In the second of The Cumnock Tryst’s series of online workshops, a part of the A Musical Celebration of the Coalfields community opera project, Alexander will be on hand to share his own experience with 50 lucky aspiring writers on 7 October from 7.30pm. With a writing career spanning most of his adult life (and sitting alongside […]

The world premiere of the quite beautiful  ‘Ninian’s Gift’, composed by Tom Cunningham with words by our own Alexander McCall Smith, has taken place online as part of the Wigtown Book Festival. ‘Ninian’s Gift’ reflects on the lives of early Scottish saints, including St Ninian who came by sea to Whithorn in the 4th century. Some […]

Enjoy a Crime Reader’s Guide to The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series – quotes and insights and all the joy of Botswana and Precious Ramotswe. One not to be missed whether you are new to the series or have read every one of these books. The twenty-first book in this series, How to Raise an Elephant, is out now with a […]

The long wait is over. How to Raise an Elephant, the 21st book in the global hit series, The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, is published today (3 September 2020). In this strange, Covid-19 dominated period, spirits can be low. But catch up with Mma Ramotswe in Botswana and the sun will be shining wherever you […]

  How to Raise an Elephant, the 21st book in The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, has a new cover look – and it is gorgeous!   Diane Rendle is a modern colourist. Her painting is warm, vibrant, and filled with life. When I saw the painting she had done for How to Raise an Elephant […]