Title: The Weed That Strings the Hangman’s Bag
Author: Alan Bradley
First published March 9, 2010
364 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780385342315 (ISBN10: 0385342314)
Rating: 3.99
Overview
In Alan Bradley’s latest mystery, the brilliant and inquisitive eleven-year-old Flavia de Luce is back to untangle another web of secrets and deceit in the tranquil town of Bishop’s Lacey. When a local puppeteer meets a shocking demise, Flavia can’t resist the temptation to investigate the strange circumstances surrounding his death.
Along with her trusty bicycle, Gladys, Flavia embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth about the town’s deadliest secrets. From the madwoman in Gibbet Wood to the vicar’s mysterious ministrations, Flavia’s investigation leads her down a rabbit hole of clues that ultimately point to a suspicious death from years ago.
With her keen intellect and fearless spirit, Flavia is determined to solve the case – but at what cost? Bradley’s signature wit and suspense will keep readers on the edge of their seats in this delightful and captivating mystery.
About the Author
Alan has a background in electronic engineering and has worked in various radio and television stations in Ontario, Canada. He later became the Director of Television Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, where he stayed for 25 years before retiring in 1994 to focus on writing.
Alan is a founding member of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild and became the first president of the Saskatoon Writers. He has written children’s stories that have been published in The Canadian Children’s Annual, and his short story, Meet Miss Mullen, was awarded the Saskatchewan Writers Guild Award for Children’s Literature.
Alan has taught Script Writing and Television Production courses at the University of Saskatchewan for several years at both beginner and advanced levels. His works have been published in literary journals, and he has also given public readings in schools and galleries.
CBC Radio has broadcast some of his short stories.
He is a founding member of The Casebook of Saskatoon, a society dedicated to the study of Sherlock Holmes and Sherlockian writings. Together with the late Dr. William A.S. Sarjeant, he wrote Ms Holmes of Baker Street, a book that proposed the theory that the famous detective was a woman.
The book’s release caused a stir, with the authors appearing on national media and engaging in a public debate at Toronto’s Harbourfront.
The Shoebox Bible, published in 2006, has been compared to Tuesdays With Morrie and Mr. God, This is Anna. He won the Debut Dagger Award in 2007 for his novel The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie.
The book features eleven-year-old Flavia de Luce and has won several awards, including the Agatha Award for Best First Novel and the Spotted Owl Award.
Alan Bradley now lives in Malta with his wife and two cats.
Editoral Review
In Alan Bradley’s “The Weed That Strings the Hangman’s Bag,” readers are transported back to the quaint English village of Bishop’s Lacey, where precocious 11-year-old Flavia de Luce is once again embroiled in an intriguing mystery. First published on March 9, 2010, this second installment in the Flavia de Luce series follows the highly successful debut of “The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie.”
Bradley, a Canadian author, has made a name for himself in the cozy mystery genre with his endearing and quirky protagonist, Flavia de Luce.
The series is set in post-World War II England and incorporates elements of both Gothic and classic detective fiction. Bradley’s writing style is both charming and witty, with a unique voice that captures the essence of the time period.
In “The Weed That Strings the Hangman’s Bag,” Flavia finds herself caught up in a series of bizarre events after a traveling puppet show arrives in Bishop’s Lacey. When one of the puppeteers is found dead under suspicious circumstances, Flavia takes it upon herself to uncover the truth behind the crime.
Along the way, she enlists the help of her trusted friend and family butler, Dogger. One of the strengths of “The Weed That Strings the Hangman’s Bag” is Bradley’s ability to create a vivid and atmospheric setting.
Bishop’s Lacey and its quirky inhabitants are brought to life through Bradley’s vivid descriptions, providing readers with a sense of both time and place. The characters are also well-drawn, with Flavia’s intelligence and wit making her a standout protagonist.
The pacing of the novel is also well-executed, with the mystery unfolding at a steady pace that keeps readers engaged throughout. The plot structure is cleverly crafted, with a variety of twists and turns that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
However, while the book is well-written, it is not without its flaws. The mystery itself may be a little too predictable for some readers, and there are certain aspects of the plot that could have been fleshed out more.
Additionally, the supporting characters are not as fully developed as Flavia herself, which may leave some readers wanting more. Despite its flaws, “The Weed That Strings the Hangman’s Bag” is a charming and enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries and classic detective fiction.
It is a well-crafted novel that showcases Bradley’s skill as a writer and his ability to transport readers to another time and place. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to anyone looking for a delightful and entertaining read.
