Sherlock Hong: The Immortal Nightingale (Sherlock Hong Adventures Book 1)
#1 in Sherlock Hong Adventures Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Sherlock Hong, a fifteen-year-old dismissed from a boarding school in England for dabbling in alchemy, returns to Singapore to join the secret organization the International Order of Young Seekers. Eager to prove himself, Sherlock investigates a local magician, William Fong, who intends to resurrect a dead nightingale, leading Sherlock into a sinister situation filled with mystery, mischief, and magic. Meanwhile, David Hamilton, exploring a sewer near his home, encounters Alphonsus Tooms, who warns him of the Forces of Chaos targeting his neighborhood, Trentham. A supernatural steam engine brings David to a hidden library where he finds a book with a mirror, initiating a series of fantastical adventures with his friend Helen. They confront a witch at their school, encounter bats, dragons, spectral warriors, and more as they strive to restore sanity to Trentham.
Character compass
Sherlock Hong
Discussion points
What qualities make Sherlock Hong a good detective? How do these qualities help him solve mysteries?
How does the setting in Singapore during the 19th century influence the story? Can you imagine how the characters feel living in that era?
What lessons did you learn from Sherlock's approach to challenges and obstacles?
If you were to join Sherlock on an adventure, what skills would you bring to help solve the mystery?
How do the other characters in the book help Sherlock, and what does this teach us about teamwork and friendship?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them what they would have done differently if they were in Sherlock’s shoes.
Discuss the historical and cultural context of 19th century Singapore to help deepen your child's understanding and appreciation of the setting.
Highlight the importance of perseverance and clever thinking depicted through Sherlock's character and link them to real-life scenarios.
Use examples from the book to discuss the value of friendship and cooperation, asking your child about their own experiences with friends.
Praise your child’s responses to encourage more in-depth thinking and engagement with the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and the importance of asking questions
Explanation: Sherlock Hong's constant quest for knowledge and his relentless questioning help him solve mysteries.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive about the world around them and not hesitate to ask questions to deepen their understanding.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving through logic and deduction
Explanation: Sherlock uses his keen observation skills and logical reasoning to piece together clues.
Real-World Application: Teaches children how to approach problems methodically and make decisions based on evidence and logical reasoning.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Despite challenges, Sherlock remains committed to solving the mystery, demonstrating determination.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to stay determined and persistent in achieving their goals, regardless of the obstacles they face.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision-making
Explanation: Sherlock faces moral dilemmas and chooses to do what is right, even when it's difficult.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the importance of making ethical decisions and considering the consequences of their actions.