Written by Dave Thompson
SUMMARY:
Published by Applause Theatre & Cinema Books in 2013, this 283-page paperback reference guide pitches itself as “all that’s left to know about the world’s greatest private detective.” Beginning with author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s life, author Dave Thompson commences with discussing Holmes’ literary history, as well as how he inspired a host of rival fictional detectives. A number of the Holmes short stories and novels are summarized and reflected upon. Thompson includes sections on how a real London would have looked to Holmes, as well as some of the grim British true crime cases that sorely needed a real-life Holmes.
Further, Thompson points out the changes in Conan Doyle’s life while he was churning out subsequent waves of new Holmes mysteries. Even after Doyle permanently shelfed Holmes, Thompson looks at Doyle’s later life, as he dabbled in researching psychic phenomena and feuded with purported ‘ghost hunter’ Harry Price.
Thompson also chronicles the various Holmes adaptations, including notable films and TV series. In his analysis, the author provides brief biographies of Holmes actors Basil Rathbone, Peter Cushing, and Jeremy Brett. The author’s assessment of the BBC’s Sherlock TV series is included. Other literary adaptations of Holmes (or likely inspired by the character) are given a close look by Thompson. The author concludes with mentioning a ‘possible’ encounter between Doyle’s alleged ghost and his ex-nemesis, Harry Price, at a séance in 1930.
REVIEW:
Though Thompson delves into the Holmes phenomenon, this book is more like a FAQ re: Conan Doyle’s resentful existence in Holmes’ shadow. To his credit, Thompson’s narrative is pretty solid. If one is looking for some rare tidbits re: Holmes, this book is a decent choice. Yet, if the readers really want more of a glimpse into Conan Doyle’s world and how his own private life was impacted by Holmes’ unfathomable public success, Sherlock Holmes FAQ proves an intriguing read. Although this book isn’t necessarily a keeper for the bookshelf, it’s at least worth perusing, if only for curiosity’s sake.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES:
A four-page appendix catalogs Doyle’s bibliography. This book’s own bibliography is also included, as is a five-page index. A neat assortment of photos accompany the text, including some reprints of artist Sidney Paget’s The Strand illustrations and a rare glimpse of early 20th Century stage actor William Gillette in his stint as Holmes.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars
