Sherlock Holmes’ legendary powers of deduction have always seemed unnatural–almost super-human–akin to flying or x-ray vision. The genius that is Sherlock Holmes is universally known and admired.  Although a fictional character himself, Sherlock’s methods are quite real and can be learned or at least understood.  Much like Sherlock’s partner, we too can be taught in the art of deduction and logic.  A good place to start is Maria Konnikova’s book Mastermind: How to Think like Sherlock Holmes.   

Konnikova uses excerpts from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories about Sherlock to develop, understand, and educate the reader so they can try to undertake the process of developing deduction and logical reasoning on par with the great detective.  Combining the stories of Sherlock with psychological studies pertaining to memory, decision making, and the synthesis of knowledge, Konnikova has found an entertaining narrative to convey the latest findings about how the brain works.  The book does not give you a step by step regiment of exercises or a detailed plan that will directly lead the reader to become a deductive juggernaut.  The book does give excellent overall advice about how to keep your brain organized, why we think the way we do, what we can do to train, and develop our brains.

Entertaining and informative this book is definitely worth the read.  If you are a Sherlock fan it is a must read.

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language:  None

Violence/Gore:   In referencing some Sherlock Holmes cases there is mention on murder victims, non-detailed scenes of violent death.

Sex/Nudity:  None

Mature Subject Matter:

In referencing Sherlock Holmes cases there is mention of murder, theft, and illegitimate children.

Alcohol / Drug Use:

Sherlock smokes a pipe and sometimes partakes in alcoholic beverages.  Sherlock’s drug use is not mentioned although it is well known.