'Ladies Detective Agency' writer to visit Raue Center

Raue Center for the Arts in Crystal Lake has announced that author Alexander McCall Smith will launch its new lecture series at 2 p.m. Sept. 30.

Smith has written more than 60 books, including specialist academic titles, short story collections and a number children's books. But, he is best known for his internationally acclaimed No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series. The series has been translated into 39 languages and has sold over 14 million copies worldwide.

Smith was born in what is now known as Zimbabwe and was a law professor at the University of Botswana. Over the past year, he has lectured at the New York Public Library, the Philadelphia Book Festival and the Edinburgh Festival.

"We are lucky to have Alexander McCall Smith kick off our lecture series," said Richard Kuranda, executive director, Raue Center for the Arts.

"Raue Center enters a new phase of growth with the an astounding voice, we strive to bring the best to McHenry County."

Raue Center is at 26 N. Williams St., in historic downtown Crystal Lake. Order your tickets online at www.rauecenter.org or by calling the box office at (815) 356-9010.

For more Alexander McCall Smith news and tour dates visit Web site http://www.alexandermccallsmith.co.uk.