails it.
The story itself is excellent. Very entertaining.
Just to warn you, this series has 20 books in it so you have a lot to listen to and enjoy, but you may burn a lot of your credits.