Title: A Study in Scarlet
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Review: In light of the overwhelming number of spin-offs of Sherlock Holmes in the movie theatres and on television, I recommend reading A Study In Scarlet as a way to find your way back to the foundation of the legendary adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. There is much debate among Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts about which is the "best" Sherlock Holmes story but for someone who has not previously read Sherlock Holmes, this is the story I would recommend because it encompasses the origin of the duo as well as a thorough explanation of how Sherlock Holmes can determine who the guilty party is.
If parents give this book to children to read I must incorporate a warning that some of the characterizations and plot may be offensive. The two primary examples of this is the reference to homeless children as
"ragged street Arabs" and the portrayal of Mormon culture throughout the second half of the plot.
Overall though, this is a very good mystery that begins the legendary association between Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson for those readers mature enough to understand that the above references are archaic and improper characterizations of religion in modern times.
Rating: 4
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