This book was the direct result of an event which took place at Hyde Park, New York at the C.I.A. (Culinary Institute of America) in the Great Hall on June 2, 1973; when more than a hundred Holmes enthusiasts enjoyed a grand Sherlickian repast. The menu on that occasion is even reproduced on page 237 as well as full menu notes.

But this is only the beginning.

On average Holmes and Watson enjoyed approximately three meals per story. Between the 56 short stories and 4 novels of the Holmes canon, there are no fewer than 198 references to meals and dishes.

Together with Frederic H. Sonnenschmidt who was an instructor at the C.I.A., Sherlock Holmes aficionado Julia Carlson has produced a fascinating and practical book that is of interest to Sherlock fans, be they gifted in the kitchen or not.

This is a fantastic reference book, and fully indexed at the back.
It is perhaps worth noting that it is text only. No illustrations (apart from the menu I mentioned already), and no photographs whatsoever. A few colour plates in the centre would have been a nice complement; but, this is not worth losing any stars over. ( )