Stories do not have to be long. In the space of a couple of sentences – or even a page or two – we can see the human heart exposed in a way that is more powerful than in a novel.

In Tiny Tales Alexander McCall Smith explores romance, ambition, kindness and happiness in thirty short stories that range in length from the short to the tiny. The settings are as diverse as the characters – Scotland, England, Australia, the United States – combining to create a rich and always surprising selection. An Australian pope?. A persuasive cosmetic surgeon? The world’s laziest cat. A group of students living together and getting romantically entangled? All human and animal life is here – in miniature.

'This may be a small book in size, but it is mighty of heart and the most wonderful gift for someone who would appreciate a smile or hug. Short and sharp, yet bountiful and considerate - fabulous'

'windows on the world... portraying a whole universe'

'a selection of short, diverse stories and cartoon strips that ripple with humour. Perfect for those without the time, patience or inclination to pick up a novel. It will have readers - especially new ones - coming back for more'

'Exquisitely funny ... I can’t think of any other writer who could come up with anything like this, because as well as being among the funniest he has ever written, these stories are also moving, respectful and kind. Even the Pope himself would, i think, enjoy them'

'It is remarkably clever how, in just a few pages, he [Alexander McCall Smith] can create a complete little world ... a little treasure'

'Charismatic and charming, convincingly demonstrates that length is by no means essential for a captivating read'

'These stories are inspired and accompanied by the thirty magnificent strip Tiny Tales created by McCall Smith and illustrated by the brilliant Iain McIntosh. Each is a little gemstone of observation. Full of romantic heartwarming stories with chance encounters… this is a great little book to keep by your bedside or on a coffee table when you need cheering up. It would also make a lovely Christmas gift'

'Just lovely, they are charming… I loved them… they are brilliant'

'In a world which presently feels polarised and intolerant, these vignettes provide a wonderful antidote to scepticism and anger and are a soothing balm for the heart and soul in these uncertain times'

'Readers can enjoy his wit in small, tasty bites... each charming little story invites the reader to reflect on an aspect of human existence through a brief tale… a kernel of wisdom wrapped in a story'

'Short and sharp, yet bountiful and considerate, Tiny Tales really is the most fabulous book'

'I commended this book to you all, with its brilliant illustrations by Iain McIntosh, some of the funniest cartoons you will ever see, reflecting the humour which 'Sandy' excels in''

Alexander McCall Smith is the author of the highly successful No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series, which has sold over twenty-five million copies. Since then he has devoted his time to the writing of fiction and has seen his various series of books translated into over forty-six languages and become bestsellers throughout the world.

Iain McIntosh has illustrated many of Alexander Alexander McCall Smith’s books, including the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency and 44 Scotland Street series.