The Hound of the Baskervilles: Accessible Easier Edition
#4 in The Baker Street Children Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This book is a simplified and accessible adaptation of the classic novel 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, part of the 'Easier Classics Reading Library: The Starter Collection 3'. It aims to introduce younger readers to the famous mystery involving detective Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they investigate the legend of a supernatural hound on the English moors, said to curse the Baskerville family.
Character compass
Sherlock Holmes
Sir Henry Baskerville
Mrs. Barrymore
Miss Beryl Stapleton
John Barrymore
Dr. John Watson
Dr. James Mortimer
Mr. Jack Stapleton
Discussion points
How do you think Sherlock Holmes solves mysteries so effectively? What qualities does he possess that help him?
What feelings did you experience when you read about the mysterious hound? How did the author build suspense around it?
What role do you think friendship plays in this story, especially between Dr. Watson and Sherlock Holmes?
How do the settings in the story contribute to the mood? Can you describe how you imagined the moor?
If you were to give advice to Sir Henry about the hound, what would you tell him?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think like a detective, paying attention to the details in the story that could be clues.
Discuss the historical and geographical setting of the story, helping to paint a vivid picture of the era and location.
Compare and contrast the characters’ reactions to fear and uncover themes of bravery and friendship.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at several points in the book to engage their analytical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem solving
Explanation: As Sherlock Holmes uses deductive reasoning to solve the mystery of the Baskerville curse, children are introduced to the process of gathering information, analyzing it, and deducing conclusions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these skills in academic settings or in everyday situations where they need to make informed decisions or solve problems effectively.
Example Lesson: Courage in face of fear
Explanation: The characters in the story often face fearful situations, yet they continue to confront these challenges bravely. This helps depict the value of courage.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to face their own fears, whether it's trying something new or standing up for what's right, encouraging personal growth and bravery.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship and trust
Explanation: Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson rely on each other and work together to solve the case, illustrating the strength found in trusted companionships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of building and maintaining trustful relationships, teaching them how to be supportive friends and cooperative team members.
Example Lesson: Justice and fairness
Explanation: The pursuit of solving the mystery to bring justice for the victims portrayed in the story highlights the concepts of right and wrong.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of fairness and justice in their interactions with others and encourage them to always seek what is right.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and resilience
Explanation: Despite the challenges and setbacks faced by the protagonists, their determination never wavers, which underscores the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence in overcoming obstacles, whether they’re related to school projects, sports, or personal goals.