1. The author uses the literary technique of the "unreliable narrator" where the narrator gives a limited or possibly false version of the story, and the reader must work out the real story. What do you think is the overall purpose of using such a narrator in this novel?

2. Has the author created a credible picture of someone with Aspergers or Autism? What would it be like if you had to think and react like Christopher?

3. Despite Christopher's many behavioral problems, do you feel sympathy or empathy for him? What makes him a likeable character?

4. The following statement appears in the book: "This is a murder mystery novel." Do you agree? Is the book really a murder mystery?

5. What is the significance of the title of the book? How do the Sherlock Holmes novels influence Christopher and how he goes about being a detective?

6. Christopher's father lied about his mother. Why did he find it necessary to lie? Do you think he behaved badly by lying?

7. The following statement appears in the book: "Intuition can sometimes get things wrong. But logic can help you work out the right answer." Does logic lead Christopher to the right answers? How important is intuition in reading this novel?

8. Is Christopher capable of change? Do his experiences help him grow by the end of the novel? Has he overcome any of his behavioral problems?

9. What is your opinion of the ending of the novel. Is it a satisfactory and tidy resolution as Christopher would wish for his novel? What do you imagine will be their lives in the future?

Created August 2004