The Baker Street Peculiars
The Baker Street Peculiars is a supernatural twist on the beloved world of Sherlock Holmes. When a giant lion statue in Trafalgar Square comes to life and wreaks havoc on 1930s London, it seems like the perfect case for the world’s most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes. With an overwhelmed caseload, however, Holmes recruits the help of three precocious young detectives-in-training (and one cunning golden retriever) to solve the mystery. Molly, Rajani, Humphrey, and Wellington (the dog) will have to work together and use all their wits if they are to uncover the truth behind the living statues and save London. But on the legendary Baker Street, nothing is as it seems and their biggest mystery might be the real identity of the famous detective who brought them together. Written by Eisner Award winner Roger Langridge (Thor: The Mighty Avenger, Abigail and the Snowman) and illustrated by Andy Hirsch (Adventure Time, Regular Show), The Baker Street Peculiars is a heartfelt and supernatural twist on the beloved world of Sherlock Holmes.
I have been on something of a Holmes binge lately reading various graphic novels and books that take Doyle’s character and his life into various directions. Thankfully this latest incantation keeps up the good work in how that literary classic is presented both through the written and visual story.
Roger Langridge took something from a classic age and retold it with the same grace and beauty but in a way more modern readers will love. A diverse cast of various belief systems, genders, and races form the ragtag group of characters that will melt your heart as they solve a mystery only Holmes could tell it.
As great as the scene work, dialogue and characters are what adds that extra layer of beauty and depth are the illustrations by Andy Hirsch. They reminded me a bit of the way comics were done back in the age of Richie Rich and Archie. Those amusing and vibrant styles that exude the playfulness and joy captured within the written word on the pages.
It’s definitely a fun adaptation of the Holmes Legend and it’s perfect for all ages to enjoy. It’d be a great gateway for younger audiences who need an introduction to the mystery that is Sherlock Holmes.
Thank you to Netgalley and BOOM! Studios for allowing me to review this book.
*synopsis and pic from amazon.com