An interesting twist on a seemingly normal 'Sherlock Holmes' story. A young boy, Garrett, goes to live with his uncle for the summer. He anticipates that his uncle is the legendary Sherlock Holmes, but is disappointed to find out his uncle lives only next door to Holmes & doesn't actually like to associate with him. Garrett & his uncle are both sleuths, and very quickly get their first case. Through persistence & hard work, they work together to thwart the criminal (who turns out to be Moriarty's cousin) and save Holmes at the same time!This book does bring in Christian elements, mainly when Garrett prays because of a difficult situation. Sometimes the elements seem quite forced but at other times, they seem more natural. This may distract some readers, but overall I think it works out alright in the end.I thought this was a good book, but nothing fantastic. It would be a good book for middle grade readers who enjoy mysteries & Sherlock Holmes - the book even includes 2 mini-mysteries at the end for the reader to test their detective skills on! I almost stopped reading this book because of all the Christian references and the exceedingly unpleasant, curmudgeonly uncle, but pressed on and am glad I did as the story was quite good, though the explanation towards the end of why the uncle acted that way just didn't cut it for me. We are introduced to a young boy who comes to stay with this uncle for the summer and who lives near Sherlock Holmes. A wild, exciting and scary ride follows him as he uncovers clues to an intriguing mystery, the author giving a nod along the way to Father Brown and Laurie King's Sherlock Holmes. There are also mini-mysteries at the end of the story for the young reader to solve and some reading questions. An enjoyable, light read.
What do You think about No Place Like Holmes (2011)?
Warren County Library Online Teen Book Club for week of July 4. Read to p. 25...so far, so good!
—mathfreak421
Just an ok book. Fun steampunk but a little heavy on the Christian religion for my taste.
—Rosebud
A really excellent book for kids, and a fun read for grownups, too.
—kimm
Great book for the 4th to 8th grader. Or their moms!
—CBH
