Book review of The Captain of the Polestar, and Other Tales

by Arthur Conan Doyle (Author)

Updated at: 19/01/2025

Before Sherlock Holmes captivated the world, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle already showcased his exceptional storytelling abilities in diverse genres. "The Captain of the Polestar, and Other Tales," a captivating collection of short stories originally published in 1890, reveals this lesser-known facet of his talent. This anthology transports readers to atmospheric settings, blending mystery, adventure, and the supernatural. From chilling tales of the uncanny to gripping narratives exploring the depths of human nature, each story features Doyle's signature suspense and vivid descriptions. Experience the author's remarkable range and compelling characters in this enthralling collection, proving that Doyle's mastery extended far beyond the realm of his famous detective.

4.3 / 37 ratings

Review The Captain of the Polestar, and Other Tales

I absolutely adored "The Captain of the Polestar, and Other Tales"! As a huge Conan Doyle fan, I thought I’d devoured everything he’d written, but this collection was a delightful surprise. It's a real testament to his versatility as a writer, showcasing a breadth of talent that extends far beyond the brilliant, but ultimately singular, world of Sherlock Holmes. I was completely captivated by the sheer diversity of stories; one moment I was immersed in a chilling supernatural tale, the next I was swept away by a thrilling adventure on the high seas.

The variety was truly remarkable. "The Great Keinplatz Experiment," for instance, is a fascinating bit of early science fiction that really sparked my imagination. Then, there's "The Ring of Thoth," which takes a surprisingly engaging detour into ancient Egyptian mythology and mystery. The range is simply astounding, moving effortlessly between seafaring adventures, uncanny encounters, and even hints of horror. It's a thrilling rollercoaster ride of genres, and I found myself eagerly anticipating each new story, never quite knowing what to expect.

While some stories certainly stand out more than others, the overall quality is consistently high. Conan Doyle’s masterful storytelling is evident throughout; his knack for creating suspense is as potent here as it is in his Sherlock Holmes novels. Even when the characters are somewhat simplistic – and yes, some are undeniably one-dimensional – Doyle’s descriptive powers and his ability to build atmosphere more than compensate. He paints vivid pictures with his words, transporting you to the locations of each story, from the swirling mists of the sea to the dusty landscapes of the American West.

I particularly enjoyed the sheer audacity of some of the plots. The supernatural elements woven into several of the narratives felt genuinely eerie, unsettling in a way that perfectly captures the anxieties and curiosities of the era in which they were written. While I appreciate a well-crafted mystery, it was the unexpected turns, the glimpses into the darker corners of human nature and the unexplained, that kept me utterly hooked.

Some readers might find the collection uneven in tone, shifting from adventure to the gothic with little warning, and that's true. However, I found this delightful unpredictability part of the charm. It's a reflection of Doyle's experimental spirit, his willingness to explore different styles and themes. It's a book that surprised me repeatedly, kept me guessing, and left me feeling both satisfied and wanting more. If you're a Conan Doyle fan, or even just a lover of well-crafted short stories that span multiple genres, then this is a must-read. It's a treasure trove of forgotten gems, a reminder of the vast talent of a truly remarkable author.