Alexander McCall Smith's War Tale

Alexander McCall Smith brings to life a whole world in Africa — Botswana — with his "No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency" series.

There are always strong female characters, and criminal capers filled with wit and life wisdom.

But McCall Smith brings other worlds to life as well. This time out, he's exploring rural England in the harrowing midst of World War II — and the power of music to pull people through.

We speak with Alexander McCall Smith about his novel “La’s Orchestra Saves the World.”
-Tom Ashbrook
Note: This show was first broadcast Dec. 15, 2009.

Guest:

Alexander McCall Smith, bestselling author of more than 60 books and creator of The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series. His latest book is “La’s Orchestra Saves the World.” He is professor emeritus of medical law at the University of Edinburgh.