Excitement abounds when the revolving door of life brings fresh faces & hilarious new developments to the residents of44 Scotland Street.Things are looking up for seven-year-oldBertie Pollock. The arrival of his spirited grandmother & the absence of his meddlesome mother—who is currently running a book club in aBedouinharem (don’t ask)—bring unforeseen blessings: no psychotherapy, noItalianlessons, & no yoga classes.Meanwhile, surprises awaitScotland Street’sgrown-ups.Matthewmakes a discovery that could be a major windfall for his family, but also presents a worrisome dilemma.Patlearns a secret about her father’s fiancée that may shake up her family, unless she can convince the perpetually narcissisticBruceto help her out. And theDuke of Johannesburgfinds himself in sudden need of an explanation—and an escape route—when accosted by a determined guest at a soirée.From the cunning schemes of theAssociation of Scottish Nudiststo the myriad expressive possibilities of the word“aye,” Alexander McCall Smithguides us through the risks and rewards of friendship, love, & family with his usual inimitable wit & irresistible charm.