Tolog Review: The Hounds of Baskerville

The Hounds of Baskerville
by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
reviewed by Hannah Musich

The Hounds of Baskerville by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is an intriguing novel that plays with the mind and senses. It begins with a mysterious man named James Mortimer seeking help from the famous Sherlock Holmes and John Watson. He claims to be the close friend of Sir Charles Baskerville, who had died three months prior. Dr. Mortimer states Sir Charles was presumed to have died without the help of the outside world, but Dr. Mortimer is skeptical of the verdict. Dr. Mortimer then presents a letter explaining the curse of the Baskervilles, which explains the giant hound that has cursed the family for centuries. In the letter, the hound is explained to be a supernatural killer of the Baskerville line; however, Holmes seems doubtful. After deriving more information from Dr. Mortimer about the death of Sir Charles, Holmes dismisses Dr. Mortimer and dives into his famous stealth persona to unravel the truth about this notorious beast.

The Hounds of Baskerville teaches the reader to uncover the truth about common misconceptions. It also encourages the reader to accumulate all facts before making deductions about people or situations. I learned never to let a first impression influence my later perception of a person. I also learned never to read this book at night. The Hounds of Baskerville grips the mind of the reader and does not let go. I truly enjoyed this book, and it encompasses the mystery genre with all of its twists and turns.