Philo Gubb, Correspondence-School Detective

"Philo Gubb, Correspondence-School Detective" by Ellis Parker Butler is a funny story from the early 1900s about Philo Gubb, a paper-hanger who dreams of being a detective. Philo takes classes through the mail to learn how to solve crimes. The book is full of funny moments as Philo deals with strange events and weird characters. One of these characters includes his shady roommate, Mr. Critz, who wants to become a con man. At the beginning of the book, we meet Philo, who is a bit clumsy but very sincere, and Mr. Critz, who is up to no good. When Philo accidentally sees what Critz is doing in his room, he ruins Critz's plan to trick someone with a fake bar of gold. This sets the stage for a funny and light story that has lots of laughs, and it is perfect for readers who like stories that are not too serious.