Sherlock Holmes for Dummies

Get a comprehensive guide to this important literary figure and his author.
A classic literary character, Sherlock Holmes has fascinated readers for decades -- from his repartee with Dr. Watson and his unparalleled powers of deduction to the settings, themes, and villains of the stories. Now, this friendly guide offers a clear introduction to this beloved figure and his author, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, presenting new insight into the detective stories and crime scene analysis that have has made Sherlock Holmes famous.
Inside you'll find easy-to-understand yet thorough information on the characters, recurring themes, and locations, and social context of the Sherlock Holmes stories, the relationship of these stories to literature, and the forensics and detective work they feature. You'll also learn about the life of the author.
Better understand and enjoy this influential literary character with this plain-English guide.
Gain insight on these classic Doyle tales -- from the classic Hound of the Baskervilles to the lesser-known short stories to Holmes stories written by other mystery writers.
Explore the appearance of Sherlock Holmes on film, TV, and stage.
Examine Holmes today -- from the ever-expanding network of fans worldwide to story locations that fans can visit.
It's elementary! Sherlock Holmes For Dummies is an indispensable guide for students and fans alike!

Steven Doyle is co-founder of Wessex Press/Gasogene Books, a small press specializing in Sherlock Holmes books, including the landmark Sherlock Holmes Reference Library. David A. Crowder is the author or co-author of several For Dummies titles.

Introduction.
Part I: Elementary Beginnings and Background.
Chapter 1: A Snapshot of Sherlock Holmes and the Stories That Made Him Famous.
Chapter 2: The Great Detective and His Life in Crime.
Chapter 3: Arthur Conan Doyle: The Doctor Who Created the Detective.
Chapter 4: Life in the Days of London Fog.
Part II: What a Bunch of Characters!
Chapter 5: Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.
Chapter 6: Cops, Landladies, and Others: The Supporting Characters.
Chapter 7: Villains, Victims, and Damsels in Distress.
Part III: Holmes and His Adventures.
Chapter 8: The “Typical” Sherlock Holmes Story.
Chapter 9: Delving into “The Hound of the Baskervilles”.
Chapter 10: The Gaslight Goes Away: The “Modern” Stories.
Chapter 11: Common Themes and Threads.
Chapter 12: The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes.
Part IV: Beyond Baker Street.
Chapter 13: The Sincerest Form of Flattery.
Chapter 14: Adapting Holmes for Stage and Screen.
Chapter 15: Communities of Sherlockians.
Part V: The Part of Tens.
Chapter 16: Ten Unsolved Mysteries.
Chapter 17: Ten Sherlockian Places to Visit.
Chapter 18: Ten Books Every Sherlockian Should Have.
Chapter 19: Ten Notable Quotes and Passages.
Appendix: Active Sherlock Holmes Societies in North America.
Index.