Subject
Doyle, Arthur Conan, 1859-1930 -- Parodies, imitations, etc. Books
Best books
Maurice Leblanc
Arsène Lupin versus Herlock Sholmes
"Arsène Lupin versus Herlock Sholmes" by Maurice Leblanc is a collection of stories published in 1908. This work pits France's gentleman thief Arsène Lupin against the brilliant detective Herlock Sholmes, a thinly veiled version of Sherlock Holmes. Through two adventures involving stolen lottery tickets, precious diamonds, and mysterious lamps, the master criminal and the detective engage in an elaborate game of cat-and-mouse across Paris. Their encounters feature daring escapes, clever traps, and unexpected twists as each man attempts to outwit the other.
John Kendrick Bangs
The Pursuit of the House-Boat
"The Pursuit of the House-Boat" by John Kendrick Bangs is a humorous literary work written in the early 20th century. This book serves as a satirical sequel to Bangs' earlier story, "A House-Boat on the Styx," and features the comedic adventures of a club of literary and historical figures who are now shades in the afterlife. The central crisis revolves around the theft of their beloved house-boat by the infamous pirate Captain Kidd, leading to a quest to rescue both their floating clubhouse and the women who have also been taken. The opening of the narrative introduces the members of the Associated Shades—such figures as Sir Walter Raleigh, Socrates, and Cleopatra—gathered to discuss the alarming abduction of their house-boat and its inhabitants. As panic sets in, the characters exhibit their distinct personalities and engage in witty banter while deciding on actions to retrieve what is rightfully theirs. The arrival of a mysterious stranger, later revealed to be Sherlock Holmes, adds intrigue to their deliberations as he proposes a well-reasoned approach to track down Kidd and recover their property. The tone is lighthearted, filled with clever dialogue and comedic misunderstandings, setting the stage for an entertaining tale of pursuit and adventure.
Herbert Beeman
Some Adventures of Mr. Surelock Keys
"Some Adventures of Mr. Surelock Keys" by Herbert Beeman is a collection of humorous detective stories written in the early 20th century. The book features the eccentric detective Mr. Surelock Keys, who takes on a series of whimsical cases alongside his companion. Its likely topic involves light-hearted mysteries set against a backdrop of comedic scenarios, all while emulating the classic detective genre popularized by Arthur Conan Doyle. Throughout the book, readers are introduced to a number of amusing cases that showcase Keys’ unique investigation techniques and quirky personality. The tales include the resolution of a mysterious car shooting incident, the perplexities faced by an irate householder disputing a water bill, and even the antics surrounding a Christmas wish from a small boy believing in Santa Claus. With a mix of clever deductions and humorous misunderstandings, the narratives highlight Keys' ability to unravel seemingly trivial mysteries, often leading to unexpected yet amusing conclusions. The playful tone combined with engaging storylines offers an enjoyable read for those who appreciate light-hearted detective fiction.
John Kendrick Bangs
R. Holmes & Co. Being the Remarkable Adventures of Raffles Holmes, Esq., Detective and Amateur Cracksman by Birth
"R. Holmes & Co." by John Kendrick Bangs is a collection of humorous detective stories likely written in the late 19th century. The book introduces Raffles Holmes, the son of the famous detective Sherlock Holmes, and follows his adventures as he employs a mix of intellect and dubious tactics to solve crimes, often in partnership with a narrator who seems both bemused and fascinated by Holmes's unorthodox methods. The opening of the narrative establishes a uniquely comedic tone as the narrator experiences an unbearable heatwave in New York, only to find himself drawn into the escapades of Raffles Holmes, who unexpectedly breaks into his apartment. The encounter quickly escalates as Holmes nonchalantly reveals his intentions while revealing his identity and family lineage. This initial interaction sets the stage for a series of clever plots intermingled with lighthearted banter, ultimately showcasing Raffles’s knack for turning criminal situations to his advantage while still evoking the legacy of his illustrious father. The groundwork is laid for further capers, highlighting Raffles Holmes's dual heritage of crime and detection amid witty commentary on the nature of both.
James Francis Thierry
The Adventures of the Eleven Cuff-Buttons Being one of the exciting episodes in the career of the famous detective Hemlock Holmes, as recorded by his friend Dr. Watson
"The Adventures of the Eleven Cuff-Buttons" by James Francis Thierry is a humorous detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the eccentric detective Hemlock Holmes and his faithful companion Dr. Watson as they tackle the curious case of a missing pair of diamond-studded cuff-buttons belonging to the Earl of Puddingham. Set against a backdrop of aristocratic mystery and folly, the narrative promises to blend detective work with amusing anecdotes and character interactions. At the start of the tale, we learn that Holmes has returned to London after a stint in the United States, accompanied by Watson. The plot quickly thickens when Eustace Thorneycroft, the Earl's secretary, bursts into their abode, distraught over the disappearance of the Earl’s precious cuff-buttons. As Holmes and Watson prepare to investigate, they are introduced to a host of quirky characters connected to the Earl, setting the stage for a series of misunderstandings, humorous exchanges, and the unfolding of the main mystery. The opening sets a light-hearted tone while hinting at the convoluted twists yet to come in this whimsical detective escapade.
John Kendrick Bangs
The Pursuit of the House-Boat Being Some Further Account of the Divers Doings of the Associated Shades, under the Leadership of Sherlock Holmes, Esq.
"The Pursuit of the House-Boat" by John Kendrick Bangs is a humorous fictional narrative written in the late 19th century. This lighthearted tale continues the escapades of notable literary characters, particularly focusing on the famous detective Sherlock Holmes and other illustrious figures from history and literature. The plot revolves around a caper that involves the abduction of the House-boat belonging to a group of "Associated Shades" - a gathering of famous spirits - and their ensuing efforts to retrieve it from the clutches of the notorious pirate Captain Kidd. At the start of the novel, the characters are immediately thrust into a dilemma when Captain Kidd steals the House-boat, taking with him various prominent female figures from history, such as Queen Elizabeth and Ophelia. The club members, led by Sir Walter Raleigh and Socrates, convene to address the crisis. They experience a blend of surreal interactions, witty banter, and absurd reasoning as they embark on a plan to recover their missing friends and beloved House-boat, eventually seeking the help of Holmes, who deduces that Kidd has sailed to London. The opening sets the stage for a comedic adventure filled with clever dialogue and whimsical situations, enticing readers into a world where literary and historical figures comically converge.
Maurice Leblanc
Arsène Lupin taistelussa Sherlock Holmesta vastaan
"Arsène Lupin taistelussa Sherlock Holmesta vastaan" by Maurice Leblanc is a novel written in the early 20th century. This engaging tale pits the cunning gentleman thief Arsène Lupin against the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes, exploring themes of cleverness and rivalry through a series of thrilling escapades. Expect a blend of intrigue, wit, and adventure as both characters attempt to outsmart each other in a tense game of cat and mouse. The opening of the novel introduces us to Professor Gerbois, who unknowingly becomes involved in a criminal plot after purchasing a charming writing desk as a birthday gift for his daughter, Suzanne. Following the purchase, the desk mysteriously disappears from their home, leading the professor to suspect a vengeful young man who had previously expressed interest in buying it. As the narrative unfolds, a lottery ticket associated with the desk emerges as a focal point, indicating that Lupin is intricately linked to the unfolding drama. The tension escalates when Suzanne is kidnapped, setting the stage for the ensuing conflict between Arsène Lupin and Sherlock Holmes, showcasing the classic confrontation between intellects and the unfolding consequences of greed and ambition.
Emil Hasselblatt
Herr Corpwieth, gentleman-detektiv
"Herr Corpwieth, gentleman-detektiv" by Emil Hasselblatt, Olaf Homén, and Henning Söderhjelm is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story features the main character, Corpwieth, an observant and analytical librarian who becomes entangled in a series of peculiar and perplexing events that unfold within the library's walls. The narrative is a blend of mystery and intrigue, revolving around a theft that triggers Corpwieth's detective instincts and sets the stage for a deeper investigation into motives and secrets. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Corpwieth and other amanuenses working in a library where a mysterious disarray of books raises suspicion among the staff. Corpwieth, initially detached from the chaos, begins to speculate on the peculiar circumstances and motivations behind the bizarre occurrences. As he quietly observes the events unfold, he becomes determined to unravel the mystery, which deepens further as a series of strange incidents occur around the library, ultimately leading to the discovery of a more significant plot involving espionage tied to a long-hidden letter with potential political ramifications. The opening sets a tone of intellectual curiosity and suspense, inviting readers to delve into the unfolding mysteries alongside Corpwieth.
Holger Nohrström
Den gåtfulle dubbelgångaren
"Den gåtfulle dubbelgångaren" by Holger Nohrström is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book presents a mysterious narrative revolving around the themes of identity and deception as characters grapple with the enigmatic disappearance of a fellow academic, Thomas Melón, who finds himself entangled in a bizarre series of events. The story unfolds in a setting that is likely within an academic and somewhat literate milieu, imbuing it with an air of intellectual intrigue. In the narrative, the protagonist, Thomas Melón, meets with his colleagues to share a surreal experience that he cannot grasp. After receiving a peculiar letter from Eva Limburg, the daughter of a well-known director, he is drawn back into a tangled web of personal history and the supernatural when he unexpectedly encounters the supposed ghost of Director Limburg. As the story progresses, Melón's friends, representing various academic disciplines, become involved in attempting to unravel the mystery of his encounter. Their discussions and analyses echo classic detective stories, blending humor and tension, as they reveal surprising truths about identity and the nature of reality itself. Through witty dialogues and intricate plotting, the novel engages readers in a mystery that is as much about relationships and societal expectations as it is about the ghostly doppelgänger.
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