The Reluctant Detective and Other Stories — Michael Z. Lewin

Michael Z. LewinÂ's view of the world is slightly offbeat. Reared in Indiana, he created tales in which one of IndianaÂ's most famous politicos, "Danny" Quayle, actually solves crimes. Having lived in England for some thirty years, Lewin invented a "reluctant detective" who prefers to take advantage of BritainÂ's tax laws than do any actual detecting. A few years ago, Lewin invented a family of detectives  -- grandfather, children, and grandchildren  -- who investigate criminals in Bath, England, but (with the sensitivity of someone who sees a society as an adoptive son) Lewin gave the Lunghi family of sleuths an Italian background.

The 21 crime tales in The Reluctant Detective and Other Stories range from the Edgar-nominated title story, to 2 investigations by "Danny" Quayle, to the 6 cases of the Lunghi detective agency  -- and also include stories about Indiana police Lieutenant Leroy Powder (who is saddled with having to take a Japanese visitor on a night patrol), a hit man pretending to be interviewed by Dolly Parton, a detective named Rover who happens to be a dog  -- literally.

The book also contains a new introduction and story notes by the author, and a checklist of Michael Z. LewinÂ's mystery novels and stories.