Book Review: Imogene and the Case of the Missing Pearls

I am always happy to hear of a new Holmes pastiche, but what really gets me excited is when it is a pastiche aimed at younger readers. To make certain that the character of Sherlock holmes remains the world's most known literary figure, it is important to introduce young readers to the character at an early age. Author Elizabeth Varadan ensures that a number of young readers, particularly upper elementary and middle school aged children, will get to know Sherlock Holmes when they solve a case alongside a plucky ten year old girl in her new novel, Imogene and the Case of the Missing Pearls.

The book follows the adventure of Imogene, a bored, upper class girl who can't stand her governess nor her bratty cousins. After the loathsome cousins visit, her mother's pearls go missing. Who could have taken them? Sherlock Holmes is hired by Imogene's father and of course, with a world famous detective in her home, Imogene can't help but join the case.

I was particularly impressed with Ms. Varadan's character descriptions. Miss Mullin, the crabby governess, in particular, stands out as she torments poor Imogene and thinks detective work is below the status of the girl. Rusty, a boy who assists Sherlock Holmes, also stands out with his thick Cockney accent. Though he's never called an Irregular, he would fit in perfectly by Wiggins' side.

This is a fun, well written book that will please Holmes fans of all ages. My only complaint, and this is a minor one, is that I never really understood why Holmes took such an ordinary case as solving the whereabouts of a pearl necklace. Was there some other reason which compelled Holmes to work with Imogene's family beyond payment?

Fortunately, that question may be answered as Mrs. Varadan plans on more adventures with Imogene, Rusty, and of course, Sherlock Holmes. This 39 year old kid is looking forward to the next one.