HARDWICK, Michael and Mollie. The man who was Sherlock Holmes.

(London): John Murray, 1964.  First edition.  Softcover.  19.6cm by 13cm.  92 pages.  A fascinating exploration of the life and legacy of the legendary detective, Sherlock Holmes. The volume delves into the idea of Holmes as a figure who not only solves mysteries but also embodies certain aspects of detective work that shaped the genre as a whole. With a combination of fact and fiction, the Hardwick’s presents a thought-provoking narrative that takes readers into the world of Holmes—both as a fictional character and as an archetype that has influenced generations of detectives in literature. The authors also explore the intriguing theory that there may have been a “real” person behind the creation of the iconic detective.  Illustrated.  A very good copy in photo-illustrated wrappers.  Previous owner’s name to half-title.