Richard Osman’s series, The Thursday Murder Club is a touching, quirky and gentle exploration of the human condition. There are so many reviews of this series, and I’m looking forward to the film, so popping this here so I have a record of much I love this group of senior sleuths.
The Thursday Murder Club Mysteries are an example of the chosen families, a theme that commonly focuses on the younger generations in popular fiction. In this mystery series our protagonists are instead in their 70s and 80s and the chosen nature of their families is all the more important because of it.
Our parents are now of a similar age to Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron. The issues of dementia, aches and pains, loss of loved ones, new romance and an ongoing need for connection and a sense of purpose are all very familiar. Osman deals with each in a gentle but penetrating way that will at time bring tears and at others laughter.
The inclusivity and diversity that weaves its way through this very English setting is very much part of its charm. It is never twee, saccharine or condescending.
I adore the language, and feel I know these characters. Allen the dog is also a personal favourite.
