"The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax" is a novel by Dorothy Gilman that follows the story of Mrs. Emily Pollifax, a widowed grandmother who seeks adventure beyond her mundane life. Feeling unfulfilled, she decides to join the Central Intelligence Agency as a spy, despite having no prior experience in espionage. As Mrs. Pollifax embarks on her first mission, she finds herself in a series of unexpected and humorous situations. Her resourcefulness and determination help her navigate the challenges of being a spy, showcasing her ability to adapt and thrive in a world of intrigue and danger.