Interesting Interview: Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry is beloved around the world for roles in Jeeves and Wooster and the Hobbit films, narrating the Harry Potter series, and so much more.  But today, we are going to celebrate his connection to Sherlock Holmes.  Stephen has narrated Sherlock Holmes: The Definitive Collection for Audible, played Mycroft Holmes in the second Robert Downey Jr. film, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, been a member of The Sherlock Holmes Society of London for decades, narrated the documentary, The Man Who Loved Sherlock Holmes, and won Celebrity Mastermind on BBC by answering questions about Sherlock Holmes.

Many times, Stephen has expressed his admiration for Holmes.  He has spoken about how Holmes's analytical mind and moral stances make him an ever-important figure in British literature.  A celebrated author himself, Stephen appreciates Arthur Conan Doyle's storytelling abilities.  He's said that it was the Holmes stories that turned him on to the power of storytelling and writing.  Many times in interviews, his love of Holmes will come up in discussion, and Stephen's warmth for the stories are infectious.  So imagine that that warm baritone of his as you read this week's Interesting Interview with Stephen Fry!

How do you define the word “Sherlockian”? 

As a noun, one who follows with enthusiasm and dedication the personality and achievements of the great Baker Street detective 

How did you become a Sherlockian? 

By reading the stories from an early age and being entirely captivated by them, the writing and the characters who people them.

What is your profession and does that affect how you enjoy being a Sherlockian? 

I am an actor, writer, broadcaster - that sort of thing. Which in no way militates against a contented Sherlockian life.

What is your favorite canonical story? 

Hm. Some days it’s "The Speckled Band", on others it’s "The Blue Carbuncle". But how can I not find time for "The Red-Headed League" or "Silver Blaze"? 

Who is a specific Sherlockian that you think others would find interesting? 

Mark Gatiss, but you’ve probably thought of him. Gyles Brandreth. Ditto.

What subset of Sherlockiana really interests you? 

The cultures and subcultures that the canon revealed for the first time to a Victorian public. The mafia, the corrupt unions, the Pinkerton agency, the Mormons, the Ku Klux Klan. 

When you played Mycroft Holmes in A Game of Shadows, how did you prepare for the role and were you allowed to share any insight on your character that made it to the screen? 

Well, Sherlockians will accept that the Guy Richie Holmes films are far from canonical. Nonetheless I was happy to try to convey some of Mycroft’s calm indolence and faint annoyance at ever being stirred. Also, I hit on the idea that he might call his brother, in a languid way, “Shirley” (probably spelt in both their minds “Sherly”).

Sherlock Holmes: The Definitive Collection is very highly regarded among Sherlockians.  Do you have any behind the scenes stories that we would appreciate? 

Other than to confirm the depth of diligent, affectionate and scrupulous scholarship that went into these maervellous editions. Navigating a fine line between playing “The Game” and real literary care.

What book would you recommend to other Sherlockians? 

The Seven-Per-Cent Solution by Nicholas Meyer is a fine example of how the canon has been taken over the last hundred years. This is now quite the genre on its own. The Beekeeper’s Apprentice, Enola Holmes of course, and many other offshoots from the parent tree are worth attending to. Maybe write one yourself!? Also, I’d recommend the Adrian Conan Doyle and John Dickson Carr “Exploit” stories, the further adventures that pick up from the canonical hints (Cardinal Tosca, James Phillimore, Wilson the notorious canary trainer, the Camberwell poisoning case etc.)

Where do you see Sherlockiana in 5 or 10 years from now? 

Ever stronger. When the primary coloured synthetic fabric caped crusaders pale and turn lame, Holmes in his cape of high-class tweed only stands taller and greater. Because of what he represents. Not alien magical abilities, not impossible superpowers, but a clear incisive mind, focus and concentration, an ability to mix inductive and deductive reasoning, to blend rationality with empirical sense. A benign world view, but not one that is soppily or self-righteously pious. And how wondrously human he remains all the while. In our world of science denial and woowoo nonsense, oh how we need him.

221b Con Wrap Up

Another 221b Con is in the books. Although this year was only my second time attending the largest Sherlockian gathering in America, it’s impossible to not walk away from Con impressed with the whole thing. The intelligence, passion, and fun on display is like nothing I’ve ever seen at any other gathering. 

If you were on social media at any point over the weekend, I’m sure you’ve seen plenty of stuff so this post will just be a quick recap of my weekend in Atlanta.

As soon as you walk into the Marriott lobby, you are greeted by plenty of your fellow Sherlockians. My drive from southern Illinois to Atlanta took longer than planned, so I missed the first two panels of the weekend. 

The first panel of the weekend announced that 2025 would not be the final year of 221b Con as many had feared. Lots and lots of discussions and work have allowed con to continue under new management of Heather Hinson and Johanna Draper Carlson. 

Before I get into a detailed rundown, a quick mention about the dealer's room at 221b Con.  Wow!  So many unbelievably talented folks out there.  I bough books from Liese Sherwood Fabre and art from Kyndall Potts but could have easily blown more money there.  Belanger Books were selling for the first time this year and almost sold their entire stock.  There is quite a market for Sherlockian goods in Atlanta!

A panel on chronology of all things had a packed room and buzzing with all of the things that go with that topic.  Brad Keefauver and Chris Zordan had well over 50 younger Sherlockians debating questions that have been kicked around by many luminaries before them: Is Watson a reliable narrator?  How many times was he married?  How important is Moriarty?  For anyone who bemoans the future of Sherlockiana and younger people not coming to this hobby, I say pfui.  Go to Atlanta if you want to feel secure about the future of this hobby.

A break in the panels was made specifically for a swap out by the food truck.  Books, ribbons, books,  bracelets, books, and more were out for the masses and many people walked away with big smiles and full arms.

A big highlight of this con was a Q&A session with the creators of the Sherlock & Co. podcast, Joel Emery, and Adam Jarrell.  Moderator Jones did a great job of getting inside stories from the two guys from England while allowing for lots of fan interaction and questions.  Will Sherlock and John go to America soon?  Will A.J. Raffles show up?  You'll need to listen to future episodes to find out!

After all of that talk of new adaptations, it was time to delve back into the Canon.  A panel on Mycroft Holmes had a room that was so full that people were sitting on the floor!  Was Mycroft actually lazy?  Could he actually have been the younger of the Holmes brothers?  Why am I describing panels with so many questions?

Like so many Sherlockian events, though, 221b Con is all about the people.  The nights are great for  hanging out with people.  Whether its catching up with people for a few minutes or an extended group hang, the Atlanta Airport Marriott is made for socializing.

Saturday night is the dance at con.  Last year I was completely unprepared and ended up borrowing one of Max Magee's outfits. (I shared a room with him this year.  He has plenty of outrageous things to share.)  This year, I at least had a Christmas shirt to wear, which paled in comparison to some of the other getups on display.  But it didn't matter, everyone was having fun.  From watching Erica Fair live her best life on the dance floor to a late night cheese tasting with Beth Gallego and Madeline Quinones, the whole night was a blast!

And yes, I had a little too much fun Saturday night and woke up with a raging hangover on Sunday.  I made it to a panel on the importance of John Watson before attempting to eat lunch.  After lunch was Curtis Armstrong and Ashley Polasek taking a look at women in the Canon and how the stories would have been told from their points of view.  And how did that presentation end in a group dance?  All I can say is, that's how things go at 221b Con.

The final panel of the weekend was the traditional Last Bow where the organizers accepted feedback and looked for ways to improve.  As this was Crystal Noll and Heather Holloway's last year as con organizers, it had a bittersweet feel to it, but they along with their team has created a Sherlockian event that has to be experienced and is paving the way for Sherlockian conversations and scholarship in the years to come.

My family had arrived in Atlanta by this point for us to head to Florida for family vacation the following day, but I did have time for a free-wheeling Watsonian Weekly podcast recording (Madeline's look in this picture may give you a hint at how slaphappy some of us were at this point), and one more group hang before we all drifted back to our rooms before leaving.

I can not stress this enough: if you have never been to 221b Con, you are missing out.  The discourse I heard during panels is top notch.  The atmosphere is so laid back that you can pick and choose how and when you engage with other people.  And you won't find a larger group of Sherlockians together in one place.  There's no way to walk away from this event and not have a glow about the Sherlockian world.

Interesting Interview: Erica Fair

There's a good chance you've seen the name Erica Fair somewhere, and and even better chance that you'll see it plenty more in the future.  Erica is a Sherlockian who grabbed Sherlockiana by the horns in the past year and has taken every opportunity to explore, engage, and enjoy this hobby of ours.  (She even made a trip to Paul Thomas Miller's Sherloft!) 

Erica has written papers and given toasts.  She's helping with 221B Con.  She fenced with Ashley Polasek last month at Holmes, Doyle & Friends.  She's amassing more books than the foundation of her house can support.  And on top of all of that, you can feel the good vibes radiating off of her.  The smile you see in all of the pictures in this interview is how she looks at every Sherlockian event I've seen her at in the past year.  So, if you haven't had the pleasure of meeting Erica yet, get ready for someone who will make you feel good about the future of Sherlockiana!

How do you define the word “Sherlockian”?

Before 2024, I would have said, “A Sherlockian is an American academic who studies the Canon, as opposed to British scholars, who are Holmesians” (oh yes, I was a real joy at parties).  

Now that I’m active in the community though, I find that “Sherlockian” is a perfect term to describe the members of this playful, vibrant social group, no matter their individual origin or how they prefer to take their Holmes. To me, a Sherlockian is any Holmes enthusiast who doesn’t think it’s weird that I can recite “221B”, and in fact will probably join me.

How did you become a Sherlockian?

In seventh grade, I was assigned to read SPEC and SCAN, and I was immediately captivated by Holmes, buying my first copy of the Canon with my allowance at age 12.  I never lost my interest in the stories, but before I joined the Norwegian Explorers as an adult, I never really engaged much with others – put bluntly, I liked what I liked and didn’t especially care what anyone else thought. 

In early 2024 though, I was playing the Frogwares video games and it made me curious to watch some adaptations that I had previously ignored on principle.  Afterwards, I desperately wanted to talk to someone, so I reached out to some of the extroverted folks in my scion, and everything grew from there.  On their advice, I started joining Zoom meetings and writing for my scion’s publications, and fortuitously the Minnesota triennial conference was just a few months later, so I got to dive into the community head-first.  I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who encouraged me and gave me opportunities to get involved; in just over a year, my whole world has been completely transformed for the better.

What is your profession and does that affect how you enjoy being a Sherlockian?

I’m a state’s attorney, handling matters like criminal prosecution, civil commitments, and child protection. Although lots of trials means that my work schedule can get intense, I get to be in the courtroom almost every day, and I get to assist law enforcement behind the scenes with investigations, which is amazing. I actually see quite a lot of overlap between Holmes’ work and my own, especially when it comes to finding the facts on a case and determining what is justice, and I have several of his mottos posted throughout my office.

Despite working in law, my Sherlockian interests are primarily in science and medicine.  For a long time I had thought I was going to be a doctor, but high school chemistry broke me, and my fascination with Holmes led me to criminology and forensics instead. While I love my work and have never looked back, I still appreciate any opportunity to learn more about historical science.

What is your favorite canonical story? 

Every time I read the Canon, I find a new detail to appreciate! Traditionally DYIN has been my favorite due to the interplay of drama and medicine, but lately I’ve had a special fondness for REIG; I find there’s a lot of humor in this story if you can approach it as a comedy.  I also love any story that shows Holmes on the ropes, like WIST or NORW.  When the mask of unemotionality cracks, that glimpse of the desperate man underneath is captivating. And of course, since CREE was the focus of the first article and presentation I ever prepared, I’ll always have a special love for Presbury and Roy.

Who is a specific Sherlockian that you think others would find interesting?

This blog has already interviewed most of them, so great work! I would have to say Karen Ellery, my Sherlockian fairy godmother.  She’s a Norwegian Explorer of many years, an active founder of many specialty scions ranging from Legos to tea, and she’s the director of the Red-Throated League that recreates Edith Meiser’s radio productions.  She is also a spectacular friend, mentor, and connector who is one of the legitimately kindest people I’ve ever met.  She has singlehandedly done more to bring me into the Sherlockian world than any other person, and she deserves to be recognized.

I'd also make a pitch for Eric Deckers, who writes a great weekly humor blog called The Laughing Stalk.  By sheer coincidence, I was a subscriber to his blog for six months before I learned he was also a Sherlockian!  It's really incredible how giant and how tiny our community can be at the same time.

What subset of Sherlockiana really interests you?

With my special interest in medicine, Watson’s professional world fascinates me. Imagine being born into an age that doesn’t even have aspirin, yet by the time you retire, heart surgery is becoming normal. There was so much curiosity and so much rational optimism behind every new innovation, even in an age that had a number of serious problems.  I really admire the Victorian physicians, scientists, and patients who made it all possible, as well as the general history and culture of the Victorians and their world.

I also like exploring how Watson has been depicted over the decades. I enjoy seeing him grow stronger, smarter, and funnier over time, and I love that he’s finally getting his due as a nuanced, realistic character in his own right.

You seem to be in that exciting stage of Sherlockiana, where you want to get your hands on everything!  (I've seen your piles of swag and purchases...)  How is this ever-growing collection set up at your house?

I’ve always been a prolific reader, with about 400 books even before I dove into Sherlockiana, so shelf space is a lifelong battle!  I’m fortunate enough to have a very forgiving husband, plus a house with a large basement and a den with built-in shelves.  Presently my collection at home is in two parts: two large bookshelves if I think I’ll want access to an item within the next twelve months, and a massive sealed tote bin if I don’t. My work office is also full of Sherlockian books and décor, to the amusement of my colleagues.

Although I happily accept most items when I’m out and about, I’m actually somewhat picky about what I retain or for how long. I don’t want a book to fade away in my basement if realistically I’ll never read it again and it could be out bringing someone else happiness. Luckily I have plenty of hardcore collector friends who gratefully adopt anything I don’t need to keep forever.  When I do retain items, I prefer secondhand books and ex-library copies, since I know they’ve already had a good run and can now retire with me.

As someone who has jumped into Sherlockiana with a fervor, what advice do you have for fellow Sherlockians who may feel hesitant about engaging more with the hobby?

Ultimately, come in with enthusiasm and keep an open mind. There’s something to appreciate about even the cringiest story or adaptation (yes, even that one), and I guarantee that it brings happiness to someone you never expected.  Friendly discussions can lead to great ideas and to special connections that you could have never predicted.

Additionally, show gratitude and legitimate interest in others’ hard work, in whatever form it takes.  Praise someone for their presentation or ask them to sign a copy of their article.  Admire a collection or tell someone how much you enjoy their artwork.  Take a moment to thank those behind the scenes who produce podcasts, run scions, and organize conferences.  True appreciation goes a long way in starting conversations and creating new opportunities, and if you bring warmth and excitement into the community, you’ll receive it back tenfold.

Above all else, be kind, even when you’re passionate.  We play the game for the game’s own sake, and there’s no prize at the end for being right.  The ultimate test of inclusion isn’t whether you think Rathbone or Cumberbatch was the definitive Holmes*, but whether you enjoy the liveliness of good company and can share others’ wit, knowledge, and excitement for the characters and their adventures. 

What book would you recommend to other Sherlockians?

I have many!

·       For medical history, I recommend anything by Roy Porter or Lindsay Fitzharris, as well as Jennifer Wright’s Get Well Soon if you prefer a more lighthearted take.

·       For non-Holmes mystery fiction, I love Will Thomas’ Barker and Llewellyn series, starting with Some Danger Involved. I also enjoy Steve Hockensmith’s humorous Holmes on the Range series, about two cowboy brothers who read The Strand and attempt to solve their own local mysteries.

·       I don’t read many pastiches, but I grew up with The Resurrected Holmes, edited by Marvin Kaye, which is an anthology written in the styles of several famous 20th century authors. As a Minnesotan, I also love Larry Millett’s Sherlock Holmes and the Red Demon and its sequels.

·       And for general nonfiction, my favorite book of all time is probably A.J. Jacobs’ The Know It All.  It hilariously describes the author’s real-life attempt to read the Encyclopedia Britannica from cover to cover, with side effects like his wife charging him a dollar for each irrelevant fact he dropped into conversation.  I suspect that many of us (and our poor partners) can relate!

Where do you see Sherlockiana in 5 or 10 years from now?

Despite the floodgates of public domain, I don’t see the canonical character disappearing anytime soon.  For better or worse, there will always be people who are drawn to the story of a loner genius who finds pain relief in overwork and disconnection.  But I’ve often thought that the mark of maturity is when you stop admiring Holmes and start admiring Watson, and the community we have right now seems to be a near-perfect balance of those two forces.  As the century progresses, I’m sure there will be more waves of popular adaptations and strong opinions that accompany them, but as long as the human element shines through, Sherlockiana will continue to be a net positive to the community. The Victorians were rational optimists, and I am too.  

*Sorry for the trick question; the best Holmes is obviously Clive Merrison.

It Is For Us to Find the Connection [SECO]

To me, "The Solitary Cyclist" will always be the story that has an illustration of Holmes punching Teddy Roosevelt in the face.

Theodore Roosevelt’s distant cousin and fellow president, Franklin D. Roosevelt was a noted Sherlock Holmes fan and honorary member of the Baker Street Irregulars.  But are there any other connections between Holmes and the 26th president?

The definitive answer is… sort of?

The one that jumps to my mind (and most Google results) is the pastiche The Stalwart Companions.  

This was part of The Further Adventures of Sherlock Holmes pastiche series that saw Holmes meeting everyone from Harry Houdini to Professor Challenger to the aliens from The War of the Worlds, Dracula, the Phantom of the Opera, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Martians, passengers of the Titanic, and Jack the Ripper at least three times.

This one looks to be a little more believable than some of the other titles in the series though, where a young Holmes visits New York and teams up with the New York Police Commissioner, a pre-presidential Theodore Roosevelt.  Oh, and Roosevelt is the author of this tale, the manuscript only just discovered in the basement of the New York Police Department.

Another book that comes up often is Sherlock Holmes in America, a short story anthology collected by Martin H. Greenberg, Jon L. Lellenberg, and Daniel Stashower.  Unlike my previous example I’ve actually read this one, but it was over a decade ago.  Roosevelt shows up in one story here.  This collection also includes pieces by well-known names such as Loren Estleman and Lyndsay Faye.  If you enjoy pastiches, this one is a nice way to pass some time.

A little further down in the Google results, you’ll find the 1992 film, Incident at Victoria Falls, the second Sherlock Holmes film with Christopher Lee as Holmes and Patrick Macnee as Watson in old age.  In this made for TV movie, Holmes is sent to South Africa by King Edward to get the Star of Africa diamond.  Along the way, he crosses paths with AJ Raffles, Lillie Langtry, and former president Theodore Roosevelt played by Claude Atkins.

The overall reviews of this film were mid-range, calling it “plodding,” “too long,” and “almost worth it for a completist.”

The only real life connection I could find was this cover of Puck Magazine from 1909 by Louis Glackens, titled “The Adventure of the Crooked House.”  The Theodore Roosevelt Center describes this as 

“Theodore Roosevelt as Sherlock Holmes peaks through a keyhole in a door labeled "Congress." Uncle Sam, as Watson, stands behind him, and a man labeled "Special Privilege" is looking through a window at the top of the door. Caption: Sherlock Holmes--Something devilish has been going on here, Watson!”

So, are there any connections between Sherlock Holmes and Theodore Roosevelt? 

Not really.

Holmes punches him out in the Paget illustration, but it seems like people have had to invent their own connections throughout the years.

Maybe that’s why there are so many Sherlock Holmes teddy bears.

Interesting Interview: Anna Behrens

This week's Interesting Interview is with Anna Behrens, Sherlockian, Doylean, podcaster, author, editor, scion head, and all-around wearer of many hats!  I've been lucky enough to work with Anna as we are both officers of The Beacon Society, and she is one of those people who just immediately know you can rely on.  

As I learned more about her, it seems I'm not the only one out there who knows Anna is a stalwart in everything she does!  Anna is the head of the Monadnock Sherlockians and has shepherded their efforts into two anthologies (details below) as well as helped an entire town to celebrate Sherlock Holmes!  Her work has been in so many publications, that it would take another whole paragraph to include them all here.  So let's all get to know New Hampshire's hardest working Sherlockian, Anna Behrens!

How do you define the word “Sherlockian”? 

I refer to myself and to my scion members as Sherlockians, and I believe that term applies to anyone who has more than a passing interest in Sherlock Holmes, and spends time with the stories or adaptations on a regular basis. I also consider myself to be a Doylean, because on my journey into Sherlockiana, I developed a strong interest in Conan Doyle’s life and in his non-Sherlockian writings. I have written several articles including one on the relationship between Conan Doyle and Rudyard Kipling, as well as an article about Conan Doyle’s second wife Jean Leckie and her journey into becoming a Spiritualist Medium. 

How did you become a Sherlockian?

I came to be a Sherlockian rather late in life, in 2007 when I was in my 40s. This was when I met my late husband Richard, a would-be Sherlockian, who showed me the Granada Television adaptations with Jeremy Brett. I loved those from the first viewing, and then he suggested I read the canon. Richard and I took a lot of road trips visiting various historical and literary sites around New England so we listened to audio versions as well as radio plays of the stories during the long car rides. I had a lifelong interested in the Victorian era so I was hooked on Sherlock Holmes fairly quickly. 

Richard and I married in 2010, and a few years later we moved to Keene, NH from Doylestown, PA. We were interested in joining a Sherlockian group, but we did not find one close to Keene, so we started our own group, the Monadnock Sherlockians, named for our region of NH. We decided that the group would focus around reading the stories of the canon in order of publication. Sadly, Richard developed cancer and passed away in 2017. I was broken hearted, but the Monadnock Sherlockians were extremely helpful in giving me a focus in my time of grief. When COVID hit, I delved even deeper into the Sherlockian world by joining in so many zoom meetings of scions that I was eligible to become a member of the Legion of Zoom. I still miss Richard every day but I will be forever grateful to him for showing me the way into the Sherlockian world, and for so much else. 

What is your profession and does that affect how you enjoy being a Sherlockian?

I am a Speech-Language Pathologist, and work in a public school servicing children with special needs. At school, I started a Sherlock Holmes group for Middle and High School students. I also use leveled Sherlock Holmes stories to help build language skills in my students with special needs. I am pleased that my work allows me to bring a bit of Holmes into it, however my school schedule keeps me from going to some of the Sherlockian events I would otherwise love to attend. 

What is your favorite canonical story?

This is a tough question. I have favorites for various reasons. I like "The Six Napoleons" for its quite original mystery, and I like "The Red Headed League" for its humor. I like "The Blue Carbuncle" as my go-to feel good holiday story. But I also appreciate "A Scandal in Bohemia," where Holmes is bested by a woman. I think this made the stories more accessible to women, where they could see in Irene Adler an unconventional but intelligent woman who outsmarts Sherlock Holmes, while protecting herself and maintaining her reputation in the constraining times in which she lived. 

Who is a specific Sherlockian that you think others would find interesting?

There are so many truly interesting people, every Sherlockian has something unique to offer to the Sherlockian world. If I had to choose just one, I would choose one of my Sherlockian heroes, Rosemary Herbert, who I had the honor to meet in January. She is a gifted writer, poet, and editor who received her BSI investiture as "A Slim Youth in an Ulster." This name was likely chosen because, like Irene Adler who was that same slim youth, Rosemary donned male costume to attend the Speckled Band Dinner many years before they accepted women into their membership. She was later the first woman inducted into the Speckled Band of Boston. She is also a kind-hearted and interesting person who I have come to admire greatly in the short time I have known her.

What subset of Sherlockiana really interests you? 

I like the Arthur Conan Doyle Society where one can learn more about Conan Doyle’s life and non-Sherlockian works. Another area that I adore are the Sherlockian Podcasts. I listen to many of them faithfully, and support them on Patreon. I have learned so much from IHOSE, Trifles, and Doings of Doyle. I also enjoy the Jeremy Brett Sherlock Holmes Podcast and have fun with the modernized stories in Sherlock and Co. Perhaps I especially like podcasts because I also have a podcast that I inherited from my husband and continue to produce, The Lizzie Borden Podcast. It is not Sherlockian per se, but we do have some cross over into Victorian America such as our interview with Sherlockian George Schwartz on the rise of Spiritualism in Victorian America. 

Many scions have been around for decades at this point, but The Monadnock Sherlockians are just a few years old and have already published two anthologies!  Can you tell us about the group and what sparked the idea to publish? 

The Monadnock Sherlockians celebrated our 8th year last December so we are a somewhat newer scion. My group is a creative one, composed of writers, artists, actors and even costumers.  I started collecting the poems and toasts made to the various characters written by members of my group. I also write Sherlockian essays that have appeared in various Sherlockian journals and books. When I collected enough pieces for a book, I decided to publish an anthology of our group’s writings. I included a short story written by my late husband, Richard Behrens, who was a writer in both fiction and non-fiction. He wrote a series of stories called Lizzie Borden, Girl Detective Mysteries. He often played homage to elements of the Sherlockian canon in his stories, so it feels appropriate to include one story in each anthology I publish. Richard and I published one of his novels together, The Minuscule Monk, where I did the illustrations in the book. To my delight, I had enough Sherlockian material to publish a second anthology in 2024. I hope to be able to continue to publish more every few years. 

As a former winner of The Beacon Award and current Secretary of The Beacon Society, you know the society pretty well.  What would you like other Sherlockians to know about it?

I was honored to receive the Susan Z. Diamond Beacon Award for my Sherlockian work with students at my school, and for my creation of  Sherlock Week in Keene, NH where we had week long series of events such as lectures, interactive films, plays, puppet show and a kids’ forensic lab. Through my experience as Percy Phelps, the secretary for the Beacon Society, I have marveled at the dedication of members who work very hard to create ways to bring Sherlock Holmes to children. One way they do this is to offer grant money to schools and libraries who want to purchase Sherlockian books or materials or put on Sherlockian community events. I certainly benefited from receiving such a grant for my Sherlock Week events. This grant money comes in large part from donations given by Sherlockians, so I would ask Sherlockians to keep the Beacon Society in their minds when making charitable donations.  

What book would you recommend to other Sherlockians?

The book that I have recommended most to newer Sherlockians is Mattias Bostrom’s From Holmes to Sherlock. It is a book that really helped me understand the Sherlockian world, past and present.  I also recommend Daniel Stashower’s biography A Teller of Tales: The Life of Arthur Conan Doyle to those who are interested in learning more about Conan Doyle’s life. 

Where do you see Sherlockiana in 5 or 10 years from now? 

I think it will continue to evolve, sparking continued interest in both young and not-so-young so that it will be going strong 10 years from now and beyond.  There are so many aspects of Sherlockiana still to be discovered for most of us, including hidden gems of esoteric Sherlockian groups, and discovering them is certainly part of the fun.  

Interesting Interview: Ron Fish

You know how some people feel like a long-lost aunt or uncle and whenever you see them, your day is immediately better?  That's Ron Fish for me.  He and I have emailed plenty over the years, but I've only seen him in person a handful of times.  And his gregarious nature makes you feel like he's a guy you could just grab a slice with and talk about life.  All around great guy.

And as a Sherlockian?  This guy is doing a great service for all of us.  Ron is the man behind the Sherlockian Calendar.  If you've ever needed to look up a meeting date or see what Zooms were happening on a weekend, Ron has had your back.  He was active in the Sherlock Holmes Wireless Society, and he and his wife, Carol, have helped The Serpentine Muse memorialize members throughout the years.  Ron isn't someone who seeks the spotlight, so there's a good chance you're going to get to know a delightful Sherlockian right now!

How do you define the word “Sherlockian”?

Someone with a real interest in the Sherlock Holmes character.  I think today many are attracted to the various movies and popular culture versions, but I believe you have to start with the literary work (I'm a purist at heart).

How did you become a Sherlockian?

I was looking for something to read in high school at age 16.  My father had a very small collection of books, including a copy of the complete Doubleday version of the Canon.  Why, I don't know.  But I started reading it and couldn't put the book down.  I was totally enthralled by the Victorian gaslight era. 

What is your profession (or previous if you are retired) and does that affect how you enjoy being a Sherlockian?

I am a retired aerospace engineer.  I spent the last 25 years of my career in Business Development (i.e., sales and marketing), and I traveled extensively.  I would meet other Sherlockians when I could for drinks or dinner -- Tom and Ruth Stetak in Ohio,  Allan Devitt in Illinois, Bruce Southworth in Minnesota, Bob Bisio and Vinnie Brosnan in California, Peter Calamai in Canada.  I also visited Wiggins at his house in California when I attended a nearby conference.

What is your favorite canonical story?

I don't think I've ever had a favorite story.  I like some better than others.  Now, I guess it's "The Final Problem," since my investiture is from that story. 

Who is a specific Sherlockian that you think others would find interesting?

This is a difficult question.  I have met so many interesting people in this close-knit world.  I think Peter Blau, as the elder statesman of the BSI, would be an obvious choice.  His Sherlockian knowledge is nothing short of astonishing. 

What subset of Sherlockiana really interests you?

Collecting, if that qualifies. 

What was the impetus for the Sherlockian Calendar?

It was an idea put forth by Ben and Sue Vizoskie.  I was an active member of The Three Garridebs for many years, and they approached me about beginning a calendar.  I also created a website for the group at the same time, and a few other scions.

I am frankly amazed and gratified with the feedback I've received from managing the Sherlockian Calendar.  I just wish that all scions would contribute their meeting notices.  I have 62 scions now that I solicit dates from. 

As an active member of The Sherlock Holmes Wireless Society for such a long time, what are some fond memories you have from that area of Sherlockiana? 

The group has been inactive for some years.  Ken Johnson created the SHWS in the late 1970s.  At the time, there were 20-30 active members, and we would have weekly "nets" on ham radio.  I was the "Editor" of the newsletter for many years.  It was mailed to members and consisted of copied Sherlockian articles.   There are five Sherlockians today who are licensed but we don't have any plans to get back on the air.

What book would you recommend to other Sherlockians?

I have read many good Sherlockian books.  It's impossible to recommend any one volume. 

Where do you see Sherlockiana in 5 or 10 years from now?

I have been involved with scions since the 1970s and attended my first BSI dinner in 1988.  I'm happy to see a younger set of Sherlockians get involved, folks like Monica Schmidt, Shana Carter, and Nick Martorelli.  It will go wherever they choose to take it!

Interesting Interview: Naching Kassa

Zoom Sherlockian meetings have opened up the world to Sherlockians that many people wouldn't have otherwise met, including this week's Interesting Interview subject, Naching Kassa.  She is a familiar fact to many of us in the online realm and you know when she chimes in on a conversation or in the chat, there's always an insightful bit of wisdom coming your way.

Naching is a wife, mother, and writer from Eastern Washington State and is a member of the Horror Writers Association, Mystery Writers of America, The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association, The Sound of the Baskervilles, The ACD Society, The Crew of the Barque Lone Star, The Beacon Society, The Sherlock Holmes Society of London, The John H. Watson Society, The Hounds of the Internet and the Legion of Zoom.  Now, I dare you to try and read that whole list out loud with a single breath.  The woman is busy!  But she wasn't too busy to share her thoughts on Sherlockiana with us this week, so without further ado, here is this week's interview with Naching Kassa!

How do you define the word “Sherlockian”?

A Sherlockian is someone who admires and studies Sherlock Holmes. Who lives and breathes him. Whether they enjoy the original canonical Holmes, William Gillette, Basil Rathbone, Peter Cushing, Jeremy Brett, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jonny Lee Miller or even Henry Cavill, anyone who celebrates Sherlock Holmes is a Sherlockian to me.

How did you become a Sherlockian?

One late-summer evening, a few months before I turned ten, I walked into the living room and found a new British show on PBS. “What is this?” I asked my older sister, the only person in the room. “It’s a new mystery. Sherlock Holmes,” she answered. I sat down just as David Burke said, “To Sherlock Holmes, she is always the woman.”

And I was hooked.

I had to see every show after that and when my dad discovered this, he came up with a very clever plan. He’d been trying to interest me in the classics and this was his chance. He asked me to read the next story, “The Crooked Man,” before the episode aired so I could explain it to everyone. “The Crooked Man” was the first story I ever read. My dad told me I could write to Sherlock Holmes if I wanted, and so I addressed a letter to 221 B Baker Street and mailed it. The response came the next year, sent from the Abbey National Building Society. It was signed by the secretary to Sherlock Holmes, Sue Brown. That was the moment I became a Sherlockian. I studied everything—the Canon, books, movies, radio shows, magazines—after that.

What is your profession and does that affect how you enjoy being a Sherlockian?

Writing is my main profession. I write mystery and horror. I’m also the talent relations manager for Crystal Lake Publishing, an independent publisher, and I work as an independent contractor for the Horror Writers Association. Being a Sherlockian actually helps with my writing. I’ve written many pastiches for both Belanger Books and MX Books. Surprisingly, I’ve never grown sick of writing or reading Holmes. I think writing adds to the enjoyment.

What is your favorite canonical story?

My favorite canonical story is “The Abbey Grange.” I adore that story. (My canonical name in the Sound of the Baskervilles is Lady Mary Brackenstall.) There are so many facets to it. You have mystery, melodrama, romance, and a near failure on Holmes’ part. I have always loved the beeswing in the wine glasses. But what I love most is Holmes’ opinion on justice. I can think of no better judge—and no better jury in the form of Watson, for that matter. Who wouldn’t want Watson on their jury?

Who is a specific Sherlockian that you think others would find interesting?

My husband’s uncle, James Burke. He worked for U.S. Customs in Long Beach, CA, and belonged to the Trained Cormorants of Long Beach. I loved talking to Uncle Jim about all the actors he met while working in customs and, of course, about Sherlock Holmes. He had a great sense of humor and led an interesting life. He passed in 2017 and I miss him very much.

What subset of Sherlockiana really interests you?

Is there a subset for the darker side of Sherlockiana? For the more monstrous, Gothic side? If there is, that’s what really interests me.

As a pastiche writer, what sparks a good story idea for you?

I guess I find inspiration in everything. The first pastiche I ever wrote was inspired by Lucy Westenra from Dracula. At the time, I was watching Bram Stoker’s Dracula, wondering about the Bloofer Lady, and what happened to her victims. I imagined a boy who she’d bitten becoming an admirer of Sherlock Holmes. This boy, Jimmy Hampstead, would become an Irregular and emulate Holmes by solving mysteries. The story became “The Adventure of Marylebone Manor.” I’m a pantser—I don’t outline my stories—so most of them just come to me. 

You are very active in the horror community. What parallels do you see in that world and the world of Sherlockiana?

Horror writers are wonderful, kind people and so are Sherlockians. They’re both very welcoming and accepting. We don’t care what race you are, who you love, what gender you are, etc.—we want you to be a part of our group. And we will protect you. Both Horror and Sherlockiana owe a little something to Edgar Allen Poe as well. Neither would exist without him.

Finally, Sherlock Holmes fits well in both worlds. He is the constant, whether in a grounded world, where ghosts need not apply, or one populated by eldritch creatures and vampires. He is believable in either one.

What book would you recommend to other Sherlockians?

As a pastiche writer, I find the Encyclopedia Sherlockiana by Jack Tracy invaluable. And for pure, unadulterated fun, I recommend Sherlock Holmes and The Christmas Demon by James Lovegrove.

I’d like to recommend some Sherlockian games as well. Sherlock Holmes and the Devil’s Daughter is a great video game. Scotland Yard: Sherlock Holmes Edition, The Sherlock Files, Cobble & Fog, and 221B Baker Street are wonderful board games.

Where do you see Sherlockiana in 5 or 10 years from now?

I see Sherlockiana growing. I see my children’s children reading the books, watching the movies and listening to the podcasts. I’m sure there will be new Holmeses (and Watsons) to keep the memory green for many years to come.