"One Large Pad" [GREE]

Sherlock Holmes on the iPad
Originally uploaded by Scott Monty

Unless you've been living under a rock - or perhaps in a home with absolutely no connection to the outside world - you've probably heard that Apple Computers plans to release the iPad next week.

While some herald the iPad as nothing more than a supersized iPhone, there are elements of the larger version that lend themselves to a different array of applications. Certainly, one is akin to an e-reader, so Sherlockians will undoubtedly be able to get their fair share of Holmes stories on this very portable device.

In addition, there will be distribution deals for digital outlets. Think the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times. And lots ot games to keep the readers occupied otherwise. As part of this, we understand (via TouchGen) that Warner Bros. Digital Distribution will introduce their first iPad game - Sherlock Holmes Mysteries: The Case of the Innocent Man. The game is built exclusively for the iPad. While there aren't yet any details on the game itself, we're expecting to learn more as this burgeoning new media type expands.

For those of you inclined to try these devices - not to replace the good old fashioned paper, but rather to complement it - say, when traveling or when laying in bed and not wanting your New Annotated Sherlock Holmes to crush you to death - one of these devices below might be worth a try.

"Have You Seen the Dummy?" [MAZA]

One of the most rewarding elements of a resurgence in interest in Sherlock Holmes - particularly driven by Guy Ritchie's movie this time around -  is the inevitable complementary products that round out the field. For better or worse, everyone sees an opportunity to merchandise the subject.

In this case, though, there's definitely something from the "better" column: a new book afoot that will be essential as new Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts find their way to the great detective: Sherlock Holmes For Dummies by Steven Doyle, BSI ("The Western Morning News"), co-founder of the Wessex Press, and David A. Crowder. In what will surely become a cornerstone book for anyone who's interested in learning about world of Sherlock Holmes and his enthusiasts around the world, you'll find a treasure trove of material, including:

• A list of all Sherlock Holmes short stories and novels
• A detailed picture of Britain during Holmes's time
• In-depth analysis of Holmes and Watson as characters
• Detailed coverage of the four novels in the Sherlockian canon
• Holmes portrayals in television, movies, onstage, and in fan fiction
• The most memorable quotes of Holmes
• Active Sherlockian societies in the United States

In addition, readers will be able to: identify key themes, settings, and characters; see the influence of Holmes stories and their impact on literature, mystery writing, and detective work; discover Holmes through his contemporary fan following, and stage and screen adaptations; and appreciate the literary genius of the Sherlock Holmes canon.

In short, if you're looking to get started with Sherlock Holmes, his world, the stories and fans, Sherlock Holmes For Dummies should be your first stop. You can purchase it here. And perhaps think about buying a few copies, to gift to the young or new Sherlockians you may know.

UPDATE: Here's a handy rebate form if you purchase the book.

Dummies Rebate

"A Fitting Recognition" [STUD]

If you've been following the Academy Award Oscar nominations and you're a fan of Robert Downey Jr.'s Sherlock Holmes, you'll no doubt be aware that Hans Zimmer's music was nominated as for Best Original Score.

While the score for Sherlock Holmes didn't win this evening ("Up" won instead), you can still purchase it from Amazon as a CD or as a downloadable digital file right here.

And for those who are interested, the other nominees for Best Original Score were: Avatar (James Horner), Up (Michael Giacchino), Fantastic Mr. Fox (Alexandre Desplat), and The Hurt Locker (Marco Beltrami & Buck Sanders).