An illustrated adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic Sherlock Holmes mystery – at an easy-to-read level for readers of all ages! Also includes a QR code for the free audiobook!
Mr Robert Adair was killed last night at his mansion in Park Lane. He had spent the evening gambling and his winnings were still on the table. His door was locked from the inside and his window was left open …
It has been three years since the death of Sherlock Holmes. Watson is now solving mysteries solo and he’s about to face his toughest one yet: the impossible murder of Mr Adair. What Watson doesn’t know is that this curious case will unearth secrets from beyond the grave …
About the Author :
Sir Arthur Ignatius Conan Doyle was a British writer best known for his detective fiction featuring the character Sherlock Holmes. Doyle was a prolific writer; his non-Sherlockian works include fantasy and science fiction stories about Professor Challenger and humorous stories about the Napoleonic soldier Brigadier Gerard, as well as plays, romances, poetry, non-fiction and historical novels. Stephanie was born in England before emigrating to Australia – and later New Zealand – with her family, where she trained as a nurse. Whilst back in England on holiday, she met and married her husband, had a daughter and settled down.
Stephanie’s lifelong interest in writing became more serious when her first children’s book, Avalanche, was published in the 1980s. Since then, she has had around forty children’s books published, and has also published an historical novella for adults. Stephanie works closely with schools, she tutors for two writing schools and occasionally runs writing workshops for adults.
Stephanie joined Sweet Cherry Publishing in 2013 with her Mr Pattacake series, and she has since written The Dinosaur Detectives.
Stephanie currently lives in the Chiltern Hills in Buckinghamshire.
Arianna is a freelance illustrator based in Florence, Italy, where she majored in Entertainment Design at Nemo Academy. Since then she has worked as 2D artist with Italian independent video game studios. The Sherlock Holmes series is her debut novel as an illustrator for Children's books.
Review :
Perfect for readers 8+ this is an accessible version of the classic story. Filled with great illustrations this would appeal to those venturing into chapter books and enjoy a good mystery!
I've said it before, and I'll say it again and again and again; I adore these editions of such iconic stories! The Empty House has always been one of Conan Doyle's best, in my opinion, purely for the way it made me feel when I first read it. That combined with the beautiful illustrations this edition offers makes for a wonderful read and something that younger readers can enjoy as an entry into the world of Sherlock Holmes. The sooner I get my hands on a full set of these the better!
(...)I am amazed how this adaptation reads so well and clearly conveys the story; the nuances of Holmes and Watson and reflections those special relationships with Mrs Hudson and Inspector Lestrade.
The artwork and drawings which accompany the story also help bring the story alive and provide context and points of reference. Indeed, time is taken out to provide pen portraits and definitions. I particularly liked the use of newspaper headlines to expand and deepen the mystery.
I am certain these books in this series will become a collector's item and not only look good on your child’s bookcase but be read over and over again with joy and wonderment.
Sherlock Holmes fans can rest assured that his legacy lives on. Now, children of all ages can learn about Holmes and Watson. Even though Watson must now solve crimes on his own, it seems Holmes will still have the final say in one way or another. This is a great book that is fast-paced and written for younger readers, however, adults will enjoy it just as much. I am so happy that I had the chance to read this cute novel.
While clearly adapted for children, the story was not dumbed down in any particular manner. The illustrations added some intrigue, as you want to look at them for some clues to solve it yourself! The book is humorous and smart, a great mystery for any age.
"still holds true to the charm and mystery of everything you would expect from a story about Sherlock Holmes and John Watson. A highly enjoyable murder mystery for anyone who loves to read about Sherlock Holmes and John Watson."
Another brilliant retelling of a Sherlock Holmes tale aimed at a younger audience. There are quite a few in this series now and they are well worth reading and putting in the library.
