No Place Like Holmes by Jason Lethcode

In No Place Like Holmes Jason Lethcode has produced an enjoyable work of fiction for young adults.  In the story young Griffin Sharpe has traveled to England for the summer to spend time with his mysterious uncle.  The story carries the reader through the summer as Griffin gains confidence, survives an adventure, foils the plot of a mastermind criminal, and softens the heart of his uncle.  The story is well written and enjoyable.  It is a crime story however, and therefore might not be for the young preteen set.  There is a crime afoot and some violence results, so parents should be sure that their readers are ready for that sort of thing.  I decided not to share this book with my ten year old who has a tender spirit and I felt would be too upset by the actions of the villain in this story, especially those at the end of the novel.  That said, the character of Griffin models good morals, maturity, and a strong faith.  He provides a good example to readers of how to deal with a relationship with an adult who is not a believer.  These qualities make this book a good read for young readers.  Lethcode does a good job of weaving in Holmes traditional setting, character, and feel to the story.  This will provide a good introduction to later reading of the Holmes books by Doyle.  Normally I shy away from modern works for my kids, but this will likely be one I will happily let them enjoy in their late preteen years.   I am confident No Place Like Holmes will entertain and be an enjoyable experience for them.

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