The Sherlockian by Graham Moore

Hello Bookworms,

            I cannot what to tell you about today’s book! I loved it for so many reasons and I can definitely understand why it became a New York Times Bestseller and has gotten rave reviews from everywhere including the New York Times Book Review, the New York Post, Los Angeles Times, the Dallas Morning News, even Edward award-winning creator of The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Rupert Holmes, just to name a few. It’s The Sherlockian by Graham Moore!!

Summary

January 2010

            Harold isn’t what you’d call an adventurer. He has a normal job, an apartment in California, four friends that he has lunch with once a month, and the one event he looks forward to every year. The big Sherlockian convention in New York! But this year the convention is even more special: Harold, at 29 years of age, is to be the youngest member inducted in to the Baker Street Irregulars since Alex Cale (the greatest Sherlockian alive). A great honor indeed. Soon, something is going to happen that will shatter the monotony of Harold’s life.

October 1900

            Arthur Conan Doyle is doing his best to put “The Great Detective” behind him. “If I had not killed him, he certainly would have killed me” Arthur complains to his friends. Seven years since he threw Holmes off the Reichenbach Falls, people are still mentioning him. But at least at Arthur’s new home in Hindhead, it’s starting to slow down…that is, until now…until this visit to his mailbox to look at the day’s post…what happens next will change Arthur Conan Doyle in ways he never expected.

What do these two events have to do with one another? Find out in The Sherlockian by Graham Moore!

Review

            I’ve been really excited to read The Sherlockian since I read a description of it in Daedelus. Now that I’ve read it: I’m so glad that I did! Here’s why:

            First, there is Harold. Harold is the kind of character with whom we all identify. The person who does enjoy their life, is proud of their accomplishments, and definitely would not mind a break  from the “same old, same old”. Then, he gets the opportunity that all true Sherlockians have dreamed of: a chance to use Holmes’s methods in real life. Following his story from zero to unlikely hero is really a joy.

            Second, the way that Graham Moore writes Arthur Conan Doyle and his friends as a character in his book is truly brilliant. You can really tell that Moore did his research when developing Arthur’s personality for the purposes of The Sherlockian. The writing made me feel like if I had known Arthur Conan Doyle in life that might have been his real personality. That was fun to think about as I read the book.

            Third, the Sherlockian details. Oh my goodness! All the real elements from the Sherlockian world that Graham Moore included were amazing! The Baker Street Journal, the conventions, the societies, London, the museums, The Reichenbach falls, Undershaw as it was in the past and the present, and so much more! Even Jeremy Brett gets a proper mention! I couldn’t help grinning from ear to ear like a complete dork while reading!

            Fourth, the plot twists! Holy cow! While some twists I may have seen coming, others took me completely by surprise! But I love that! I enjoy not being able to predict the entire course of the book even when I’m more than halfway through.

            Fifth, were the beginnings of each chapter. Graham Moore uses quotes from the original Sherlock Holmes canon, Arthur Conan Doyle’s other writings and speeches, friends like Bram Stoker (author of Dracula) etc. to foreshadow at the beginning of each chapter. That was a really fun detail.

There are only a couple of drawbacks with The Sherlockian. First, there is the issue of spoilers. If you are reading through the Sherlock Holmes Canon or some of Agatha Christie’s work (particularly The Murder of Roger Ackroyd) be warned that certain stories will have major details or endings ruined. However, I can’t blame the author because it is necessary to the story and many people that will read this book will have already read most of those mysteries. Second, this book has some very strong language as well as some brutality (only seen after the fact not during). Also, there was a lot that revolved around prostitutes (no sex scenes just their trade and people’s attitude about them) and their side of town, so while this is a great book, it’s definitely not for the children.

            The Sherlockian was a pleasure to read! I definitely recommend this book to adults. If you’re a fan on murder mysteries, history, Arthur Conan Doyle, and especially Sherlock Holmes, you really want to read this book! You’re going to love it!

 

Buy The Sherlockian Here

Until Next Time,

          Lizzie <3

The Book of Epoch by Michael Reiss, Walter Timoshenko, & Darryl Kravitz

Hello Bookworms,

            Today I have a new book review for you. This book is from the Science Fiction/Fantasy genre. Let’s take a look at The Book of Epoch.

Summary

            For Mac, life has been pretty difficult. His father died when he was young and his mother is in a coma. Fortunately, he has his Grandma Jen to live with and his friends Benny and Chip. Then there’s Ally. The gorgeous girl he gets to admire at school every day. Unfortunately, every night, Mac has horrible nightmares about a creature called the Morphanon. What Mac is about to realize is that his dreams are much more than dreams, and Mac is chosen to do something about them.

Review

            This book started off great. It was a sweet story about a boy whose life hasn’t been what he hoped who soon starts an adventure that is more amazing than anything he has ever played in the video games that he and his friend Benny enjoy.  But soon, I found that the enjoyment I had for the story was replaced by confusion and frustration. The confusion was brought on by the fact that the longer you read, the more twisted the story becomes. If you aren’t paying close attention, sometimes you’ll get lost. It wasn’t helped by the fact that while some stories start you off with a sort of introduction into what kind of world you’re dealing with, this one sort of drops you in the middle of the futuristic storyline to fend for yourself.

            Another source of confusion was the disclaimer vs. the story. At the beginning of the book, you’ll find a disclaimer saying (in essence) that anything bearing resemblance to people, places, or other stories is purely coincidental. However, as you read, you will find that much of the story’s places, people, and even parts of the plot are taken from literally everywhere. While the parodies of McDonald’s, Stephen Hawking, etc. were cute, the sections of the story taken from (as best as I can tell) the Bible, Mythology, the Harry Potter Series (including the presence of a large chamber and a giant serpent, an invisibility cloak, a boy dealing with the absence of his parents and becoming “the chosen one” etc.) and other famous books and literature greatly distracted from the overall story and lowered the quality of the story for me.

            A huge source of frustration for me was the sections taken from the Bible and twisted. I’m never a fan of taking the Bible and pretending it’s all a myth. That, again, lowered the quality of the story for me.

            Finally, there is the issue of a couple of the illustrations in the book. There was a mythical female character that had her own illustrations in the book. Since the book is aimed at young people, the illustration was way too mature (i.e. she was in a dress that was much closer to lingerie than clothing. Not a drawing I’d be thrilled to catch an elementary or middle school boy staring at in his book).

            I have no doubt that the authors know great work when they see it. They also know how to tell a story. I also see a lot of evidence of creativity. I would like to see an entirely original story to see what the authors can do. However, I do not recommend The Book of Epoch.

 

The Red-Headed League by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Hello Bookworms!,

            During the semesters at college it is hard to be able to read a book on top of all the work, studying, interning, and textbook reading, so to keep me reading during the semester, I have been taking time every so often to read one of short stories from the Sherlock Holmes canon. A few weeks ago, I posted my thoughts on A Scandal in Bohemia. This time I will be examining The Red-Headed League.

Summary:

            A new organization is brewing in London. The red-headed league. The league has a job opening. Only red-heads need apply and only a red-head with the right shade of red hair will be selected. Miraculously, Mr. Jabez Wilson, was perfect for the job. Then, just as soon as it started, the job and the league are dissolved. Something is amiss. Can Sherlock Holmes figure it out and find the culprit? Find out in The Red-Headed League by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

original illustration by Sidney Paget

 

Review:

            The Red-Headed league was an interesting tale. In typical Sherlock Holmes style, it seems that it will be impossible to solve the mystery and then suddenly Sherlock has it and will weave an intricate trap to catch the culprit red-handed! One of my favorite parts of the story though is the intimate look we get into Sherlock Holmes and his love for music. Holmes takes a little time during the story to listen to the music being played at St. James Hall. I find Dr. Watson’s description of watching his friend “wrapped in the most perfect happiness, gently waving his long thin fingers in time to the music, while his gentle smiling face and his languid dreamy eyes were as unlike those of Sherlock Holmes the sleuth hound” is a beautiful and rare glimpse into Sherlock Holmes the man and is likely my favorite part in the whole story. I do recommend this story though for anyone interested in the original Sherlock Holmes works by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

 

**This is the book I am using to read the Sherlock Holmes stories. I like the layout of the book, the only drawback is that it is not a complete version of the original Sherlock Holmes works some of the short stories were not included. However, it does include the whole novel “The Hounds of Baskervilles” and the short stories are published in the same fashion as they originally were in The Strand with all the illustrations by Sidney Paget. At just $10 I recommend it to anyone who wants to become acquainted with the original Sherlock Holmes works for the first time like myself.

You can buy the book here

Until next time,
               Lizzie <3

International Book Giving Day!!

 

Hello Bookworms!!!

        As we all know, February the 14^th is Valentine’s Day and its coming up fast. People are out buying flowers, candies, cards, jewelry, etc. for their loved ones to commemorate the day. But there is another holiday that deserves some attention on February 14^th.

        It is not Valentine’s Day all over the world, however, it is INTERNATIONAL BOOK GIVING DAY!!!!

What is International Book Giving Day?

        International Book Giving Day is a day dedicated to putting books in the hands of children all over the world. We know that reading improves a child’s vocabulary, imagination, reading/writing/and speaking skills, as well as improving their memory allowing them to retain more information and helping them do better in school. The aim of IBGD is to get people to help children by giving them books to read. The best part is it’s super simple to do!! You don’t have to take a lot of time or even a lot of money!

How do I participate?

        All you have to do is find a way to put a book in the hands of a child. There are infinite ways that you can do that but here are a few examples that might help get your creative juices flowing:

Give a book to your children or grandchildren

Give a book to the neighbor-kids (with their parents permission of course)

Buy some books for the local school/daycare/after-school program

Leave a book in the children’s area of the doctor’s office (may need to ask the office staff for permission first but I don’t think they’ll mind as long as you’ve asked.)

Donate your child’s old books that they don’t like anymore (that are in good condition) to any charity that sends books to children whose families/communities cannot afford them.

        *Usually the charities can be found by looking online or asking your local community offices like the school social worker or office staff (usually the lower grades like primary and elementary will be more aware because more charities target young children), city hall, etc.

Want more information?

There are several ways to get information and updates in regards to International Book Giving Day.

First, I recommend their website for all you need to know about this movement and to sign your name to the list of people from all over the world who are going to give books (signing the list does not obligate you to do anything, or sign you up for any fees, you may choose to be shown as anonymous. The organizers would just like to know how many people and from what countries will books be given.)

Second, I recommend following the organizers on Twitter @bookgivingday. You will see all sorts of stories, facts, print outs and more from the book giving day organizers. You can find them by searching their name or find their tweets by searching the hashtag #giveabook.

I personally am planning to participate by giving books to the children in my class as a part of their take home gift bags during their Valentine’s Day party. I hope you will participate too. Books can bring joy and so many mental benefits to our kids. If kids can learn to enjoy reading they have a resource that they can use for life as well as a form of entertainment that will never run out. But all of the benefits start with the child having a book in their hands. You can help start the whole process, give a book on the 14^th. J

Until Next Time,

        Lizzie <3

Why I Love Sherlock Holmes

Hello Bookworms,

            If you have been following my blog, you know that I have been reading through the Sherlock Holmes canon (the original stories and novels by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle). After I read each one, I provide a review and my thoughts on each story. It occurred to me recently however, that I have never explained why I enjoy the Sherlock Holmes stories or why I want others to read them, so here goes! J

Why I love Sherlock Holmes

            I love a good mystery story, however writers of books and television programs have a tendency to get too cookie cutter with their stories. You know what I mean, after a while you can sit down to any episode/book that you’re enjoying and go “that character is going to die either by being shot stabbed or poisoned, those three characters are going to be suspects, and the third suspect did it.” And then you sit back and watch exactly what you predicted unfold. All too often, when writers try to “think outside the box” they turn to the “spy theme” or to blood and gore to an extreme. 

            When I was young (around nine or ten) I was shown an episode of what I have seen termed as “Granada Holmes”. I am talking about the Sherlock Holmes series featuring Jeremy Brett and Edward Hardwicke. The episode was The Speckled Band. Never before had I seen a story so intriguing. Even that young I remember thinking “okay, the girl died of something in her room so let’s just see where the person could have entered from” I remembered thinking that, at best, there might be a secret hidden panel in the wall. But when Sherlock Holmes declared that no one could have entered that room and that that wasn’t the explanation, I was hooked. I won’t spoil the end for those of you who haven’t read/seen it but the conclusion was unlike any mystery I had ever encountered before. I remembered that episode. I didn’t remember Jeremy Brett’s name, or Sherlock Holmes for that matter at that age, but I remembered the show I saw and wanted more. Soon I had found a children’s classic of Sherlock Holmes with about five of the most famous cases in it, and I sat down and read the whole thing that night.

Jeremy Brett and Edward Hardwicke "The Speckled Band"

 

            I saw on Twitter that someone asked the Baker Street Babes (I love their account and recommend that if you love any incarnation of Sherlock Holmes, old or new, that you follow them @BakerStBabes ) what story would you use if you wanted to hook someone on the original Sherlock Holmes stories. They said The Speckled Band. I couldn’t agree more, that’s what did it for me. Over the years Sherlock Holmes had taken a back seat, but I never forgot about The Speckled Band and that series. “Granada Holmes” coupled with the new series on Masterpiece PBS and the BBC, Sherlock, has given me an interest in the original writings and now I’m reading through the whole series.  I recently had the pleasure of reading The Speckled Band again and I cannot wait to share my thoughts with all of you.

Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman in "Sherlock"

 

Why do I think the Sherlock Holmes series is good for others to read?

            There are two major reasons why I think Sherlock Holmes should be on your bucket list of books:

            First, the stories are short. There are 56 short stories all together in the Sherlock Holmes stories and none of them are incredibly long. These are stories that you can read while travelling, on your lunch break at work, waiting in a doctor’s office, and more. You get an entire mystery and an epic conclusion in a lot less time making them ideal to read in all sorts of places without getting bored. I love to read but sometimes I don’t have enough time for a full novel during the college semester so they are a great way for me to get to read during when my schedule gets hectic.

            Second, the stories are exciting. And not just exciting for a person who likes to read! Moms, wives, sisters, friends, lend me your ears (or eyes since your reading this  J ). I know that it is difficult getting our sons, husbands, brothers, or male friends to read, especially younger boys because they like to get up and get moving. But we also know that their development is furthered if they can enjoy reading something. Usually, if a book isn’t written on a subject they already like, such as sports or cars, it needs to be exciting to keep their attention. Not only are the short stories a good length, but the conclusions are exciting. Things happen that you will never see coming. The explanations of these problems are like nothing they’ve ever read before. I think that these will help the male reader in your life learn to enjoy reading just a little bit more.

A word of caution

            Parents, I urge you to allow your kids to read the Sherlock Holmes stories, but I also urge you to pay attention to which ones their reading. Remember that Sherlock Holmes was written by an adult largely for other adults to read. Some of the stories have details that aren’t suitable for children such as one story I have read that takes place largely in an opium den, or the fact that Sherlock Holmes uses drugs and it becomes a topic of conversation. That being said, for your children I STRONGLY recommend that you start them on books of Sherlock Holmes that are specifically geared for children like the one that I read when I was young, because their editors have done the work for you. They have chosen the stories that leave out themes that aren’t suitable for children and edited out any other part that may be unsuitable for them as well.

This is the book I have been reading through:

What’s good about it:

It was about $10 and it prints the stories the way you would have seen them in the original Stand Magazine prints including the illustrations by Sidney Paget. I love getting to see the stories in this context and for that reason I am glad that it is a part of my collection.

What Does it lack?:

This collection is missing some of the stories and three of the novels. You remember that earlier I mentioned that there are 56 short stories and 4 novels in the Sherlock Holmes series. This collection only features 37 of the short stories and 1 of the novels.

You can buy this one on Amazon here

This is the recent addition to my collection that I am planning to use:

 

What’s good about it?

This book is fairly cheap. You can buy it online at a whole range of prices, but I got mine on Amazon from PBS’s selling account for about $7.48. I’ve seen it through the Amazon sellers for about $12 (still not a bad price) just shop around a little and you’ll find a copy and a good price for you. This collection also has all 56 stories and all 4 novels. There are two volumes in the box to make this possible and both books are travel size making them easy to take with you anywhere.

What does it lack?

The only thing that I have seen as lacking in this book set thus far is that the illustrations have been removed.

You can find it on Amazon here

I was also able to find the book I used as a child for those parents who want to start their children on the Sherlock Holmes.

 

What’s good about it?

The editing that I mentioned earlier has been done for you. It’s cheap. It’s slim to it’s easy to take in a travel bag or backpack.

What does it lack?

There are only a few stories in it, but it’s a great starter book for kids.

You can buy it here

 

Until next time,

            Lizzie <3

Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta

Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta

Hello Bookworms!,

          Today I have a new review of the first book in a three book series. Book 1 was published this year and books 2 and 3 are going to be published in 2014. The first book is called Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta.

Summary

          Julia’s never had a good father in her life. Her father was an abusive, hatesome man that was an outspoken atheist (which brought much condemnation to his family). Especially from the church. After his death, Julia’s favorite entertainment was to go spend time with her best friend Elizabeth and their favorite pair of brothers, Edward and Henry. Julia’s hope for a happier life came in the form of a secret engagement to Edward…but when her mother caught wind of it, she wasn’t allowed to see him. Julia held hope, however, that her and Edward’s love was strong enough to weather the storm. Besides, they kept in touch through Elizabeth’s letters.

          When Julia’s mother suddenly dies, Julia’s world is thrown into turmoil and she must depend on Elizabeth and her…interesting mother. What Julia did not count on was that everything else in her life would fall apart and the host of colorful, and sinister, characters that will take advantage of her and her friends….Can Julia survive the whirlwind? And what of Edward? Was their love strong enough?

Review

          I enjoyed the Born of Persuasion. It was fast-paced and intriguing thrill-ride through the good, bad, and ugly of society and the imperfect people that inhabited it. I think that most young adults and adults would like it. I must admit that there were twists and turns that I never saw coming in this book and I love that. Its not as much fun to read a book that is always predictable. Predictability is shattered in Jessica Dotta’s writing.

          I will say that there is a fair amount of adult content (nothing graphic) that makes the book mostly suitable for young adults and older. I wouldn’t really give it to a middle school or junior high students or anyone younger than that.

          This book was a wonderful reminder about how Christians should not act when approaching non-Christians. Especially those who have different beliefs from our own. The conflict that Julia faces in connection with the judgmental, condemning, unforgiving attitude of her former parish pastor is something that I think most Christians could learn from. As Beth Moore put it, “In a world of hammers looking for nails, a little gentleness can be breathtaking”.

          This book is an emotional whirlwind. There is anger, fear, passion, tears, joy, and more! I read this book in a hurry (just a few days in a row) and felt like I had been dragged through the emotional wringer! If you are one who gets really emotionally invested in a book, you may want to be prepared to put the book down periodically, shift your focus for a while, and then come back to it.

          This three book series started at a level of intensity that many series’ end. I was actually physically tense while reading the climactic ending! I think this book could give you the adrenaline rush that a good thriller can give! I’m really interested to see to what new levels the next 2 books will be taken! I recommend Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta to all you young adult and adult adrenaline junkie bookworms out there!

 

Links to buy:

Amazon.com

 

Until Next Time,

                 Lizzie <3

 

Birds of the Nile by N.E. David

Hello bookworms,

            First of all, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I hope you all had very merry Christmases and happy new years celebrations! This year there are going to be reviews, interviews, interest articles, and more! In between my classes and internship I will be reading, reading, reading! I hope you all will be reading too!

            I personally have begun the Goodreads reading challenge for 2014 and have pledged to read 25 books! J I hope I can make the goal and will update you on my progress. But for now, let’s look at the first review on the new year! Birds of the Nile by N.E. David

Summary

            Michael Blake has had a long career with the British embassy, but now he is turning 60 and must retire. This isn’t really what Blake had planned for. He knew it was coming yet he hadn’t really planned for all the extra time. So, to help pass the time, Blake decides to take a boat trip up the Nile and do some bird watching.

            Blake did not expect to become attached to anyone on this boat trip, least of all a Malaysian girl in her twenties…but he did in a BIG way. Michael Blake who has done his best not to get overly involved in the affairs of others is about to find himself right in the middle of a bloody political uprising all in the hopes of seeing travelling twenty-something smile.

Review

            Birds of the Nile is not my usual type of book. It has heavy political themes and is set in the modern day. However, I was interested in giving it a try.

            For those who love to travel or bird watch Birds of the Nile may be of interest to you. Nick (the “N” in author N.E. David, for those who don’t know ;) ) describes the Egyptian landscape, landmarks, and exotic birds of the Nile area in a way that I think will be fun for travellers and bird-watchers. Not to mention that ninety percent of the book takes place aboard the cruise ship (which may also appeal to travellers and those who have taken long boat trips before).

            There is a wonderful cast of characters including Blake, Carpenter, Miss Malaysia, Reda Eldasouky, Ira and Mrs. Biltmore, Joan, David, Janet, Keith, and many more. And the thoughts that go through Mr. Blake’s head as he encounters the ships passengers and all their eccentricities models what many people think in real life. (Which I think is a particular specialty of Mr. David’s).

            I do have one major complaint in reference to a particular character. Mrs. Biltmore from Baltimore. She and her husband Ira Biltmore are the only Americans in Mr. David’s story (no that’s not the complaint J I’m about to explain). It seemed to me that, in many parts of the book, N. E. David went out of his way to write hateful comments in reference to Mrs. Biltmore. He ridicules her appearance, makes her an annoying character for much of the book, and makes many statements to the effect that her husband Ira is pretty much whipped and subjective to her every whim. That being said, I understand that there are people like this everywhere, including America (I’ve met a few myself), but it seems that out of all his characters N.E. David particularly attacks the American couple, especially the wife. When he gives reference to them, his writing, at times, takes a tone of disgust. While the character Michael Blake first feels superior to many including his own countrymen, he seems to accept all the other characters, but there is always a certain tone towards the American couple. Not to mention that every time America as a country is mentioned it is mentioned in a negative light. As an American woman myself I have to admit that several times I was offended and hurt by the comments. I like Mr. David and his stories and I hope this does not reflect his attitude towards Americans in general. Every person, American or otherwise, has a right to be accepted or not by others on a case by case basis rather than to be totally rejected by any failings of their counterparts.  (I’ll get off my soapbox now ;) )

            Mr. David told me in an interview once that his inspiration comes from what he sees around him such as a newspaper article about a WWII soldier’s bag that was found with a letter inside. To write about things that actually happen in life in a story format is a style of writing that N.E. David seems to enjoy. That being said I think he can be proud of this novel because he has done just that. BIRDS OF THE NILE is available for e-readers and in paperback online and in stores.

 

 

Until next time,

            Lizzie <3