Today I have had the pleasure of having Ramya Abhinand the author and owner of www.meotherwise.com to tell us about a favorite classic of hers.  She is an avid reader, a coffee lover and a parent. She writes passionately about literary stuff. and also pens her thoughts on parenting, gender issues and the world at large. I have loved reading her book reviews and find her reading choices and sensibility to be very similar to mine. Over to her…..

The Hound of the Baskervilles

Most classics aren’t easy reads. With a mellow tone, characters from an era gone by and a plot that’s far-fetched in comparison to today’s contemporary fictions, classics seldom are a favourite amongst many readers.But this is what I have got to say about them. Classics require patience and time. Savour them slow and steady and behind its pages lie tales that would leave you charmed in every way. Here is one such classic that I loved reading and highly recommend it to one and all. In fact if you are just getting started on reading classics, this book would be a perfect start.

Welcome to the world of Holmes

There may hardly be a person who isn’t aware of the famous detective, Sherlock Holmes. Originally created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle over a hundred years ago, this fictional detective solves cases using his razor sharp reasoning ability and observation techniques. And ofcourse along with Dr Watson – Holmes’ friend and assistant, Doyle’s narration and dialogues make for an interesting read.

Arthur Conon Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles

The Hound of the Baskervillesis perhaps the best-loved case of the legendary sleuth Holmes along with his sidekick Dr Watson.When Sir Charles Baskerville is found dead in the grounds of his country house, it is noticeable that his face was contorted with fear at the time of death. There are footprints of a giant hound nearby at the scene of crime. Holmes is drawn into this crime almost immediately. It turns out to be a case that involves an ancient family curse, savage brutality and a hellish, spectral hound that roams the foggy moors. Amidst all the complexities of the case, Holmes is faced with one big question to answer- Is there really something unearthly that walks across the moor? Caught between rationality and supernatural occurrence, Holmes has a tough case to crack here.

“There is nothing more stimulating than a case where everything goes against you.”
― Arthur Conan Doyle, The Hound of the Baskervilles

The Hound of the Baskervilles was first introduced to me when I was in class seven. The abridged version of the book was part of my English curriculum. Despite the shortened version, the tale had me captivated and that brought me to reading the original version- though years later. In fact I am glad I was introduced to the abridged version first. For it indeed was the best way to not only get introduced to Conan Doyle but also to the world of classics. Reading an abridged version is always the best way to get familiar with classics. Getting to the original work at a later point becomes easier as you would have already become familiar with the plot and can focus your energy more on the writing and description.

What to expect

Holmes is a classic creation of Conon Doyle and this character would stay for long in the world of literature. I would surely consider Sir Arthur Conon Doyle as a gifted writer for his ability to efficiently convey emotions and moods are immense. Scenes are often set vividly and the prose never fails to portray the real picture. Description of Moorlands of Devon, the tall man from the craggy heights, the Baskerville Butler, the cold winds; the images created in themind are credit worthy.  You may almost feel them at most times.

Amidst the creepiness, thrown into the story is the light and subtle humour through the dialogues exchanged between Holmes and Dr Watson. What really clicked for me in the Hound of the Baskervilles is the combination ofa mystery, super sleuth Holmes, and the feel of a horror story- all set across an English Moor. I haven’t seen an English Moor (maybe someday I shall). Until then books like these bring that world to me.

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Much as the book may seem to be loaded with detailing, with a little of patience this book would surely turn out to be an enjoyable read. It is one of the best classics I have read with a perfect balance of thrill as well as great writing. It is entertaining and would serve as perfect fodder for all mystery lovers.

The Hound of the Baskervilles is a timeless classic. If you are looking for just one great classic to read, then let it be this.

You could check out my book review of my first read of 2020 – The PoetX by Elizabeth Acevedo

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