Publisher's Synopsis
It's time to unlock the joy of Sherlock.
Step into the past with these timeless tales, beautifully reimagined for modern readers. English teacher Kayte Fawcett lends her expertise to make these stories accessible to everyone, from seasoned literary enthusiasts to English language learners. A Scandal in Bohemia and Other Stories features an array of strong, fascinating females. There's Irene Adler, known as 'the woman' - one of the few characters who proves a match for Holmes' intellect. Described as having "the face of the most beautiful of women, and the mind of the most resolute of men", the glamorous, resourceful former opera singer causes a stir wherever she goes. Does the usually unemotional Holmes fall in love with her? The question has - unsurprisingly - intrigued readers across the decades. Then there's Violet Hunter, who immediately impresses Watson with her self-sufficiency. "She seems to be a young lady who's very well able to take care of herself," he remarks. "She'll need to be," counters Holmes. Violet has a new job as a governess - but with some rather bizarre conditions attached. These include cutting her long hair short, and wearing an electric blue dress belonging to her new employer's daughter. Should she do it? She's determined to, although Holmes isn't happy, and keeps muttering to Watson that it's not a situation he'd like to see a sister of his in. Eugenia Ronder lives a quiet life, in a secluded house, where she spends much of her time reading. Only her landlady and the milkman have ever seen her face, which she keeps hidden beneath a dark, heavy veil. But now her landlady is worried. Eugenia has started crying out in her sleep. "Murder!" she calls. "You cruel beast! You monster!" Who is she? Why does she attract Holmes' sympathy and respect? These retellings showcase updated grammar structures and vocabulary, allowing the stories to be accessible to a wide audience. Their aim is to remain faithful to the magical originals, while affording a new generation of readers the chance to appreciate Holmes' keen intellect, razor-sharp wit - and matchless ability to solve mysteries.
