Sir Arthur Conan Doyle: proof that, the more you write–the more you write.
Well, we’re all snowed in here, and there’s nothing better on a blizzard-y day than a good book! That’s why today’s prize is a very nice book indeed: Arthur Conan Doyle: A Life in Letters, by Jon Lellenberg, Daniel Stashower, and Charles Foley. First published in 2007 (this is the 2008 paperback), it won the Edgar Award for “Best Critical/Biographical Work” in 2008. Time calls it “A candid, personal portrait” and “The most comprehensive single volume out there.” I have not read it, but I’ll let you wrest it away from me if you can answer the following question (and win the drawing):
In 2012, The Guinness Book of World Records declared that Sherlock Holmes is the “literary human being” most portrayed on the large and small screens, with 254 versions to date. However, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle has had two other main characters (from non-Holmes books) made into film stars as well. Who are they?
John gives it 5 stars
Before I send you off to the internet, a brief word about this and other book prizes. These are brand-new, unread books. However, I could only afford to offer them because they’re either remaindered, or “factory seconds.” Bindings are tight, contents are intact, but there may be some cover blips akin to shelf wear, and I noticed that one book had some pages which were printed or cut very slightly off-center. I got them from Paperback Swap’s “Market,” where you can find new books at very nice discounts.
Once again, please send your answers via blog comment, FaceBook PM, or Twitter DM. I look forward to hearing from you!
Day Three Winner
The Giveaway #3 winner is Jaime Mahoney, who knew that Basil Rathbone was exceptionally good at disguises. And not just because he was an actor. An intelligence officer during World War I (eventually becoming a Captain in the Liverpool Scottish, 2nd Battalion), he used this ability to spy on the enemy during the daytime. He was awarded the Military Cross in 1918.
However, another answer would have done just as well–Dan Andriacco was quick enough to point out that both Holmes andRathbone were fencers, too!
The Well-Read Sherlockian 
Professor Challenger and Brigadier Gerard
Prof. Challenger and brigadier Gerrard.
Brigadier Gerard and Professor Challenger.
Off the top of my head, I know that Professor Challenger, of “The Lost World” fame and Brigadier Gerard both made it to the screen and, if memory serves, both each in the silent and sound eras. I own two copies of “A Life in Letters”, hardcover and trade, and I have read it twice. I don’t need three copies, so once again leave my name out of the grab-hat for 12thNG.04 While I feel bad for the authors, I too have a lot of remaindered books.
I’m LOVING your giveaway contest, though I know absolutely nothing. 🙂