The Case of the Missing Marquess, the Case of the Left-Handed Lady, and the Case of the Bizarre Bouquets (Enola Holmes: The Graphic Novels #1)

Gr 5-7--This collected edition features three previously published "Enola Holmes" graphic novel volumes by Serena Blasco. Volume 1, The Case of the Missing Marquess, sets up the disappearance of Enola's mother on Enola's 14th birthday and introduces older brothers Mycroft and Sherlock. While running away from a planned enrollment at boarding school, Enola decides to tackle the recent disappearance of Lord Tewksbury which is not as straight-forward as it initially appears. Volume 2, The Case of the Left-Handed Lady, occurs a few months later. Enola's search for the missing Lady Cecily Alistair plunges her into a complex web of deception involving on worker's rights and mind control. The third and final volume, The Case of the Bizarre Bouquets, focuses on the concerning disappearance of Dr. John Watson. Enola's only initial clue? A series of out-of-season bouquets delivered by a street youth on behalf of an oddly disguised man. Resplendent in lush watercolor illustrations, these stories (based on the popular book series by Nancy Springer) are perfect for readers who enjoy fast-paced plots and strong, ingenious female protagonists. Enola is saved from tricky situations by her own quick wits and persistent desire to piece together her mother's whereabouts. Pages from Enola's secret notebook offer case notes and intriguing ciphers at the end of each volume. Though fans of the book series or recent Netflix film may enjoy this work, readers do not need to be overly familiar with those properties or the Sherlock Holmes universe as sufficient context is provided. VERDICT Hand to tween and teen historical mystery lovers who enjoy a healthy dose of action in their detective stories.--Pearl Derlaga