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44 Scotland Street #15
Love in the Time of Bertie
The latest installment in the delightful 44 Scotland Street series finds all our favorite residents up to their usual hilarious hijinks.
In the microcosm of 44 Scotland Street, all of life's richness is found in the glorious goings-on of its residents. There's Domenica, whose anthropological training has honed her observations of her neighbors; Matthew, whose growing triplets are more than a handful; Bruce, whose challenge as ever is thinking of anything but himself; and Big Lou, who may just have found her shot at romance. And of course, there's young Bertie Pollock, whose starry-eyed explorations of Edinburgh's New Town are a touching reminder that life itself is an adventure and there's joy to be found wherever you choose to look.
In the microcosm of 44 Scotland Street, all of life's richness is found in the glorious goings-on of its residents. There's Domenica, whose anthropological training has honed her observations of her neighbors; Matthew, whose growing triplets are more than a handful; Bruce, whose challenge as ever is thinking of anything but himself; and Big Lou, who may just have found her shot at romance. And of course, there's young Bertie Pollock, whose starry-eyed explorations of Edinburgh's New Town are a touching reminder that life itself is an adventure and there's joy to be found wherever you choose to look.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2021
358 people are currently reading
805 people want to read
About the author
Alexander McCall Smith
669 books12.7k followersAlexander McCall Smith is the author of the international phenomenon The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, the Isabel Dalhousie Series, the Portuguese Irregular Verbs series, and the 44 Scotland Street series. He is professor emeritus of medical law at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and has served on many national and international bodies concerned with bioethics. He was born in what is now known as Zimbabwe and he was a law professor at the University of Botswana. He lives in Scotland. Visit him online at www.alexandermccallsmith.com, on Facebook, and on Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 297 reviews
November 24, 2021
This lovely, captivating book is the 15th in the 44 Scotland Street series, set in Edinburgh. It reunites the readers with its quirky, charming and annoying characters. I have read the entire delightful series, and this might be my favourite one so far. Written with wit and wisdom and containing a gentle, thought-provoking philosophy about life, the ability to change, love, friendship, community, art, admitting one's defects, and taking control.
Many of the characters are experiencing problems. Bertie is one of my favourite little boys in modern fiction. He learns he must spend three months in Aberdeen with his horrible mother. He is dismayed that he will be absent from his friends, schoolmates, loving grandmother, and weak-willed father, whom he adores. The narcissistic, conceited Bruce is part of a fraudulent real-estate scheme. What happens to him is pretty shocking. Angus, the painter, attends a lecture at a performance art festival. He is made to feel that the art of painting scenery and portraits is passe' and stale. He is beginning to think that he is now out of fashion as an artist. Sister Maria-Flore dei Flori de Montagna, the social-climbing nun, plays a more prominent role by dispensing her type of advice and wisdom to Bertie's father, Angus and Bruce. Big Lou has found the man of her dreams, a kind, attentive, professional strongman.
Problems appear to be resolved in the satisfying conclusion. I hope this doesn't mean the end of this wonderful series.
Many of the characters are experiencing problems. Bertie is one of my favourite little boys in modern fiction. He learns he must spend three months in Aberdeen with his horrible mother. He is dismayed that he will be absent from his friends, schoolmates, loving grandmother, and weak-willed father, whom he adores. The narcissistic, conceited Bruce is part of a fraudulent real-estate scheme. What happens to him is pretty shocking. Angus, the painter, attends a lecture at a performance art festival. He is made to feel that the art of painting scenery and portraits is passe' and stale. He is beginning to think that he is now out of fashion as an artist. Sister Maria-Flore dei Flori de Montagna, the social-climbing nun, plays a more prominent role by dispensing her type of advice and wisdom to Bertie's father, Angus and Bruce. Big Lou has found the man of her dreams, a kind, attentive, professional strongman.
Problems appear to be resolved in the satisfying conclusion. I hope this doesn't mean the end of this wonderful series.
April 11, 2022
There is only one thing I love more than a good series and that is a good, long series. At fifteen books 44 Scotland Street definitely fits that category.
There are several remarkable moments in Love in the Time of Bertie. Cringe worthy Bruce undergoes a life changing moment which has to be for the better. Big Lou seems to have met the man of her dreams. And best of all Bertie seems to have won, temporarily at least, over his awful mother.
I enjoy everything Alexander McCall Smith writes. He is an incredibly knowledgeable man and I am amazed at just how many books he has written. I do not believe he sleeps at all. I hope he keeps giving us more tales of Bertie for a long time yet.
There are several remarkable moments in Love in the Time of Bertie. Cringe worthy Bruce undergoes a life changing moment which has to be for the better. Big Lou seems to have met the man of her dreams. And best of all Bertie seems to have won, temporarily at least, over his awful mother.
I enjoy everything Alexander McCall Smith writes. He is an incredibly knowledgeable man and I am amazed at just how many books he has written. I do not believe he sleeps at all. I hope he keeps giving us more tales of Bertie for a long time yet.
May 15, 2025
Well, Woke Love happens all around the lonely, love-starved Bertie, and it is neither to Bertie's innocent benefit or for any Human kinda Love for him.
Smith has now showed his hand!
in 44 Scotland Street, love is either woke or empty.
At one time I thought this series was for fun. But it's not for any sorta Christian happiness or fun of a traditional marriage. Nope.
It's all for the discreet fun n games of the bourgeoisie! You know - the "eternal fire/ that burns before the ice cap reigns" - the fire between the loins that will not suffer to be dammed up.
Yeah, you got it now.
Smith was woke all along.
He's been playing us moral old-timers for fools with the philosphical Occam's Razors of Isabel Dalhousie or the down-home homeliness of Precious Ramotswe.
All that time he was only laughing into his sleeve at the Moral Majority.
Well. You know what William Blake said?
Mock on, mock on, Voltaire, Rousseau -
Mock on, Mock on - 'tis all in vain
You throw the sand against the wind -.
And the wind throws it back again!
And every grain becomes a gem
That shines upon the Red Sea floor
Reflected in the Sun's white light
Where Israel's tents do shine so bright!
Smith has now showed his hand!
in 44 Scotland Street, love is either woke or empty.
At one time I thought this series was for fun. But it's not for any sorta Christian happiness or fun of a traditional marriage. Nope.
It's all for the discreet fun n games of the bourgeoisie! You know - the "eternal fire/ that burns before the ice cap reigns" - the fire between the loins that will not suffer to be dammed up.
Yeah, you got it now.
Smith was woke all along.
He's been playing us moral old-timers for fools with the philosphical Occam's Razors of Isabel Dalhousie or the down-home homeliness of Precious Ramotswe.
All that time he was only laughing into his sleeve at the Moral Majority.
Well. You know what William Blake said?
Mock on, mock on, Voltaire, Rousseau -
Mock on, Mock on - 'tis all in vain
You throw the sand against the wind -.
And the wind throws it back again!
And every grain becomes a gem
That shines upon the Red Sea floor
Reflected in the Sun's white light
Where Israel's tents do shine so bright!
March 7, 2023
I truly enjoyed this volume of the 44 Scotland Street series. My favorite character continues to be Bertie who is now 7-years old and at one point I held my breath for the predicament he was in. However, I quickly remembered that these are gentle reads and that there would be a positive outcome!
This volume includes lots of the old favorites and some new characters also. I won't spoil it, but there are developments with the narcissistic Bruce!
Here are highlights from my favorite bits:
"People who deny things often strike me as being quite cheerful."
Regarding hanging teabags on the washing line: "You dry them see then you can use them again. We use our teabags three times."
Regarding preserving hot water bottles when the rubber begins to perish: "You can fix them with a bicycle repair kit" and "we keep our hot water bottles for 30 years. This one here Bertie belonged to my grandfather."
This volume includes lots of the old favorites and some new characters also. I won't spoil it, but there are developments with the narcissistic Bruce!
Here are highlights from my favorite bits:
"People who deny things often strike me as being quite cheerful."
Regarding hanging teabags on the washing line: "You dry them see then you can use them again. We use our teabags three times."
Regarding preserving hot water bottles when the rubber begins to perish: "You can fix them with a bicycle repair kit" and "we keep our hot water bottles for 30 years. This one here Bertie belonged to my grandfather."
February 28, 2022
Love in the Time of Bertie is the fifteenth book in the popular 44 Scotland Street series by Scottish author, Alexander McCall Smith, and in it, the lives of the residents of 44 Scotland Street and those of their friends are, once again, updated for the continuing enjoyment of series fans.
Bertie Pollock is dismayed to find the awful Olive and her acolyte Pansy in the Drummond Place Gardens, issuing edicts on games and marriage threats. But worse is on the way for Bertie: His mother, Irene decides it will broaden his horizons to come and live with her in Aberdeen for three months, an idea that horrifies most who know him. Poor Bertie!!
Meanwhile, Angus Lordie expresses his appreciation of the bespoke Lobb brogues he inherited from his father, while Domenica comments on Belgian indoor shoes and the fashion for knee-ripped jeans and low-slung trousers that expose underwear. She bemoans how independent privately-funded scholars suffer the condescension of academics, and Angus muses on the alter-ego endowed on him by the bureaucracy.
Matthew and Elspeth remark on their good fortune at having James: efficient au-pair, talented cook (a fact that prompts a discussion about food so good you want to lick the plate, socially unacceptable private habits and food waste) and part-time barista at Big Lou’s.
Is romance blossoming in Big Lou’s café? The aptly named but surprisingly couth Fat Bob is a professional strongman who raises the tax-deductibility of bacon rolls for his occupation. His history prompts discussion about acts of kindness and concern for others.
The ever-arrogant Bruce Anderson overestimates his skill at cryptic crosswords, and is offered a role in a morally questionable real estate scheme by a former schoolmate. When by chance he learns who the buyer is, he faces a moral dilemma. It all becomes moot when nature interferes in a very dramatic way.
Bertie valiantly argues his case for staying in Edinburgh to Stuart and Nicola, but it seems that Irene is still calling the shots, even from Aberdeen. Wishing that his sibling might go instead, Bertie remarks, not for the first time, on the resemblance of his baby brother Ulysses to the psychotherapist Irene forced him to see, Dr Fairbairn. Nicola Pollock ponders the obligation to tolerate those we dislike, perhaps intensely, and compares Irene Pollock to Agrippina, mother of Nero.
Ultimately, it falls to Bertie’s best friend, Ranald Braveheart MacPherson, to rescue Bertie, and that involves theft from a safe, a train journey, defenestration and close contact with ewes.
As always, many topics are mulled over or discussed: expert knowledge vs pretentiousness; the Dunbar Number of close friends; social climbers; guilt over the amount of water needed to produce coffee. Domenica MacDonald cultivates a friendship with Tarquin, one of the downstairs student neighbours, and they have some stimulating conversations.
Sister Maria-Fiore dei Fiori di Montagna continues to offer aphorisms, some more enigmatic than others: “Two snails do not argue about whose shell is the more attractive.” Angus compares conceptual art to the emperor’s new clothes, there is a marriage proposal, Highland Games are organised for the Drummond Street Gardens and, as always, Angus bestows a poem on the gathered company.
The concept of a serial novel is an interesting one, as the author is locked into what he has written earlier, unable to edit. Thus one of Bruce’s associates might be Greg or Gregor, but McCall Smith’s work is always a joy to read. This one has a generous helping of laugh-out-loud moments and a hilarious twist; fans will hope for many more instalments of this delightful series.
Bertie Pollock is dismayed to find the awful Olive and her acolyte Pansy in the Drummond Place Gardens, issuing edicts on games and marriage threats. But worse is on the way for Bertie: His mother, Irene decides it will broaden his horizons to come and live with her in Aberdeen for three months, an idea that horrifies most who know him. Poor Bertie!!
Meanwhile, Angus Lordie expresses his appreciation of the bespoke Lobb brogues he inherited from his father, while Domenica comments on Belgian indoor shoes and the fashion for knee-ripped jeans and low-slung trousers that expose underwear. She bemoans how independent privately-funded scholars suffer the condescension of academics, and Angus muses on the alter-ego endowed on him by the bureaucracy.
Matthew and Elspeth remark on their good fortune at having James: efficient au-pair, talented cook (a fact that prompts a discussion about food so good you want to lick the plate, socially unacceptable private habits and food waste) and part-time barista at Big Lou’s.
Is romance blossoming in Big Lou’s café? The aptly named but surprisingly couth Fat Bob is a professional strongman who raises the tax-deductibility of bacon rolls for his occupation. His history prompts discussion about acts of kindness and concern for others.
The ever-arrogant Bruce Anderson overestimates his skill at cryptic crosswords, and is offered a role in a morally questionable real estate scheme by a former schoolmate. When by chance he learns who the buyer is, he faces a moral dilemma. It all becomes moot when nature interferes in a very dramatic way.
Bertie valiantly argues his case for staying in Edinburgh to Stuart and Nicola, but it seems that Irene is still calling the shots, even from Aberdeen. Wishing that his sibling might go instead, Bertie remarks, not for the first time, on the resemblance of his baby brother Ulysses to the psychotherapist Irene forced him to see, Dr Fairbairn. Nicola Pollock ponders the obligation to tolerate those we dislike, perhaps intensely, and compares Irene Pollock to Agrippina, mother of Nero.
Ultimately, it falls to Bertie’s best friend, Ranald Braveheart MacPherson, to rescue Bertie, and that involves theft from a safe, a train journey, defenestration and close contact with ewes.
As always, many topics are mulled over or discussed: expert knowledge vs pretentiousness; the Dunbar Number of close friends; social climbers; guilt over the amount of water needed to produce coffee. Domenica MacDonald cultivates a friendship with Tarquin, one of the downstairs student neighbours, and they have some stimulating conversations.
Sister Maria-Fiore dei Fiori di Montagna continues to offer aphorisms, some more enigmatic than others: “Two snails do not argue about whose shell is the more attractive.” Angus compares conceptual art to the emperor’s new clothes, there is a marriage proposal, Highland Games are organised for the Drummond Street Gardens and, as always, Angus bestows a poem on the gathered company.
The concept of a serial novel is an interesting one, as the author is locked into what he has written earlier, unable to edit. Thus one of Bruce’s associates might be Greg or Gregor, but McCall Smith’s work is always a joy to read. This one has a generous helping of laugh-out-loud moments and a hilarious twist; fans will hope for many more instalments of this delightful series.
March 24, 2022
Bertie is just the best. Along with his friend Ranald Braveheart McPherson! I love their ingenuity!
Also, love seeing things happen to Bruce, and Bruce not just be a complete ass. There is hope for him yet!
And Big Lou! You deserve this, Lou!
So fun to check in with the Scotland Street crew! These books are just such a delight.
Also, love seeing things happen to Bruce, and Bruce not just be a complete ass. There is hope for him yet!
And Big Lou! You deserve this, Lou!
So fun to check in with the Scotland Street crew! These books are just such a delight.
April 9, 2022
Love in the Time of Bertie is the fifteenth book in the popular 44 Scotland Street series by Scottish author, Alexander McCall Smith, and in it, the lives of the residents of 44 Scotland Street and those of their friends are, once again, updated for the continuing enjoyment of series fans. The audio version is narrated by David Rintoul.
Bertie Pollock is dismayed to find the awful Olive and her acolyte Pansy in the Drummond Place Gardens, issuing edicts on games and marriage threats. But worse is on the way for Bertie: His mother, Irene decides it will broaden his horizons to come and live with her in Aberdeen for three months, an idea that horrifies most who know him. Poor Bertie!!
Meanwhile, Angus Lordie expresses his appreciation of the bespoke Lobb brogues he inherited from his father, while Domenica comments on Belgian indoor shoes and the fashion for knee-ripped jeans and low-slung trousers that expose underwear. She bemoans how independent privately-funded scholars suffer the condescension of academics, and Angus muses on the alter-ego endowed on him by the bureaucracy.
Matthew and Elspeth remark on their good fortune at having James: efficient au-pair, talented cook (a fact that prompts a discussion about food so good you want to lick the plate, socially unacceptable private habits and food waste) and part-time barista at Big Lou’s.
Is romance blossoming in Big Lou’s café? The aptly named but surprisingly couth Fat Bob is a professional strongman who raises the tax-deductibility of bacon rolls for his occupation. His history prompts discussion about acts of kindness and concern for others.
The ever-arrogant Bruce Anderson overestimates his skill at cryptic crosswords, and is offered a role in a morally questionable real estate scheme by a former schoolmate. When by chance he learns who the buyer is, he faces a moral dilemma. It all becomes moot when nature interferes in a very dramatic way.
Bertie valiantly argues his case for staying in Edinburgh to Stuart and Nicola, but it seems that Irene is still calling the shots, even from Aberdeen. Wishing that his sibling might go instead, Bertie remarks, not for the first time, on the resemblance of his baby brother Ulysses to the psychotherapist Irene forced him to see, Dr Fairbairn. Nicola Pollock ponders the obligation to tolerate those we dislike, perhaps intensely, and compares Irene Pollock to Agrippina, mother of Nero.
Ultimately, it falls to Bertie’s best friend, Ranald Braveheart MacPherson, to rescue Bertie, and that involves theft from a safe, a train journey, defenestration and close contact with ewes.
As always, many topics are mulled over or discussed: expert knowledge vs pretentiousness; the Dunbar Number of close friends; social climbers; guilt over the amount of water needed to produce coffee. Domenica MacDonald cultivates a friendship with Tarquin, one of the downstairs student neighbours, and they have some stimulating conversations.
Sister Maria-Fiore dei Fiori di Montagna continues to offer aphorisms, some more enigmatic than others: “Two snails do not argue about whose shell is the more attractive.” Angus compares conceptual art to the emperor’s new clothes, there is a marriage proposal, Highland Games are organised for the Drummond Street Gardens and, as always, Angus bestows a poem on the gathered company.
The concept of a serial novel is an interesting one, as the author is locked into what he has written earlier, unable to edit. Thus one of Bruce’s associates might be Greg or Gregor, but McCall Smith’s work is always a joy to read. This one has a generous helping of laugh-out-loud moments and a hilarious twist; fans will hope for many more instalments of this delightful series.
Bertie Pollock is dismayed to find the awful Olive and her acolyte Pansy in the Drummond Place Gardens, issuing edicts on games and marriage threats. But worse is on the way for Bertie: His mother, Irene decides it will broaden his horizons to come and live with her in Aberdeen for three months, an idea that horrifies most who know him. Poor Bertie!!
Meanwhile, Angus Lordie expresses his appreciation of the bespoke Lobb brogues he inherited from his father, while Domenica comments on Belgian indoor shoes and the fashion for knee-ripped jeans and low-slung trousers that expose underwear. She bemoans how independent privately-funded scholars suffer the condescension of academics, and Angus muses on the alter-ego endowed on him by the bureaucracy.
Matthew and Elspeth remark on their good fortune at having James: efficient au-pair, talented cook (a fact that prompts a discussion about food so good you want to lick the plate, socially unacceptable private habits and food waste) and part-time barista at Big Lou’s.
Is romance blossoming in Big Lou’s café? The aptly named but surprisingly couth Fat Bob is a professional strongman who raises the tax-deductibility of bacon rolls for his occupation. His history prompts discussion about acts of kindness and concern for others.
The ever-arrogant Bruce Anderson overestimates his skill at cryptic crosswords, and is offered a role in a morally questionable real estate scheme by a former schoolmate. When by chance he learns who the buyer is, he faces a moral dilemma. It all becomes moot when nature interferes in a very dramatic way.
Bertie valiantly argues his case for staying in Edinburgh to Stuart and Nicola, but it seems that Irene is still calling the shots, even from Aberdeen. Wishing that his sibling might go instead, Bertie remarks, not for the first time, on the resemblance of his baby brother Ulysses to the psychotherapist Irene forced him to see, Dr Fairbairn. Nicola Pollock ponders the obligation to tolerate those we dislike, perhaps intensely, and compares Irene Pollock to Agrippina, mother of Nero.
Ultimately, it falls to Bertie’s best friend, Ranald Braveheart MacPherson, to rescue Bertie, and that involves theft from a safe, a train journey, defenestration and close contact with ewes.
As always, many topics are mulled over or discussed: expert knowledge vs pretentiousness; the Dunbar Number of close friends; social climbers; guilt over the amount of water needed to produce coffee. Domenica MacDonald cultivates a friendship with Tarquin, one of the downstairs student neighbours, and they have some stimulating conversations.
Sister Maria-Fiore dei Fiori di Montagna continues to offer aphorisms, some more enigmatic than others: “Two snails do not argue about whose shell is the more attractive.” Angus compares conceptual art to the emperor’s new clothes, there is a marriage proposal, Highland Games are organised for the Drummond Street Gardens and, as always, Angus bestows a poem on the gathered company.
The concept of a serial novel is an interesting one, as the author is locked into what he has written earlier, unable to edit. Thus one of Bruce’s associates might be Greg or Gregor, but McCall Smith’s work is always a joy to read. This one has a generous helping of laugh-out-loud moments and a hilarious twist; fans will hope for many more instalments of this delightful series.
February 14, 2022
1. Read new Scotland Street book
2. Open review of previous volume
3. Copy
4. Paste into new review
5. Repeat
What can I add? It’s hard to let a series go after 15 books. It’s ‘nice’ and ‘comfortable’ to be back, of course, but as noted with the last few volumes the series seems to have lost its way a little.
There are a few standout chapters. Bertie continues to provide the best value, especially his visit to Aberdeen. Bruce made a noteable return but was then relegated to second hand observations for the rest of the book.
I’ll see you all back here for the next one, no doubt.
2. Open review of previous volume
3. Copy
4. Paste into new review
5. Repeat
What can I add? It’s hard to let a series go after 15 books. It’s ‘nice’ and ‘comfortable’ to be back, of course, but as noted with the last few volumes the series seems to have lost its way a little.
There are a few standout chapters. Bertie continues to provide the best value, especially his visit to Aberdeen. Bruce made a noteable return but was then relegated to second hand observations for the rest of the book.
I’ll see you all back here for the next one, no doubt.
March 20, 2023
Another gentle addition to the 44 Scotland Street series. Every book in the series offers an escape from reality, each character is well developed and it’s always like catching up with old friends when you read what antics they’ve been up to.
February 22, 2022
I just adore this series, it is so heartfelt and funny! I look forward to finding out how each character will grow and change in every book, and in this new installment a lot of my favourite people have exciting news and adventures. Bertie is growing up and ventures out on his own to visit his mother, Irene, in Aberdeen, a trip he is really not looking forward to. Big Lou has a new romantic interest, and the handsome and narcissistic Bruce Anderson gets in over his head with some business ventures. I don't know how Alexander McCall Smith does it, but just when I think things are truly hopeless, his characters find solutions that are both witty and hilarious, and even Bruce seems to have some redeeming qualities. Then they wrap it all up with a heartwarming poem by Angus Lordie, and my heart is full!
April 2, 2025
The one in which Bertie runs away from Irene in Aberdeen but in his childish and generous way says, I love you mummy, but can I please love you from Edinburgh.
March 22, 2022
I just love these characters so much and am thrilled every time a new installment comes out. I want them to never end. This one was full of surprises and a few twists that had me pulling the car over from laughter. How can you not love a story where a man named Fat Bob is the answer to the wishes of a woman named Big Lou. So perfect. And, yet again, Robert Ian Mackenzie gives me chills with his narration. Yep, I do not speed these audio books up when I listen to them! Some quotes I loved...
“It was the beauty of the country before them that had done it. Scotland was a place of attenuated light, of fragility, of a beauty that broke the heart.”
“But Domenica thought: I really would like things to be forever. I would like to be able to sit at this table once a week, perhaps, with these friends. I would like to talk about the things we talk about, the small things, whatever happened in the world. I would like to wake up in the morning and not think that things were getting worse. I would like not to have to listen to the exchange of insults between politicians. I would like to hear of people co-operating with one another and helping others and bringing succour and comfort to the needy and... and I would like not to think that we were still in the seventeenth century, as divided amongst ourselves as they were at that time, pitted against each other, with one vision of the good battling another, and people despising others for their opinions.”
“Angus turned to Domenica. "This view always makes me feel sad. I don't know why, but it does." He drew in his breath, savouring the freshness of the air. Freshly mown grass was upon it, and the smell of lavender, too, from Elspeth's kitchen garden. "Well, perhaps not sad--more wistful, perhaps, which is one notch below actual sadness.”
“He loved big words almost as much as he loved big women.”
“I suppose we should all remind ourselves of our view. things may get bad and then we say to ourselves remember your view and then everything looks better.”
“There is a particular silence at the end of a piece of pipe music. It is very moving.”
“It was the beauty of the country before them that had done it. Scotland was a place of attenuated light, of fragility, of a beauty that broke the heart.”
“But Domenica thought: I really would like things to be forever. I would like to be able to sit at this table once a week, perhaps, with these friends. I would like to talk about the things we talk about, the small things, whatever happened in the world. I would like to wake up in the morning and not think that things were getting worse. I would like not to have to listen to the exchange of insults between politicians. I would like to hear of people co-operating with one another and helping others and bringing succour and comfort to the needy and... and I would like not to think that we were still in the seventeenth century, as divided amongst ourselves as they were at that time, pitted against each other, with one vision of the good battling another, and people despising others for their opinions.”
“Angus turned to Domenica. "This view always makes me feel sad. I don't know why, but it does." He drew in his breath, savouring the freshness of the air. Freshly mown grass was upon it, and the smell of lavender, too, from Elspeth's kitchen garden. "Well, perhaps not sad--more wistful, perhaps, which is one notch below actual sadness.”
“He loved big words almost as much as he loved big women.”
“I suppose we should all remind ourselves of our view. things may get bad and then we say to ourselves remember your view and then everything looks better.”
“There is a particular silence at the end of a piece of pipe music. It is very moving.”
March 11, 2022
Bertie, Bertie, Bertie.
This seven year old has our heart. So easily pleased, so easily hurt. Wanting only peace and a little understanding in his world. Wanting mostly to be seen, and to just be a NORMAL little boy.
The Scotland Street tenants are all back with their lives in bits of confusion. Stuart, Irene, and Nicola (with little Ulysses) still in conflict with Bertie the keen observer. Dr Fairbain is still lurking in the background. Ranald is Bertie's BFF.
Domenica, Angus (and satisfied Cyril) questioning their own destiny and life choices.
Big Lou, new beau Fat Bob, and little Finley embarking on a future of surprises and togetherness.
Matthew, Elsbeth, the triplets, and Au-Pair James still sorting through their roles in life and maybe learning a bit about gratitude.
Bruce, Antonia, and Sister Maria...finding their hopes, dreams intersecting in a profound and life changing way.
Still annoying Patsy, Olive make Bertie's life seem unbearable. Greg and Ed offer Bruce a deal that is too good to be true. But underneath it all is a conscience that brings Bruce to his senses. A big surprise to all readers.
Sadly Bertie is still seven. Time moves on for the Scotland Street characters, but Bertie's still seven. I do wonder how McCall Smith is going to advance his age. Bertie is indeed an "old soul". Still my favorite little boy.
This seven year old has our heart. So easily pleased, so easily hurt. Wanting only peace and a little understanding in his world. Wanting mostly to be seen, and to just be a NORMAL little boy.
The Scotland Street tenants are all back with their lives in bits of confusion. Stuart, Irene, and Nicola (with little Ulysses) still in conflict with Bertie the keen observer. Dr Fairbain is still lurking in the background. Ranald is Bertie's BFF.
Domenica, Angus (and satisfied Cyril) questioning their own destiny and life choices.
Big Lou, new beau Fat Bob, and little Finley embarking on a future of surprises and togetherness.
Matthew, Elsbeth, the triplets, and Au-Pair James still sorting through their roles in life and maybe learning a bit about gratitude.
Bruce, Antonia, and Sister Maria...finding their hopes, dreams intersecting in a profound and life changing way.
Still annoying Patsy, Olive make Bertie's life seem unbearable. Greg and Ed offer Bruce a deal that is too good to be true. But underneath it all is a conscience that brings Bruce to his senses. A big surprise to all readers.
Sadly Bertie is still seven. Time moves on for the Scotland Street characters, but Bertie's still seven. I do wonder how McCall Smith is going to advance his age. Bertie is indeed an "old soul". Still my favorite little boy.
November 11, 2022
As always, McCall Smith gives us a pleasant, comfortable read with absolutely no tension or suspense. In other words, no stakes.
His female characters continue to be an issue, too. He has some smart, strong women here - Dominica and Big Lou, specifically - and writes them well. But they never question the status quo or express a strong opinion. The females who do - Irene and Olive - are shrill, obsessive, unreasonable, man-hating shrews. McCall Smith cannot write an opinionated female character without making her absolutely unbearable. In other words, he’s fine with modern women as long as they’re pleasant and compliant and don’t make a fuss.
It’s low-key misogyny.
His female characters continue to be an issue, too. He has some smart, strong women here - Dominica and Big Lou, specifically - and writes them well. But they never question the status quo or express a strong opinion. The females who do - Irene and Olive - are shrill, obsessive, unreasonable, man-hating shrews. McCall Smith cannot write an opinionated female character without making her absolutely unbearable. In other words, he’s fine with modern women as long as they’re pleasant and compliant and don’t make a fuss.
It’s low-key misogyny.
May 28, 2022
I always read books from this series so quickly but am always sad when they are over, not least because I'm not sure if there will be another. Another lovely poem from Angus, someone new in Big Lou's life, adventures for Bertie and Ranald, and shocking comeuppance for Bruce. I'm happy with the threads that seem to be a little more tied off, but there are plenty of loose ends to keep going. As always, I can't wait (but I guess I'll have to) for more musings and little exploits from the crew at 44 Scotland Street.
November 17, 2021
Another wonderful outing with Edinburgh residents -- Big Lou finds true love, Bertie deals with his mother again, Bruce has a change of heart.
June 9, 2023
Gets a bit silly towards the end and feels too much like a mouthpiece for the author at times. Not unenjoyable though overall.
April 3, 2022
The latest entry in AMS’s 44 Scotland Street series finds Irene raising her ugly head and wanting Bertie to spend 3 months with her in Aberdeen where she is pursuing her PhD in psychology. Bertie doesn’t want to go but is told that he must because Irene is his mother, and she has a right to see him. Once there, poor Bertie doesn’t understand the Highlands accent, nor does he want to start psychoanalysis again with his old psychologist. He plans his escape & learns what a true friend Ranald Braveheart McPherson really is.
Meanwhile Angus discovers thar Sister Maria de Fiori de Fiori de Montagna is going to be a judge for The Turner Prize while Domenica develops a flirtatious friendship with one of the students living downstairs. Love blooms at last for Big Lou when she meets big-hearted Fat Bob, a highland games strongman and Bruce has a life-threatening experience that changes his life.
All the threads are tied up in a neat bow as the neighbors stage their own version of the highland games in Drummond Park. I love this series and want it to go on forever.
August 5, 2023
I recently listened to the new volume, The Enigma of Garlic, & there were several things that I wasn't following, but figured I'd just forgotten what had happened previously. I should have known I'm not that far gone, as I recently noticed this volume & the title didn't sound familiar. Turns out I accidentally skipped it & now having listened to it, more events in "Garlic" make sense! Once again, an enjoyable visit with all the fun characters living in Edinburgh & interacting with each other's lives.
March 31, 2022
I love these books. Absolutely love them, and Bertie is by far my favorite of all of the Scotland Street characters. I never want to say too much for fear of giving away any spoilers, but suffice it to say that everything I've ever wanted to have happen for some of my most-loved and most-despised characters happened in this book. I even have hope about the future Turner Prize! :)
Read this book ASAP!
(And yes, Ryan, I cheated. Deal with it!)
Read this book ASAP!
(And yes, Ryan, I cheated. Deal with it!)
August 28, 2025
These lovely, gentle books are the tales of various individuals and families living at or near 44 Scotland Street in Edinburgh, featuring 7 year old Bertie Pollock, his family, and their friends and neighbours. Charming, funny, and kind, they are full of hope and compassion for the many foibles and frailties of people, and celebrate art and literature and Scotland. And there is a wonderful commentary on the Turner Prize hidden in the pages. This series must be read in order.
August 16, 2022
Another wonderful, charming, thought provoking, entertaining story about my favorite characters living on Scotland Street in Edinburg, Scotland. I treasure the books in this series. I admire the author’s storytelling talent and the endearing characters he creates.
June 18, 2022
The usual characters and quirks and little goings on over at #44. In the end, it always just makes you want to pack up and move to Scotland.
July 22, 2022
I can’t wait for the next one. I never tire of this series
August 2, 2023
Another wonderful book in this series - best one so far!
March 17, 2022
Can't get enough of this series, this writer.
I have even been rereading them - well, re-listening - the spoken version has such a great narrator.
I have even been rereading them - well, re-listening - the spoken version has such a great narrator.
July 14, 2022
I love this whole series and this book did not disappoint. I'm sure that having traveled to Scotland a couple of years ago has aided in the enjoyment of reading these books, however, I love the author's style. Unique cast of characters who I feel like I know, Witty, thought provoking but light, and detailed. This is book number 15 and I'm not bored with the series yet, I'm just looking forward to the next one he writes.
March 13, 2024
Pleasurable installment in this series for me. The return of Bruce in a new story line was appreciated with an interesting twist. The other characters had some developments as well that sparked my interest, though Domenica is always the least favorite character for me.
January 28, 2022
I look forward to the release of the next instalment every time and this one didn’t disappoint. I listen on audible and David Rintoul is a fabulous narrator. An easy listen and enjoyable. Would highly recommend this series. I love following the lives of the characters (however far fetched some of the storylines may be!). Looking forward to #16.
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