The Great Hippopotamus Hotel

No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Book 25

De: Alexander McCall Smith

Narrado por: Bianca Amato

In this latest installment of Alexander McCall Smith’s beloved No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi take on an intriguing new case and uncover surprising truths.

In the rolling hills just outside Gaborone, surrounded by a grove of acacia trees, lies the Great Hippopotamus Hotel. With spacious rooms overlooking the Botswanan countryside and a fine and loyal staff, the hotel has served as a refuge to weary travelers for many years. But a sudden string of misfortunes threatens to ruin the hotel’s reputation. Food poisoning befalls an unlucky diner, laundry mysteriously disappears from the drying line, and a scorpion stings one of the guests. Mishap after mishap occurs, until it becomes apparent that these incidents are more than simple coincidences—something foul is afoot.

Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi are on the case to find out who could be responsible for these unfortunate events. Meanwhile, one of Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni’s most important clients has asked him to source a sports car, putting him in a ticklish position, as the man’s wife seems to be unaware of the purchase, and the client is taking great pains to keep it that way.

With a healthy dose of good humor and kindness, Mma Ramotswe and her associates must help restore the reputation of the hotel and prove that even the most difficult situations can be remedied with honesty and compassion.

©2024 Alexander McCall Smith (P)2024 Recorded Books

A simple story about life lessons found in the rich culture of Botswana

A great addition to the Number One Ladies Detective Series. As usual there is a mystery and a plentiful dash of Botswana warmth.

Wholly satisfying

I love all the installments of this series, but this was a particular favorite. I love the new narrator and did not go into this believing anyone could rival Lisette Lecat but before the end of the first chapter I was embraced in Mma Ramostswe’s sweet voice.

I really like that Mma Makutsi gets to play a starring roll in this book. The misdirection, the talking shoes and the delightful little boy that speaks to almost no one except her all kept me interested.

I was happy with the ending and as always the lesson of forgiveness. I look forward to adding this to my relisten library.

Hippo Hotel’s

Sweet & simple story set in Botswana. The narrator did an excellent job. Love the Ladies Detective series.

The Elephant can not akwsys be obvious

I loved everything: the pathos, drama, humor, exploration of human natue and it s chalkenges, exploration of a culure that is changing quickly and dramaticly

The charm.

So relieved that the new narrator is as wonderful as Lisette Lacat!
Excellent in every way. She has a very soothing delivery.

I can't wait for #26!!

I worry when the narrator is not the wonderful Lisset Lacat, but, Bianca Amato is absolutely wonderful!! The story, is, as always, delightful, and funny, and charming.
I hope Alexander McCall Smith keeps writing forever!!!

Engaging story

The story was engaging and the morality contained within was inspiring. It was enjoyable and entertaining.

Gentle and delightful

Beautiful voice and delightful characters and story line. The author has once again developed a great and ‘Precious’ story!

Another wonderful installment from the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency

The author once again brings us a story of humanity, compassion, and forgiveness beautifully read.

Great

Alexander McCall Smith has a gift for crafting book titles that stop you in your tracks. They pique your curiosity and compel you to dive into the pages to uncover their meanings. His current title, “The Great Hippopotamus Hotel,” is a perfect example. Other captivating titles in this series include “Tears of the Giraffe” and “A Song of Comfortable Chairs.” The hotel in this book becomes a metaphor for the author’s broader themes of finding joy in simplicity and meaning in the seemingly small details of life.

McCall Smith’s writing, as always, is rich with wit and wisdom. He has an exceptional ability to create an atmosphere of quiet, almost meditative humor. His descriptions of the African landscape, the local customs, and the interactions between the characters are infused with a sense of respect for the setting and its people. The story may not be fast-paced or plot-driven in the conventional sense. Its quiet beauty lies in its exploration of life’s small but significant moments. A perfect read for anyone in need of a little light-hearted escape with a touch of depth.

I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is eight hours and five minutes. Bianca Amato does a good job narrating the book.