After 47 years of selling mysteries, Sleuth of Baker Street will close its doors for the final time on November 8, 2026.
In a recent newsletter to customers, long-time owners Marian and JD announced their retirement after 44 years at the helm, describing their time running the bookstore as “the best job in the world.” Sleuth first opened in October 1979, with Marian and JD taking over in October 1982.
Many Leaside residents will remember Sleuth from its years at 1600 Bayview Avenue. In March 2011, the bookstore packed up and moved to Millwood Road near Sutherland Drive, where it has continued serving mystery lovers for another 15 years.
According to the newsletter, the store will be open from noon to 4 p.m. October 23–25 and daily from October 30 through November 8, giving customers a chance to collect reserved books, redeem gift certificates and say goodbye.
A big sale to clear out the fixtures is tentatively planned for early 2027.
It’s sad to say goodbye to another long-standing neighbourhood business, and we wish Marian, JD and the entire Sleuth family a very happy retirement.