Sonderbooks Book Review of

The Cowgirl Aunt of Harriet Bean

by Alexander McCall Smith

performed by Charlotte Parry

The Cowgirl Aunt of Harriet Bean

by Alexander McCall Smith

Reviewed May 7, 2008.
Recorded Books, New York, 2007. 1 compact disc. 1.25 hours.

It's always fun to listen to a British narrator, and it was a treat to listen to Charlotte Parry talking about the exploits of Harriet's detective aunts, Aunt Thessalonika and Aunt Japonica. In this book, Harriet learns that she has a sixth aunt she hadn't known about, Aunt Formica. Aunt Formica grew up on a ranch in America, and is a skilled cowgirl, but she has asked her detective sisters for help, and Harriet gets to come along.

The story is fun, reminding me of a traditional tall tale. I love Alexander McCall Smith's stories, but do think he does a little better when he writes about places where he has lived. This story set in the American West struck me as highly stereotypical. I certainly hope none of his readers would ever try to deal with a rattlesnake in the way that happens here!

All the same, this is a fun story and a quick read (or listen). This could be an excellent choice for a child just ready to read chapter books on their own. It's not too long and daunting, but does have some excitement, as Harriet and her capable aunts deal with rustlers.