The Missing Masterpiece

Baker Street Irregulars #1

by Terrance Dicks

When a valuable masterpiece is stolen, Dan Robinson and his friends, calling themselves the Baker Street Irregulars, investigate the scene of the crime, piece together random clues, and finally corner the two criminals

Genres: Mystery

128 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 1979

About the author

Terrance Dicks was an English author, screenwriter, script editor, and producer best known for his extensive contributions to Doctor Who. Serving as the show's script editor from 1968 to 1974, he helped shape many core elements of the series, including the concept of regeneration, the development of the Time Lords, and the naming of the Doctor’s home planet, Gallifrey. His tenure coincided with major thematic expansions, and he worked closely with producer Barry Letts to bring a socially aware tone to the show. Dicks later wrote several Doctor Who serials, including Robot, Horror of Fang Rock, and The Five Doctors, the 20th-anniversary special.
In parallel with his television work, Dicks became one of the most prolific writers of Doctor Who novelisations for Target Books, authoring over 60 titles and serving as the de facto editor of the range. These adaptations introduced a generation of young readers to the franchise. Beyond Doctor Who, he also wrote original novels, including children’s horror and adventure series such as The Baker Street Irregulars, Star Quest, and The Adventures of Goliath.
Dicks also worked on other television programmes including The Avengers, Moonbase 3, and various BBC literary adaptations. His later work included audio dramas and novels tied to Doctor Who. Widely respected for his clarity, imagination, and dedication to storytelling, he remained a central figure in Doctor Who fandom until his death in 2019, leaving behind a vast legacy in television and children's literature.

Reviews

[Derelict Space Sheep · Rating 4 out of 5]

This first book of the Baker Street Irregulars series shows Terrance Dicks to be right at home in a London setting. Unlike his Doctor Who novelisations, the Holmes-inspired mystery is rich in background detail and characterisation, its investigation offering plenty of suspense!

[Seth · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Baker street Irregulars is a great series of books, that stand out in my memory even though I read them long ago. This book is the starting piece of the series, and really is essential if you want to understand the unique characters. Filled with humor and hijinks as the children try to solve an adult mystery, this book may be a bit young for adult readers, but is definitely a worthwhile read for grade schoolers and high schoolers.

[Krista the Krazy Kataloguer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this-- wish I could read more in the series.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part of the Baker Street Irregulars series