Voice of Youth Advocates

In this sequel to Eye of the Crow (Tundra, 2007/VOYA February 2008), young Sherlock Holmes witnesses the dramatic fall of a high-trapeze artist. Holmes realizes that the aerialist's fall was no accident and sets out to solve the crime. Holmes is both honoring his vow to seek justice after the death of his mother and hoping to earn reward money. He needs money to help his new employer and landlord, the alchemist Sigerson Bell, and to pay for university. Holmes's investigation takes him through the dangerous world of trapeze artists and into the den of the most perilous thieves in London. He reconnects with Irene Doyle, whom he is trying to shun for her own good, and Malefactor, the young crime lord. He also tangles with Inspector Lestrade, who stole the credit for Holmes's first case. This book is even better than the first. Holmes is evolving into his adult persona, becoming more insular while gaining the vast array of knowledge for which his grown-up self is famous. The mystery is solid, the characters compelling, and the historical background is convincing but not overwhelming. Peacock paints a vivid picture of Victorian England, including interesting details about the criminal underground and the lives of the high-trapeze performers in this strong addition to a very promising series. It will appeal to historical mystery readers, but will particularly please fans of the first book and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.-Heather Pittman.

School Library Journal (Tue Jul 01 00:00:00 CDT 2008)

Gr 6-8 This sequel to Eye of the Crow (Tundra, 2007) continues as Sherlock Holmes, 13, tries to prove his worth to Scotland Yard and become "a new sort of London detective, the scourge of every villain." Witnessing the tragic fall of a famous trapeze artist, he utilizes his limited resources, including a new mentor who happens to be a brilliant alchemist, and his own deductive skills to convince others that the fall was no accident. Sherlock pursues the case doggedly, even enlisting the help of a young street boss named Malefactor. The book ends with the young protagonist determined to survive alone, distancing himself from all friends. This is an exciting mystery, well written and fast paced, but reluctant readers may have a hard time adjusting to the language. Jessica Miller, New Britain Public Library, CT

Horn Book (Thu Apr 01 00:00:00 CDT 2010)

According to Chinese tradition, hungry ghosts are appeased with food. So, while these grisly ghost stories introduce various elements of Chinese history and culture, Chinese cuisine also plays a key role. The collection offers up enough fright--and food--to keep readers returning for seconds. Each tale is followed by historical notes and a recipe; together they represent an eight-course banquet.