The Great Shelby Holmes Meets Her Match

Gr 3–6—Shelby Holmes and John Watson are back in school and back to sleuthing. When Shelby meets her new science teacher, Mr. Crosby, she immediately senses something suspicious about him. When his watch is stolen, Holmes takes the case and is faced with her greatest adversary yet. Has Holmes met her match? Holmes's know-it-all personality and Watson's more laid-back persona continue to complement each other as they did in the previous book. Watson faces the challenges of beginning a new school, making new friends, coping with his parents' divorce, and navigating health issues related to his diabetes. Holmes continues to be the boisterous character who doesn't care what others think and will do anything to solve a case. Watson sets a great example for middle grade readers as he doesn't sacrifice his relationship with outsider Holmes as he makes new friends in school. Readers are treated to the softer side of Holmes as she learns that sometimes her ego gets in the way of the things that matter most. Eulberg does an excellent job of character development and presenting realistic family and friend relationships. The satisfying conclusion leaves open the possibility of additional sequels.