Episode Details

From time to time, we see analysis and debate about whether Sherlock Holmes was autistic, had Asperger Syndrome, or is in some other way on the spectrum.

As neurodiversity becomes more understood and accepted in the 21st century, it seems natural to explore this not only with Holmes, but with other characters in the genre as well.

In The Autistic Sleuth, Christopher Chan and Patricia Meyer Chan, Ph.D., test the question: Is the entertainment industry celebrating neurodiversity or is it reinforcing stereotypes? They analyze how two dozen characters appearing in filmed productions from around the globe who are presented as atypical minds.

We have Sherlockian news, as well as another round of the Canonical Couplet quiz. It's a super-easy one this time. The winner, chosen at random from all correct answers, will receive a copy of The Autistic Sleuth. Send your answer to comment @ ihearofsherlock .com by May 14, 2024 at 11:59 a.m. EDT. All listeners are eligible to play.

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• The Autistic Sleuth: Screen Portrayals of Detectives on the Spectrum in Sherlock Holmes Adaptations (Kickstarter | Amazon | Bookshop.org)
• Chris Chan's author page on Amazon
• Chris Chan books on MX Publishing
• Crime and Criticism (Chris Chan's Blog)
• News stories:
  • Sherlock Holmes Magazine #2 - The Jeremy Brett edition (Kickstarter)
  • Uniquely New York: A Good Mystery - Otto Penzler celebrates 45 years of the Mysterious Bo