YA Paranormal

Moved to new URL

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 18:51:00 +0000

Please note that this blog has moved to www.ciaraknight.wordpress.com

Friday Fiction

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:01:00 +0000

Today on Friday Fiction I'll be talking about Don't Judge a girl by Her Cover by Ally Carter.

Even though this is book three of the Gallaher Girls series, it was the first I’ve read.

Ally Carter has a strong middle grade voice. This book was Harry Potter meets James Bond. I love all the secret passages and school halls they are hanging out in. The characterization is great and the Main character is believable and three dimensional.

Of course, there is always a boy involved in a good middle grade series and the mysterious Zach does not disappoint. Who wouldn’t go for a guy that has a parachute in his back pack, so that when he jumps from a train barreling down tracks across a ravine he survives? Hot!

She had fantastic one-liners. Classic teenage talk mixed with Bond lingo, and more memorable than “I’ll be back.” Okay, showing my age now. LOL

This book was full of everything a female middle grade reader could want. Also, parental thumbs up for content. I look forward to reading more from Ally Carter.

Oh, forgot to mention. I met her at the RWA National Conference and she’s EXTREMELY nice.

Next week on Friday Fiction I'll be starting a three week discussion on MokingJay by Suzanne Collins.

Goodreads.com a Reader's Perspective

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 04:01:00 +0000

Today I have Julie talking about Goodreads.com. I've asked her to specifically mention her view on authors networking on this website.

Welcome, Julie!
*********************************************************************************
Hi everyone, it's great to be here.

I love Goodreads.com. It is a great forum for people to share their love of books and the writers who bring them to us. Goodreads.com gives you the ability to create different bookshelves to catalog all of the books you have already read, want to read, and are currently reading. You can also categorize the books further into any bookshelf you like. It is completely unique to your personality. The site also allows you to add friends and share your bookshelves so you and your friends can see what you are reading along with all the books you have already read. It can be as interactive as you like it to be. You can share books and swap books. There are so many ways to use the site.

There are a lot of authors out there you can follow and keep up with. It gives you the chance to have a closer relationship with them. I am not familiar with the marketing aspect. I have never come across an author trying to peddle their book to me. I like the idea that the authors on the site are available to me.

Goodreads.com is a great place to go for reviews. The reviews range from simple, the reader either likes the book or did not like the book, to very in depth and insightful. There are also spoiler alerts to let you know so you do not read something that will ruin the book for you. It is also a great place to post reviews. The reviews stay a part of your page so years later when you have forgotten what the book was like you have a record of your thoughts! I love this aspect. It is journaling for your books!

I also want to mention the giveaways. There are tons of giveaways. You just sign up and wait until you are notified. I have won two books from Goodreads.com. Both of the books came in the mail in about 2 weeks. There are no strings attached. They may ask that you review the book after you have read it but it is not necessary.

If you are interested in discussions, there are tons of groups you can join on Goodreads.com. There is a group for anything! Most of them anyone can join. It is a great way to share your thoughts and ideas, to hear what others think, and to ask any questions you may have about what ever it is you are interested in.

All in all, I feel that Goodreads.com is an awesome place to share my love of reading.

Julie

Friday Fiction

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 12:29:00 +0000

For book club this month we read Ten Little Indians by Agatha Christie. I’m not a fan of mysteries, but I found it to be a quick read. I would have preferred more clues, so the reader could be part of the investigative process. Then again, it kept my attention looking for clues that weren’t there. In the end, I did guess who was involved, but didn’t know how or why.

For September book club we’ll be reading Summer at Tiffany’s, a biography about the first two woman to work at Tiffany’s in New York.
This week I’m reading Don’t Judge a girl by Her Cover by Ally Carter. I had the pleasure of meeting her at the RWA conference, and let me tell you, she’s a nice lady. I’m looking forward to reporting on that next Friday.
What are you reading? Do you have a book recommendation? I love to read books based on recommendations!

Coming up next week: Wednesday Julie Helligrath will be guest blogging here about Goodreads.com, a reader’s perspective. Tomorrow Emery Lee will be guest blogging about her Perilous Journey at http://newkidonthewritersblock.blogspot.com/ Hope you can join us!

Characters—They’re everywhere

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:10:00 +0000

Having trouble developing three dimensional characters? Stop and take a look around you. So many interesting and unique characters interact with you daily. Co-workers, neighbors, friends, and relatives are full of personality traits that can inflate your flat character into a life-size hero or heroine that leaps off the page. You can even find some amazing villain traits. It all depends on who’s around you. Admit it, there is always that situation where someone stabbed someone in the back, or did a random act of kindness. I for one would love to get the shirt that warns people to be nice or they’ll appear in my next novel.

So, beyond the obvious what are some everyday happenings you can bring into your characterization? Recently I’ve struggled with a MG hero that didn’t jump off the page for me. All the character development question sheets and bio’s weren’t helping.

Last night my son showed me how to breathe more life into this hero. Here’s an example of a social interaction with my two younger sons that lead me to the character trait I’d been looking for.

My four-year-old hasn’t been able to sleep the last few nights because of fear of spiders. Here is how my six-year-old son handled getting his brother to sleep.

Son: “I’ll take care of it mom.”

Me: “That’s sweet, but honey I don’t know what you can do.”

Son: “Just come upstairs. I’ll call you to tuck him in. He’ll be in bed waiting for
you.”

Me: “Okay honey, I’ll be up in a few.”

Yeah right. If I can’t get him to sleep there is no way he can.

Fifteen minutes later.

Son: “Mom, we’re ready!”

Me: “Okay, coming.”

I walk up the stairs and find my six-year-old tucking my four-year-old into bed, both with a smile. I immediately check the room for some sort of contraband but found nothing. I tuck my youngest in and pull the door closed—well leaving a two finger space open—behind me without any complaint.

Me: “How’d you do it?”

Son: “He was scared of spiders getting him in the night.”

Mom: “Yes”

Son: “Today at school I learned to draw an owl.”

Son points to picture of an owl taped to his brother’s door.

Son: “Owls eat spiders. It will protect him tonight while he sleeps.”

My son the Sheldon (Big Bang Theory) showed me how to build a stronger MG hero. A character that uses logic to overcome obstacles.

Go team Sheldon!

Do you have anything that recently happened that could bring a character to life? If so, share. I’d love to know how real life people have influenced your characters. Do you have your own secret way of developing stronger charactes?

Writing update

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 01:56:00 +0000

Things have been crazy in my writing life the last few months, but in a good way. I attended my first ever RWA national conference, which you can read about in an earlier post dated August 2nd.

I’ve also joined an amazing group blog http://newkidonthewritersblock.blogspot.com/. I post two Saturday’s a month. My next post will be a spotlight on Emery Lee’s publishing journey on August 21st. Some might ask why I’ve joined a blog if I already have one. Well, there are several reasons, but mainly it was an amazing opportunity to concentrate solely on the craft of writing. In a group blog I’ve got fellow bloggers that provide support and they post about experiences I can relate to at my current stage of my writing career.
Over the past week I’ve started submitting my current novel, RISE FROM DARKNESS.

I’ve also been working on critiques for others, and writing book II of the series. Of course, I also have to fit time in for studying the craft. The current book I’m working on is BREAK INTO FICTION by Mary Buckham and Dianna Love. These ladies are amazing instructors and I hope to someday attend their plotting cruise. Four days at sea with fellow writers doing nothing but plotting my book. A writers dream! No kids, no phone, nothing but writing.

Last on the writing front, I'm working on new material for in-services at the middle schools. I’m also hoping to expand into high schools. I’ll be posting about those in a few days.

It’s time to go study. Enjoy your evening.

Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 20:21:00 +0000

The Highest Stakes by Emery Lee

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I first picked up “The Highest Stakes” it was with great trepidation that I began reading. Considering I read and write Young Adult fiction, the sheer weight of the book sent me running in the other direction. Oh, and not to mention the fact that I know NOTHING about horses, old England, or racing. However, I’d seen such high praise about the book I decided to give it a try.

With limited time I planned to read fifty pages a day. By day two I’d completed the book. There’s nothing like starting a book with meager expectations and being blown away by the end.

The pace forced me to turn the pages, the characters wouldn’t let me put the book down, and the storyline tugged at my heart. Twists, turns, forbidden love, and danger filled all 500 and something pages. “The Highest Stakes” is a must read and not just for lovers of historical romance or horse enthusiasts. It’s a book for everyone who enjoys a fantastic read.
Tamara
www.tamaradhanson.com

View all my reviews >>

New Kid on the Writers Block group blog

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 11:27:00 +0000

I wanted to let everyone know I’ve been invited to join a group writing blog, http://newkidonthewritersblock.blogspot.com/. It’s a blog of writers who are persuing their dream of publication. There will be posts on writing resources, information, contests, and so much more.

I’ll be blogging twice a month about various writing topics. During those two days I will refer everyone to the New Kid on the Writers Block blog. Today I posted an introduction and my next day of the month will be 8/21/2010.

Hope you get a chance to go over and say “hi” today. They are a great group!

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 01:18:00 +0000

Thanks to my friend and crit partner I have some new photos from the Rita ceremonies at the 30th RWA conference.
I discovered during the Rita awards that my all time favorite author, Francine Rivers, is in the Rita Hall of Fame.
It was a pleasure to watch some of the winners accept their awards. I couldn't believe how many times they brought tears to my eyes. One particular acceptance speech had everyone in the audience boo hooing like babies. It was truly moving!

The line was down the hall and wrapped around a few times. I couldn't believe we all had seats by the time we reached the ballroom. But we did.

To our surprise we had chicken! LOL. All three meals we had chicken with different sauces and veggies. It became a joke. Don't get me wrong it was good, just a little variety at that point would have been great. BTW - I still think RWA pulled of the impossible by relocating our conference. A big shout out for everyone who was involved in the planning.

Our new amazing friends from Seattle welcomed us to their table with open arms. Talk about a fantastic group of ladies. Can't wait to visit y'all some day!

Anna Alexander from Seattle had great insight into contests, industry news, and Paranormal books. Thanks for the amazing conversation and explanation of what was going on at the Rita ceremony.

RWA conference 2010 from a newbie perspective

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 21:41:00 +0000

A first timer’s look at the GRW conference

Steampunk fashion, workshops, luncheons … author signings, LOTS of free books, awards … costume contests, snake attack in the lobby, and so much more.
Yes, I said snake in Swan lobby. That could only happen to me. I’m just sorry I didn’t get a picture of the critter slithering toward me, or a recording of the squeal that escaped my lips.

Hildie McQueen and I nervously approached the mass of people at the first luncheon. To our amazement, the food was fantastic and the speaker even better. This was my first opportunity to hear Nora Roberts speak and let me tell you, she’s AMAZING. I left that lunch with a new determination and attitude. Thank you, Nora.
Hildie and I spoke about a few things related to conference and this is what we had to say.
What was the highlight of the conference for you?
Hildie: Getting to meet bestselling authors and receiving a full request from an editor.
Tammie: Nora Robert’s speech and receiving a full request form an agent I absolutely loved!
What was your biggest surprise at the conference?
Hildie: How exciting the atmosphere is.
Tammie: How amazing the people are. Everyone is friendly and supportive. And the SNAKE! He wasn’t that friendly, just slithery.
If there was anything else you could have at a conference, what would it be?
Hildie: Author mingling luncheon instead of having a program.
Tammie: Some more master/Pro classes. Although, I feel like there was something for everyone at the conference, I’d like to have attended more craft workshops that dig deeper into concepts.
What author(s) were you most excited to meet? Was there one you wanted to but didn’t get the chance?
Hildie: Lyndsay Sands wasn’t here. Lisa Kleypass – most gracious and amazing author she met.
Tammie: Kelley Armstrong, and I must say she is NICE in person. I don’t believe there is a conceited bone in her body.

So that’s the perspective from two newbie conference attendees.
What did you think of conference? How many times have you been? Was this conference different in any way?

CONTESTS AND CLASSES AND BLOGGING, OH MY!

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 22:27:00 +0000

How many writers out there have time to write?

Summer is here and with it brings the kiddos home. Writing time becomes a minimum. After taking care of the family, getting contest entries ready, completing class homework, there’s little time left for actual writing.

To help push my word count this month I joined an online boot camp and found a great support network. We run sprints online and encourage one another. It’s a great platform for keeping on track. The group at www.savvyauthors.com is great bunch of gals!

Meanwhile, I’m soliciting for votes in a contest. So if you have time go to http://www.savvyauthors.com/vb/content.php?242-First-Step-Contest and click #59 "Four demons down ... but how many remained?" The first round will end on June 7th so vote soon. After that a new round of back cover blurbs will start. If I make the top thirty I’ll have a new link for voting starting June 14th.  Thanks to all of you who have already voted, I’m in seventh place right now.

I’ve also been working on revisions to book one of the Fallen Angels trilogy. With two partial requests and one full request I’m one step closer. I’m working on writing book two now and hope to plot book three.

So, I guess despite all the ciaos I still find time to write, which is important if I ever want to reach my ultimate goal of publication.

Short Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Sun, 23 May 2010 13:21:00 +0000

Summer is here! I’m sure the celebrating has commenced.

It’s hard to believe our county is already out of school. Next year will be crazy with the new school calendar.

I want to know how the students and parents feel about all the budget cuts. Did anyone lose teachers they feel are invaluable to the school? Will the cut in bus routes impact you? How about the decrease in amount of school days?

If you’re not familiar with the Cobb County school calendar next year. Take a look here. Feel free to share how your county school calendar compares to ours. Are we the only ones down to 175 days in a school year?

I know some of you prefer to e-mail your comments to me and that’s fine. Just let me know if I can post for you. If not I’ll write a general consensus based on e-mails I receive.

Movie Quote Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:41:00 +0000

Here's a flashback from the 80's.
What movie is this quote from and who said it?

The only thing we serve here is tongue! You boys like tongue?

Last weeks quote: Bridget from Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

Movie Quote Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:35:00 +0000

I'm going to challenge you today. Who knows what movie this is from?

"Single-minded till the point of recklessness."

Tuesday’s Teachings and Author Q&A

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 20:13:00 +0000

It was such a pleasure to meet all of you last week. I never expected to meet so many talented sixth grade authors. I’m glad you all enjoyed the activities and the excerpt I read form my current work in progress.

Sorry Ian, hope you didn’t mind breaking the egg. J Apparently it was the highlight of everyone’s day. Well, next to all the candy.

Several of you asked about the flash fiction writing contest. As soon as the details are worked out
I will post them on my blog. So keep checking back.

Instead of me answering all of your great questions you wrote in your thank you notes, I’ve decided to ask some fellow authors to answer them. Check back over the next couple of days to discover what other authors have to share with you.

During class, I read aloud a scene about a car crash. Several of you asked what the title of the book was and where you could find it. The current working title is Rise from Darkness and I’m afraid you can’t find it in stores right now because it’s still a work in progress.

Here are some of the questions you all wrote in your thank you notes. I will submit my answers in the comments section.

1) Did you want to be a writer when you were a kid?
2) How do you stick with an idea to make that long of a book or novel?
3) Does it matter if your handwriting isn’t that good to be a writer?
4) Who are some of your favorite authors?
5) What books would you recommend to me if I really enjoy mystery/paranormal?
6) When you write a story do you have it in your head or do you just write as you go?
7) I’m stuck on a part in my book, how do I get unstuck?
8) How long does it take to write a book?
9) Where do your ideas come from?

If your question doesn’t appear above, please feel free to post it in the comments section!

Movie Quote Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 15:30:00 +0000

The answer to last weeks quote was: Harry Potter and the Sorcer's Stone.

Anyone know who said it?

Congratulations E you got it. Yes, it was Dumbledore who said it. Great Job!

This week's movie quote:

You know, your mood swings are kinda giving me whiplash.

Anyone know what movie this is from. If so, post a comment.

Wacky Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 20:49:00 +0000

Are they dancing or fighting? I'm not sure.

Hint for Movie Monday: We spoke about this movie during the in-service on Monday.

Mixed Up Movie Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:17:00 +0000

Okay, I’m calling it mixed up movie Monday because it’s Tuesday. But due to the in-service at McClure middle school yesterday I wanted to post Tuesday’s Teachings on Monday. Now that we have that straight here is the movie quote.

“It takes a great deal of courage to stand up to your enemies, but a great deal more to stand up to your friends.”

Post a comment if you know what movie this is from.

McClure Middle School

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 21:41:00 +0000

Today I spoke to eight sixth grade classes at McClure middle school about descriptive writing. It was amazing to see how many young adult writers are out there. Some of the descriptive answers given were truly astounding. What an amazing group of students!
I promised several students that I would post some links to flash fiction websites. Here are a few. Please remember to get your parent’s permission before logging onto one of these sites.

http://www.flashfictiononline.com/f20080301-just-before-recess-jim-van-pelt.html

http://www.fictionfactor.com/guests/flash.html

http://www.everydayfiction.com/

Leave a comment about what you liked or disliked about the descriptive writing in-service. Let me know how I can improve or what not to change before I go to another class.

Can anyone tell me what the goals or characteristics of descriptive writing are? Leave a comment if you remember.

Also, if you are interested in submitting a book review, movie review or flash fiction for publication on this blog leave a comment or e-mail me. You can ask Mrs. Burlock or Mrs. Williams for my e-mail address.

Looking forward to chatting with y’all soon!

Ms. Tammie

Here's to 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 17:13:00 +0000

Who made 2009 resolutions? More importantly who achieved them?

I’m more of a planner than a resolutionist. I start the year off with expectations of what I hope to accomplish over the upcoming 365 days. Last year, I planned to attend my first writing conference, attend workshops, and develop my craft. Also, of course, I promised myself I would finish another novel, this time not tossing it to the side the minute it was complete. Well, I completed it and I’m sticking to my plan. The first query will be going out to an agent next week. *crossing fingers*

Now what’s the plan for 2010? Hard work. Although the book is complete, and editing has been completed, there is always room for improvement. All those invaluable critiques I received from my pals at Scribophile and Futuristic, Fantasy, and Paranormal groups will be utilized in my revisions. My plan also includes writing every day, judging competitions, sending out queries, joining PRO and attending the GRW conference in Tennessee this year. I’m already signed up for a workshop in January and a class in February.

What’s going to happen with my blog? I’m going to line up some guest bloggers, write book reviews and get truly serious about networking and helping other writers.

Here’s to 2010, may your plan become a reality in the next year.

The Hunger Games

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 22:40:00 +0000

Russell Crowe move over, Katniss Evergreen just entered the arena.

Gladiator games meet reality TV in this futuristic, young adult tale.

The United States no longer exists. North America is broken into thirteen districts governed by the Capital. When district thirteen revolts they are destroyed and The Hunger Games are created. This is a reminder for the remaining twelve districts to never challenge the authority of the Capital again. Every year a lottery takes place in all twelve districts in which each child from the age of twelve to eighteen must participate.

Practically an orphan, Katniss hunts illegally in the woods to provide for her family. The one person in the world she cares for is her younger sister, Prim. When Prim’s name is pulled from the lottery, Katniss steps in and takes her place.

There are twenty four contestants, from each district, one male and one female. They must battle it out until only one survivor remains. Of course, that means she must kill someone from her own district. The other contestant, Peeta, had saved her family from starvation after her father’s death. Can she really kill a person who saved her family? Will she die at the hand of the brutal District one and two contestants who train for the games since birth? Or will she go mad knowing she is part of the entertainment for the loathsome inhabitants of the Capital watching the bloodbath from their TVs.

Suzanne Collins created a world and characters that my twelve year old son could not turn away from. He completed the three hundred and seventy nine page book in a few days. I’d like to say it didn’t hook me, but I read it in two sittings. My son and I will be waiting in line September 1st for the sequel. Yes, she left us hanging. I highly recommend this book. It’s an A- for me.

Back to School

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 20:26:00 +0000

I'm sad summer is over. It seemed to fly by this year, but I am excited to get back to writing and blogging. Two out of the three boys will be in school! We had some of the most amazing trips this summer in our RV. I'm sad it will be in storage until September.

Over the summer I completed several short stories and essays. I will be submitting these over the next few weeks to online literary magazines. Starting August 31st I will be taking Patricia Kay's Novel Writing I class. We've already exchanged several emails, she seems to be an amazing teacher and writer. Oh, and I will be trying tennis lessons. I'll let you know how that goes.

My husband and I are preparing for our trip to England. I hope to find new inspiration for upcoming short stories, flash fiction, and novels. Oh, and have some quality alone time with my husband.

In October, I won't just be attending children's parties and school functions. I will be attending my first writing conference, Moonlight and Magnolias. A dear writing friend of mine, Belinda Peterson finaled in The Maggies. I know she is going to take first in the Inspirational category this year.

I hope everyone enjoys their first week of school.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 22:45:00 +0000

I am excited to announce my first publication!

My first short work of fiction is published in the July issue of Christian Fiction Online magazine. This is a great magazine for all Christians, especially writers.

"A Place for Connor" is a short story that takes you on a mom's journey to find the right school for her special needs son. I hope you enjoy, and please post a comment here on my blog about it.
To view the article please click here.

To view the magazine and all the amazing things it has to offer, please click here.

If pink could talk

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 01:28:00 +0000

This was a fun little short story I wrote for a class. Thought some of you moms might enjoy it.

Mommy and daddy were so happy with the news, they painted me in a pale Dogwood hue on the walls of the nursery, representing sweet innocence and comfort. Hand embroidered roseate bunnies adorn a plush soft Peruvian pearl canopy draped over the cradle. I feel really important at night when daddy smiles down over me and gives butterfly kisses, tucking me around his pride and joy. Growing up a little I provide a cute design of Panglossian polka-dots and Fuschsia flowers, scattered on a dress that mommy made, with tender loving care. I swirl about as the little girl plays spin around the room modeling for her daddy, punch colored ribbon’s from a barrette sweep across her porcelain face.

At eleven the little girl changed her walls to my shade of Resounding Rose with trim of Coral Island. At thirteen she is sent to wash her face when daddy sees his little girl wearing a bolder version of me, a hot Hema on her lips and Bold Brick blush. At seventeen I hear mom crying when she sees the handmade prom dress, in my Quaint Peche shade, tossed to the floor. A stomping demand for a store bought prom dress with my bold Pulchritudinous hot pink seems to upset her more. Turning around the room she models the plunging neck line with Romance Rose trim dress, but daddy’s face turns a shade of Mellow Coral. The night she leaves for prom daddy finds mommy in her Resounding Rose room grasping the hand embroidered Peruvian pearl canopy, she hand stitched me into, for her baby all those years ago.

The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency

noreply@blogger.com (Tamara D Hanson) — Thu, 14 May 2009 02:53:00 +0000

This first novel in Alexander McCall Smith's widely acclaimed The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series tells the story of the cunning Ramotswe, who is drawn to her profession to "help people with problems in their lives." Mma Ramotswe’s often humorous assessments of the failings of men, her unflinching struggle for gender equity, her keen love for her country and its people, and the warmth, generosity, and intelligence of her expansive spirit made Mma Ramotswe an original and endearing protagonist.

Breaking out of the traditional American mystery genre mold, Mma Ramotswe’s detective agency concentrated on more ordinary everyday cases. They ranged from exposing a freeloader posing as a father, to discovering whether or not a young Indian girl has a boyfriend, to determining the legitimacy of a worker's injury claim, to revealing the real reason behind a doctor's inconsistent performance. But the case that tugs at her heart, and lands her in danger, is a missing eleven-year-old boy, who may have been snatched by witchdoctors. During the investigation process Mma Ramotswe comes face-to-face with one of Africa's most frightful traditions—the use of human bones in the making of muti (medicine).

In general the book club agreed that The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency was an enjoyable and easy read. The book was written by a man in a woman’s point of view. Some of the ladies in the book club stated they could tell this book was written by a man based on how sterile Mma Ramotswe could be at times. While others thought her character was perfectly developed into a strong independent Botswana woman.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this book was the culture. Instantly the reader understands the segregation of the many regions of Africa.

How did you feel about the plot, characters, pace and structure of the story? Feel free to post your comments.