The Mrs. Pollifax books are a series of spy novels written by Dorothy Gilman. The series follows the adventures of Mrs. Emily Pollifax, a middle-aged widow from suburban New Jersey who becomes a secret agent for the CIA. The books are known for their humor, suspense, and strong female protagonist.
The first book in the series, The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax, was published in 1966. The book was an immediate success, and Gilman went on to write 11 more Mrs. Pollifax novels over the next 20 years. The series was adapted into a television series in 1971, starring Angie Dickinson as Mrs. Pollifax.
Mrs. Pollifax Books in Order
Here are 8 important points about the Mrs. Pollifax books in order:
- 12 books in total
- First book: 1966
- Last book: 1986
- Middle-aged widow protagonist
- CIA secret agent
- Humor and suspense
- Strong female protagonist
- Adapted into TV series
The Mrs. Pollifax books are a beloved series of spy novels that have entertained readers for over 50 years.
12 books in total
Dorothy Gilman wrote a total of 12 Mrs. Pollifax books between 1966 and 1986. The books are:
- The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax (1966)
Mrs. Emily Pollifax, a middle-aged widow from suburban New Jersey, is recruited by the CIA to deliver a package to Albania.
- Mrs. Pollifax in the Orient (1971)
Mrs. Pollifax travels to Hong Kong and Japan to investigate a smuggling ring.
- Mrs. Pollifax and the Whirling Dervishes (1972)
Mrs. Pollifax goes undercover as a belly dancer in Turkey to stop a terrorist plot.
- Mrs. Pollifax and the Golden Triangle (1973)
Mrs. Pollifax travels to the Golden Triangle of Southeast Asia to investigate a drug smuggling operation.
The remaining 8 books in the series follow a similar pattern, with Mrs. Pollifax traveling to exotic locations and using her wits and charm to thwart various criminal plots.
First book: 1966
The first book in the Mrs. Pollifax series, The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax, was published in 1966. The book introduced readers to Emily Pollifax, a middle-aged widow from suburban New Jersey who is recruited by the CIA to deliver a package to Albania.
Mrs. Pollifax is a reluctant spy, but she is also a resourceful and determined woman. She uses her wits and charm to overcome the many obstacles she faces on her mission. Along the way, she meets a cast of colorful characters, including a handsome CIA agent, a bumbling British spy, and a group of Albanian rebels.
The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its humor, suspense, and strong female protagonist. The book was also adapted into a television movie in 1971, starring Angie Dickinson as Mrs. Pollifax.
The success of The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax led Gilman to write 11 more books in the series. The books were all bestsellers, and they continue to be enjoyed by readers today.
Significance of the first book:
The first book in the Mrs. Pollifax series is significant for several reasons. First, it introduced readers to a new and refreshing type of spy protagonist. Mrs. Pollifax is not a young, glamorous secret agent. She is a middle-aged widow from suburbia. She is resourceful, determined, and brave, but she is also relatable and down-to-earth.
Second, the first book set the tone for the rest of the series. The books are known for their humor, suspense, and strong sense of place. Gilman's writing is witty and engaging, and she has a knack for creating memorable characters and settings.
Finally, the first book in the Mrs. Pollifax series was a critical and commercial success. It helped to launch Gilman's career as a novelist, and it paved the way for the 11 books that followed.
Last book: 1986
The last book in the Mrs. Pollifax series, Mrs. Pollifax and the Golden Triangle, was published in 1986. The book finds Mrs. Pollifax traveling to the Golden Triangle of Southeast Asia to investigate a drug smuggling operation.
- A fitting conclusion to the series
Mrs. Pollifax and the Golden Triangle is a satisfying conclusion to the Mrs. Pollifax series. The book brings Mrs. Pollifax's story full circle, as she returns to the region where she first began her career as a spy.
- A return to familiar territory
In Mrs. Pollifax and the Golden Triangle, Gilman revisits some of the themes and settings that she explored in her earlier books. The book features a cast of colorful characters, including a CIA agent, a British spy, and a group of Southeast Asian rebels.
- A suspenseful and exciting adventure
Mrs. Pollifax and the Golden Triangle is a suspenseful and exciting adventure story. Mrs. Pollifax faces danger at every turn as she investigates the drug smuggling operation. The book is full of twists and turns, and it keeps readers guessing until the very end.
- A poignant farewell to Mrs. Pollifax
Mrs. Pollifax and the Golden Triangle is a poignant farewell to Mrs. Pollifax. The book ends with Mrs. Pollifax retiring from the CIA and returning to her home in New Jersey. It is a bittersweet ending, but it is also a fitting conclusion to the story of a remarkable woman.
Mrs. Pollifax and the Golden Triangle is a fitting end to the Mrs. Pollifax series. It is a suspenseful, exciting, and poignant adventure story that brings Mrs. Pollifax's story full circle.
Middle-aged widow protagonist
One of the things that makes the Mrs. Pollifax books so unique is their protagonist, Emily Pollifax. Mrs. Pollifax is not your typical spy. She is a middle-aged widow from suburban New Jersey. She is not particularly athletic or glamorous. She is not a trained spy. But she is resourceful, determined, and brave.
Mrs. Pollifax is a refreshing change from the typical spy protagonist. She is not a young, handsome man with a license to kill. She is a relatable, down-to-earth woman who just happens to be a secret agent. She is someone that readers can root for.
Mrs. Pollifax's age and lack of experience often work to her advantage. She is underestimated by her enemies, who often dismiss her as a harmless old lady. This allows her to get the drop on them and complete her missions.
Mrs. Pollifax is also a role model for older adults. She shows that it is possible to be adventurous and have a fulfilling life, even after retirement. She is a reminder that age is just a number.
Significance of the middle-aged widow protagonist:
The middle-aged widow protagonist is significant for several reasons. First, it was a groundbreaking choice at the time. In the 1960s, most spy novels featured young, male protagonists. Mrs. Pollifax was a refreshing change from the norm.
Second, Mrs. Pollifax's age and lack of experience make her a more relatable protagonist. Readers can identify with her more easily than they could with a young, glamorous spy.
Third, Mrs. Pollifax's success as a spy shows that age is just a number. It is possible to be adventurous and have a fulfilling life, even after retirement.
Mrs. Pollifax is a beloved character who has inspired readers for over 50 years. She is a reminder that anyone can be a hero, regardless of their age or experience.
CIA secret agent
Mrs. Pollifax is a secret agent for the CIA. She is recruited by the CIA because of her resourcefulness, determination, and bravery. She is also a good listener and has a knack for getting people to talk.
- Unlikely spy
Mrs. Pollifax is an unlikely spy. She is a middle-aged widow from suburban New Jersey. She is not particularly athletic or glamorous. She is not a trained spy. But she is resourceful, determined, and brave. These qualities make her a valuable asset to the CIA.
- Variety of missions
Mrs. Pollifax is sent on a variety of missions by the CIA. She travels all over the world, from Albania to Hong Kong to the Golden Triangle. She uses her wits and charm to complete her missions, which often involve espionage, sabotage, and rescue operations.
- Working with other agents
Mrs. Pollifax often works with other CIA agents on her missions. She has a close relationship with a CIA agent named Carstairs, who is often her partner on missions. She also works with a British spy named Ian MacAllister.
- Facing danger
Mrs. Pollifax faces danger at every turn on her missions. She is often chased, shot at, and even kidnapped. But she always manages to escape and complete her mission.
Mrs. Pollifax is a skilled and resourceful secret agent. She is a valuable asset to the CIA, and she always gets the job done.
Humor and suspense
The Mrs. Pollifax books are known for their humor and suspense. Gilman has a knack for creating funny and suspenseful situations that keep readers turning the pages.
Humor:
The humor in the Mrs. Pollifax books comes from a variety of sources. First, there is the contrast between Mrs. Pollifax's ordinary appearance and her extraordinary adventures. She is a middle-aged widow from suburban New Jersey who finds herself caught up in international intrigue. This contrast is inherently funny.
Second, Gilman has a gift for creating witty dialogue. Mrs. Pollifax is a sharp-tongued woman who is not afraid to speak her mind. She often gets into humorous exchanges with the other characters in the books.
Third, Gilman uses slapstick comedy to great effect in the Mrs. Pollifax books. Mrs. Pollifax is often involved in hilarious mishaps, such as falling out of trees or getting her clothes caught in machinery.
Suspense:
The Mrs. Pollifax books are also full of suspense. Gilman keeps readers guessing until the very end. She is a master of creating twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Mrs. Pollifax often finds herself in dangerous situations. She is chased, shot at, and even kidnapped. But she always manages to escape and complete her mission.
The suspense in the Mrs. Pollifax books is heightened by Gilman's vivid descriptions of exotic locales. She brings the settings of her books to life, and she makes readers feel like they are right there with Mrs. Pollifax as she travels the world on her missions.
Conclusion:
The Mrs. Pollifax books are a perfect blend of humor and suspense. Gilman's writing is witty and engaging, and she has a knack for creating memorable characters and settings. The books are sure to keep readers entertained from beginning to end.
Strong female protagonist
One of the things that makes the Mrs. Pollifax books so special is their strong female protagonist. Mrs. Pollifax is a middle-aged widow from suburban New Jersey who becomes a secret agent for the CIA. She is a resourceful, determined, and brave woman who is not afraid to take on any challenge.
- Unconventional heroine
Mrs. Pollifax is an unconventional heroine. She is not young, beautiful, or athletic. She is a middle-aged widow who wears sensible shoes and carries a knitting bag. But she is also a force to be reckoned with.
- Resourceful and determined
Mrs. Pollifax is a resourceful and determined woman. She is always finding creative ways to solve problems and overcome obstacles. She is also very determined to complete her missions, no matter how dangerous they may be.
- Brave and courageous
Mrs. Pollifax is a brave and courageous woman. She faces danger head-on and never backs down from a challenge. She is also very compassionate and always willing to help others, even if it puts her own life at risk.
- Role model for women
Mrs. Pollifax is a role model for women of all ages. She shows that it is possible to be adventurous and have a fulfilling life, even after retirement. She also shows that women can be just as capable and courageous as men.
Mrs. Pollifax is a strong and inspiring female protagonist. She is a reminder that anyone can be a hero, regardless of their age, gender, or background.
Adapted into TV series
The Mrs. Pollifax books have been adapted into a television series twice. The first adaptation aired in 1971 and starred Angie Dickinson as Mrs. Pollifax. The second adaptation aired in 1999 and starred Rosalind Russell as Mrs. Pollifax.
- 1971 TV series
The 1971 TV series aired on NBC and ran for one season. It consisted of 22 episodes, each of which was based on one of the Mrs. Pollifax books. Angie Dickinson was praised for her performance as Mrs. Pollifax, and the series was a critical and commercial success.
- 1999 TV series
The 1999 TV series aired on the Hallmark Channel and also ran for one season. It consisted of 12 episodes, each of which was based on one of the Mrs. Pollifax books. Rosalind Russell was also praised for her performance as Mrs. Pollifax, and the series was a critical and commercial success.
- Faithful adaptations
Both TV series were faithful adaptations of the Mrs. Pollifax books. They captured the humor, suspense, and strong female protagonist of the books. The TV series also helped to introduce Mrs. Pollifax to a new generation of fans.
- Availability
Both TV series are available on DVD. The 1971 TV series is also available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
The Mrs. Pollifax TV series are a great way to experience the adventures of Mrs. Pollifax. The series are well-made and entertaining, and they capture the spirit of the books.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Mrs. Pollifax books:
Question 1: In what order should I read the Mrs. Pollifax books?
Answer 1: The Mrs. Pollifax books are best read in order of publication. This will allow you to follow Mrs. Pollifax's adventures chronologically.
Question 2: How many Mrs. Pollifax books are there?
Answer 2: There are 12 Mrs. Pollifax books in total. The first book was published in 1966 and the last book was published in 1986.
Question 3: Who is Mrs. Pollifax?
Answer 3: Mrs. Pollifax is a middle-aged widow from suburban New Jersey who becomes a secret agent for the CIA. She is a resourceful, determined, and brave woman who is not afraid to take on any challenge.
Question 4: What kind of missions does Mrs. Pollifax go on?
Answer 4: Mrs. Pollifax goes on a variety of missions for the CIA. She travels all over the world, from Albania to Hong Kong to the Golden Triangle. Her missions often involve espionage, sabotage, and rescue operations.
Question 5: Are the Mrs. Pollifax books funny?
Answer 5: Yes, the Mrs. Pollifax books are full of humor. Gilman has a knack for creating funny and suspenseful situations that keep readers turning the pages.
Question 6: Are the Mrs. Pollifax books suspenseful?
Answer 6: Yes, the Mrs. Pollifax books are also full of suspense. Gilman keeps readers guessing until the very end. She is a master of creating twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Question 7: Have the Mrs. Pollifax books been adapted into any other media?
Answer 7: Yes, the Mrs. Pollifax books have been adapted into two television series. The first series aired in 1971 and starred Angie Dickinson as Mrs. Pollifax. The second series aired in 1999 and starred Rosalind Russell as Mrs. Pollifax.
Closing Paragraph:
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the Mrs. Pollifax books. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below.
Here are some additional tips for reading and enjoying the Mrs. Pollifax books:
Tips
Here are some tips for reading and enjoying the Mrs. Pollifax books:
Tip 1: Start with the first book in the series.
The Mrs. Pollifax books are best read in order of publication. This will allow you to follow Mrs. Pollifax's adventures chronologically and get to know her character as she develops over the course of the series.
Tip 2: Read the books in order.
The Mrs. Pollifax books are a series, and they build on each other. It is important to read the books in order so that you can understand the characters and the plotlines.
Tip 3: Pay attention to the details.
Gilman is a master of็ป่. She often includes small details that are important to the plot or that help to develop the characters. Pay attention to these details so that you can fully appreciate the story.
Tip 4: Enjoy the humor and suspense.
The Mrs. Pollifax books are full of humor and suspense. Gilman has a knack for creating funny and suspenseful situations that keep readers turning the pages. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Closing Paragraph:
These are just a few tips for reading and enjoying the Mrs. Pollifax books. If you follow these tips, you are sure to have a great time reading this delightful series.
Now that you know more about the Mrs. Pollifax books, you are ready to start reading them. I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a strong female protagonist.
Conclusion
The Mrs. Pollifax books are a delightful series of spy novels that have entertained readers for over 50 years. The books follow the adventures of Mrs. Emily Pollifax, a middle-aged widow from suburban New Jersey who becomes a secret agent for the CIA.
The Mrs. Pollifax books are known for their humor, suspense, and strong female protagonist. Gilman has a knack for creating funny and suspenseful situations that keep readers turning the pages. She also creates a strong and likeable protagonist in Mrs. Pollifax.
The Mrs. Pollifax books are a great choice for anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a strong female protagonist. The books are also a great choice for anyone who is looking for a fun and entertaining read.
Summary of Main Points
- The Mrs. Pollifax books are a series of 12 spy novels written by Dorothy Gilman.
- The books follow the adventures of Mrs. Emily Pollifax, a middle-aged widow from suburban New Jersey who becomes a secret agent for the CIA.
- The books are known for their humor, suspense, and strong female protagonist.
- The Mrs. Pollifax books have been adapted into two television series, one in 1971 and one in 1999.
Closing Message
If you are looking for a fun and entertaining read, I highly recommend the Mrs. Pollifax books. You will not be disappointed.
Thank you for reading!