The Transcendental Murder

If you've read other Homer and Mary Kelly mysteries, but not this one, put this one on your list! This book not only is a good story, but we get to see Homer and Mary when they first meet. Of course, they find each other irritating. The plot, which is quite good and intriguing, throws Mary and Homer together, but still it looks like they will never like each other. All the while, you the reader, know from the other books that they will end up together. Langton has her usual cast of colorful and eccentric characters, an interesting mystery that goes back to the past and involves the Transcendentalists, and pokes her usual gentle fun at people who are carried away with themselves. I enjoyed this both for seeing how Homer and Mary met, and for the story itself. A must for those who enjoy Homer and Mary Kelly!

Henry David Thoreau and Emily Dickenson together ... well perhaps? Detective Homer Kelly and beautiful librarian Mary Morgan together ... you'll just have to read it! The 60 short chapters keep the story and the mystery moving along shapely, like a bite out of a McIntosh apple or a cool swig of apple cider. Perhaps there is nothing transcendental about murder, but each chapter is introduced by a quote from Thoreau, Emerson, Dickenson, or the Alcotts, and the quotes help you feel the presence of these in Concord. A good mystery and a fun read! As a bird watcher, I would have to question the realism of the Bald Eagle being Teddy's last bird on Thoreau's list, particularly since the now extinct, Passenger Pigeon was seen by Thoreau.

I first read this book in 1966 in high school and remember becoming instantly attracted to the characters and the New England setting. Even after all these years I remember worrying that Mary and Homer would never get together. They were both so different and eccentric they belonged together! Langton also manages to keep a respectable mystery going that keeps you guessing and with an exciting ending. Over the years I have read and enjoyed Langton's other books as very literate - just quirky and funny enough to be charming without being silly. Some years ago I visited New England and found myself imagining Mary and Homer in the places I visited. So it appears I can never forget Mary and Homer as they have become a part of my life. Over 30 years ago I wished these characters were real so I could meet them - after all this time I still do.