Cathy C. (cathyskye) - , reviewed on 10/8/2017 + 2266 more book reviews

The Question of the Absentee Father continues one of my favorite mystery series. Not only is this book (and the series) a sensitive treatment of Asperger's, it actually allows me to see the world through Samuel's eyes and to have my brain become attuned to the way he thinks. Samuel is a nuanced character; readers learn his many abilities as well as his weaknesses, and in this latest book, we see how well he copes with being taken out of his comfort zone. His investigations also teach him things from book to book-- so he's doing better than many of the rest of us.

The cast of characters around Samuel is a wonderful support group for him. (We should all be so lucky.) His mother takes a backseat in this book, but her presence is still felt. Mike the taxi cab driver not only helps Samuel get from Point A to Point B, he can also be relied upon to help when needed. And what can I say about Miss Washburn? Two things, actually. One, it's a pleasure to watch the working and personal relationships between Samuel and his associate grow, and two, whatever you do--be careful with this woman's phone!

This entire series delivers strong characters, humor, enlightenment, and a fine mystery, and I recommend it highly. If the series is new to you, you can basically jump in anywhere, but for the sake of character development, I suggest you begin at the beginning with The Question of the Missing Head.

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