The Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey. Summary of the book.

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The Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey

The Daughter of Time is a novel by British author Josephine Tey that was first published in 1951. It is a detective story set in the middle of the 20th century, in which a modern-day police inspector investigates a centuries-old mystery. In the novel, Inspector Alan Grant of Scotland Yard is bedridden due to a broken leg, and while he’s recuperating, he discovers a photograph of King Richard III, which sparks his interest in the mystery of the king’s death. With the help of a young librarian, Grant sets out to prove that Richard III was innocent of the crimes he was accused of. The novel has been praised for its innovative approach to the detective genre and has become a classic in the field.

Plot Summary

The novel opens with Inspector Alan Grant of Scotland Yard, recovering from a broken leg at a hospital. To keep himself occupied, he begins to look at a photograph of King Richard III, which leads him to think about the mystery surrounding the king’s death. He soon starts to suspect that Richard was innocent of the charges against him and that the real culprit was someone else. With the help of a young librarian, Brent Carradine, Grant sets out to prove Richard’s innocence by researching historical records, interviewing experts, and gathering evidence. Along the way, Grant discovers that the truth is murkier than he initially thought and that the culprit may not be who he expected.

Grant eventually comes to the conclusion that Richard was innocent, but he is unable to prove it due to the lack of evidence. In the end, the mystery remains unsolved, and Richard’s reputation remains tarnished. Despite this, Grant’s investigation has sparked renewed interest in Richard III and the mystery of his death.

Teachings

The Daughter of Time teaches the reader a number of lessons. Firstly, it reminds us that truth and justice are not always served in the courts of law. Secondly, it shows us the importance of questioning received wisdom and conventional beliefs, and of using evidence and facts to form our own opinions. Thirdly, it teaches us the value of persistence and determination, as Grant never gives up on his quest to uncover the truth, despite the odds being against him. Finally, it shows us the power of the human mind to uncover the truth, even when all the evidence seems to point in the opposite direction.

Interesting Facts

  • The Daughter of Time is one of Josephine Tey’s most popular novels, and has been adapted for stage, radio, and television.
  • The novel is often considered to be an early example of the locked room detective story.
  • The novel has been praised for its innovative approach to the detective genre and has become a classic in the field.
  • In 1990, the book was voted the best crime novel of all time by the British Crime Writers’ Association.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Daughter of Time about?

The Daughter of Time is a novel by British author Josephine Tey that was first published in 1951. It is a detective story set in the middle of the 20th century, in which a modern-day police inspector investigates a centuries-old mystery. In the novel, Inspector Alan Grant of Scotland Yard is bedridden due to a broken leg, and while he’s recuperating, he discovers a photograph of King Richard III, which sparks his interest in the mystery of the king’s death. With the help of a young librarian, Grant sets out to prove that Richard III was innocent of the crimes he was accused of.

Who wrote The Daughter of Time?

The Daughter of Time is a novel by British author Josephine Tey that was first published in 1951.

What is the main message of The Daughter of Time?

The main message of The Daughter of Time is that truth and justice are not always served in the courts of law, and that it is important to question received wisdom and conventional beliefs. It also teaches us the value of persistence and determination, and the power of the human mind to uncover the truth, even when all the evidence seems to point in the opposite direction.

Is The Daughter of Time a classic?

Yes, The Daughter of Time is considered to be a classic in the detective genre. In 1990, the book was voted the best crime novel of all time by the British Crime Writers’ Association.

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