Mr Scobie's Riddle

Mr Scobie's arrival at the nursing home of St Christopher and St Jude – and descent into the clutches of Matron Hyacinth Price – is accidental. Adrift in his own memories but preserving a gentle politesse, Mr Scobie stands apart from the others.

For long-term resident and eccentric, Miss Hailey, he represents a kindred spirit; for Matron Price – a lady of questionable practices – the latest victim.

This bleakly comic investigation of old age, exile and displacement shows Elizabeth Jolley at her finest. It is written with wry humour, melancholy and great warmth.