I knew when I picked up this book that it was a Sherlock Holmes tribute, but somehow I’d managed to forget that fact by the time I started reading it. I’m kind of glad I had… I came to the story without expectations, and very much enjoyed it. It might disappoint some readers who expect a more traditional mystery, but I found this tale of an orphaned Jewish refugee in England to be both clever and moving. When the boy’s pet parrot goes missing, an elderly, retired detective is motivated to take up the case. Suspicions reach up to the highest levels and may involve government secrets.
Finishing up the book – I missed my subway stop, AND I cried at the end. That’s a recommendation.