The Best of Sherlock Holmes

 

The Best Sherlock Holmes Books, Movies, DVDs & More

By Randall Stock, October 31, 2023 (History)

There are hundreds of Holmes books, movies, and other Sherlockian items to consider.  See the best choices for new fans, and a separate section with the best new items produced in 2023.

 

The Top 10 Gifts for New Sherlock Holmes Fans

Category # of Items
The Best Book of Sherlock Holmes Stories 1
More Stories of Sherlock Holmes 2
More by Conan Doyle 1
Holmes Movies 2
Books About Holmes & Conan Doyle 4
Free Bonus Items  

 

New in 2023: The Year's Best Sherlock Holmes Items

Category # of Items
New Holmes Fiction 5
New Holmes DVDs, Movies, and Related 2
New Books About Holmes & Conan Doyle 3

 

About the Choices

 


 

Classic Sherlock Holmes Gifts for New Fans – The Essentials

 

The Best Sherlock Holmes Book for New Fans

For someone new to the Sherlock Holmes stories, the best place to start is by reading The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes followed by The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes.  These collections include the seven best Holmes short stories

 

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle wrote 60 Holmes tales.  These are available in at least 10 different complete collections, plus many other copies of individual books.  Because most of the Holmes stories are out of copyright, there are numerous cheap, shoddy, or indifferent versions of the stories.  However, there are a number of good-quality editions.  Each has strengths and weaknesses.  I've listed the ones that are the best for a new Holmes fan.

 

Best choice under $15 (12 stories, including 4 of the top 10 stories overall)

 

The New Annotated Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Leslie S. Klinger (ed.)

A classy and classic gift for anyone interested in Sherlock Holmes.  The complete set includes all 60 original stories, accompanied by hundreds of illustrations and a wealth of notes by Klinger that explain the Victorian world and delve into the nuances of the tales.  It consists of three large (10.4 x 9 inches) and heavy hardcover books.  Some formats might only be available used, so check all the links below.

 

Best Complete Collection

New Annotated Sherlock Holmes - Leslie S. Klinger bookNew Annotated Sherlock Holmes Novels Vol. 3 - Klinger book

Start with Volume 1 of the Short Stories, which has 24 stories including 7 of the top 10 Holmes tales.  The printed version includes many illustrations and extensive annotations adjacent to the text, and so I think most users will find it more enjoyable than the e-book.

 

Slipcased Version of The New Annotated Sherlock Holmes

These hardcovers (as shown above) come with a handsome slipcase to display and protect the book when you're not reading it.  However, you may only find used copies.

 

Best Holmes Book under $15

Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Richard Lancelyn Green book

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes (Oxford edition) by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Richard Lancelyn Green (ed.)

Oxford paperback edition ($12.95 SRP; Amazon US listing $12.95)

 

If you want a paperback volume that's less expensive and easier to carry and hold, get this Oxford edition of The Adventures.  It has 12 stories, including 4 of the top 10 Holmes tales.  Conan Doyle expert Richard Lancelyn Green provides an excellent introduction and fine annotations that don't interfere with reading the story.  It has no illustrations, but the overall quality of information and accurate text makes it the best paperback choice for a new fan.

 

The Amazon link above takes you to the Oxford paperback.  Clicking other formats on that page can display different (non-Oxford) versions that I don't recommend.  Get the version with a title page crediting Richard Lancelyn Green as the editor.

 

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More Stories of Sherlock Holmes by Other Authors

There are more than a thousand Holmes or Holmes-related stories by other authors.  Some of these "pastiches" are very good, but unfortunately many of them are marginal.  Opinions of them diverge wildly, so I've just listed two (plus a bonus) that have been around for 30+ years and are especially notable. 

 

The Exploits of Sherlock Holmes by Adrian Conan Doyle and John Dickson Carr

Exploits of Sherlock Holmes - Conan Doyle - John Dickson Carr book

This book includes twelve short stories based on some of the untold tales in Sir Arthur's originals.  The stories are written by his son and by noted mystery author John Dickson Carr.  The book does not appear to be in print, but you will find some copies listed at Amazon US.

 

The Seven-Per-Cent Solution by Nicholas Meyer

The Seven Percent Solution - Nicholas Meyer book

On the New York Times bestseller list for more than eight months, this classic sparked the Sherlock Holmes revival of the 1970s.  We learn the truth about Professor Moriarty, Holmes's cocaine addiction, and his meeting with Sigmund Freud.  A clever concept and brilliantly executed, Meyer blends historical figures with Sherlockian insights and a bit of adventure.  The movie version on Blu-ray is also nicely done and well worth watching. 
($20.00 SRP; Amazon US listing $15.69)

 

Bonus: Almost Sherlock Holmes

The Solar Pons series by August Derleth

Set in London from 1919–1939, this spinoff version of Holmes features the detective Solar Pons, his partner Dr. Parker, a brother named Bancroft, and Mrs. Johnson the landlady.  Highly recommended, with better stories, plots and puzzles than most Holmes pastiches.

Start with either the first or second book above.  The Kindle versions are more affordable than the trade paperback.  Or you can sometimes find used regular paperbacks at a lower price.

 

There are also other Solar Pons stories written by Basil Cooper and by David Marcum, but I have not read them.  Marcum has published some excellent Holmes pastiches, and so after reading the Derleth tales, I'd try Marcum's Papers of Solar Pons.

 

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More Stories by Conan Doyle

 

The Lost World by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Annotated Lost World - Roy Pilot - Alvin Rodin book

Conan Doyle's other classic creation took readers to a world of dinosaurs and adventure.  It's a great adventure story and inspired numerous movies and books, including Jurassic Park.  There are many basic paperback editions on Amazon.  The best edition, now out of print, is the deluxe illustrated hardcover The Annotated Lost World edited by Roy Pilot and Alvin Rodin.

 

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Holmes in the Movies

With his 2009 movie Sherlock Holmes, Robert Downey, Jr. joined more than 70 actors who have played the great detective in over 200 films.  That makes Holmes "the most portrayed literary human character" on screen according to Guinness World Records.  New fans should see at least one of the top Rathbone films and one of the more recent depictions of Holmes noted below.

 

Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes

Rathbone is arguably the best-known Holmes of the movies.  In part that's because he made 14 Holmes films, but it's also a reflection of his acting skill, his striking appearance, and the quality of at least some of these movies.  All are on DVD, but there are many different versions.  For extensive details, see my list of the Ten Best Basil Rathbone Sherlock Holmes Movies on DVD

 

Adventures of Sherlock - Scarlet Claw - Basil Rathbone DVD

The best value for a new fan is a double-feature edition of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes / The Scarlet Claw.  It gives you two of the top three Rathbone films, plus extras including audio commentary for both movies, a photo gallery, and a trailer for The Scarlet Claw.  Ignore the color cover and Amazon details: these are in the original atmospheric black & white. ($19.98 SRP; Amazon US listing $9.53)

 

If you prefer a film based on a Holmes story, Rathbone's Hound of the Baskervilles is his second-best Holmes film and a reasonably faithful adaptation of Sherlock Holmes's most famous case.  You can usually buy it in a special double-feature with the lower-rated Pursuit to Algiers for a few dollars more than the separate DVD version.  The double-feature gets you an extra movie while the separate DVD has a nice booklet and might have a little better picture quality.

 

There is a Complete Sherlock Holmes Collection 5-DVD set for people who want a good deal on all 14 Rathbone movies.  The Blu-ray version is not significantly better than the DVD version, so get the DVD set unless the Blu-ray is almost the same price.

 

 

Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes in the 21st Century

Sherlock: Season One - Benedict Cumberbatch DVD / Blu-ray

Although not a movie, this new vision of Holmes in present-day London truly captures the sense and spirit of the Conan Doyle stories and characters.  Sherlockians will delight in the clever use of elements from the originals, while casual viewers will enjoy the fast-paced modern mysteries and adventures.  Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman dazzle as Holmes and Watson.  The two discs feature all three original uncut UK BBC episodes, which are each 8 minutes longer than the abridged versions shown by PBS in the USA.  See my 2010 review of Sherlock: Season One for details on the disc Extras.  The Blu-ray has the same content but in 1080i.  Like the CSI TV series, some material might be too mature for children.  ($34.98 SRP; Amazon US listing $14.37 DVD, Blu-ray/Multi-Format $20.95).

 

Series fans will also want to check out:

 

If instead you want a Victorian Holmes from the big screen, consider getting the 2010 release of the Robert Downey, Jr. Sherlock Holmes movie or my 2009 pick of Murder by Decree.

 

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Books About Holmes & Conan Doyle

 

Sherlock Holmes Handbook: Second Edition by Christopher Redmond

Sherlock Holmes Handbook - Christopher Redmond book

This marvelous book offers the best introduction and general reference to the world of Sherlock Holmes.  First get and read the original Conan Doyle stories – then get this book for a background to the tales and everything they've spawned.  Besides covering all the stories, it discusses the characters, the themes, the movie and television versions, the Victorian era, Conan Doyle, and the entire Holmes phenomenon.  It's an essential book if you don't have an annotated edition, and still useful even if you do have one.  While there are other similar types of books, this one gets the facts right and is the best-written.  Chris Redmond is a noted Sherlockian expert: be sure to get the 2009 second edition by him, not something by other authors with similar titles.  ($32.00 SRP; Amazon US listing $24.00)

 

The Man Who Created Sherlock Holmes: The Life and Times of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle by Andrew Lycett

Man Who Created Sherlock Holmes - Andrew Lycett book

This up-to-date, comprehensive biography of Conan Doyle is ideal for new fans and even seasoned Sherlockians.  Lycett's careful research included access to the Conan Doyle archives, and unlike almost all other Conan Doyle biographies, it provides extensive source notes.  ($32.99 SRP; Amazon US listing $26.39; also in hardcover)

 

Arthur Conan Doyle: A Life in Letters by Daniel Stashower, Jon Lellenberg, and Charles Foley

Arthur Conan Doyle: A Life in Letters - Stashower - Lellenberg book

The first book of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's private letters provides a first-hand, unvarnished account of his life until 1920.  See my detailed review of A Life in Letters.  While a biography offers a broader view of his life and work, these letters reveal details of everyday life and give a more personal impression of Doyle the man.  ($18.00 SRP; Amazon US listing $14.82; also in hardcover)

 

The Baker Street Journal / The Sherlock Holmes Journal

Anyone interested in Sherlock Holmes and Conan Doyle should consider subscribing to at least one of these two leading journals on the subject.  The Baker Street Irregulars, an American literary society, has published The Baker Street Journal since 1946 and has an eBSJ 1946-2011 PDF Archive.  The Sherlock Holmes Society of London publishes The Sherlock Holmes Journal and has an eSHJ 1952-2021 PDF Archive.  To subscribe, see the BSI website and the SHSL website for details.

 

Bonus Items for Free

Free Sherlockian Newsletters

Peter E. Blau produces Scuttlebutt from the Spermaceti Press, a monthly newsletter that is available in printed form or for free online via his Scuttlebutt web page.  Paul Thomas Miller edits The District Messenger, the newsletter of the Sherlock Holmes Society of London, which is available free via email or online at the SHSL District Messenger webpage.

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What's New in 2023: Top Holmes Gifts for Sherlockians

 

2023 Sherlock Holmes Books – Fiction

The year's best fictional Holmes books published in 2023.  Listed in order by author, see also About the Choices and E-books
Prices as of November 2023; subject to change.

 

Sherlock Holmes and Mr Hyde by Christian Klaver

Sherlock Holmes and Mr Hyde - Christian Klaver

Dr. Jekyll asks Holmes to exonerate Mr. Edward Hyde, who is a suspect in a series of brutal Ripper-style murders. Like the TV series Penny Dreadful, Klaver brings together classic monsters and characters in fundamentally new stories. His first Holmes book with Count Dracula is excellent and provides essential background for the Hyde novel, so I suggest reading his Dracula book first. Klaver includes a more rational layer to the monster/vampire mythos that lifts the tales above simplistic supernatural fantasy.  ($16.95 SRP; Amazon US listing $16.95)

 

Sherlock Holmes and The Highgate Horrors by James Lovegrove

Sherlock Holmes and The Highgate Horrors - James Lovegrove

Lovegrove concludes his 4-volume Holmes- Cthulhu crossover series by filling in some gaps from his prior books, notably those involving Irene Adler. He again explores the macabre events that presumably inspired Watson's more mundane accounts like "The Illustrious Client" and several other Canonical stories. I particularly enjoyed his tale of madness and murder in the Arctic even though it is more Doylean than Sherlockian. The mix of supernatural and science fantasy should appeal to fans of those genres, while his earlier Christmas mystery is more geared to traditional Sherlockians.  ($22.95 SRP; Amazon US listing $22.93)

 

Golden Age Bibliomysteries by Otto Penzler (ed.)

Golden Age Bibliomysteries - Otto Penzler

BSI and crime fiction expert Otto Penzler presents 14 mysteries involving the world of books. Stories by Anthony Boucher, James Gould Cozzens, C. Daly King, and Cornell Woolrich are excellent, and seven others get a grade of at least "A-". The anthology's first story is the weakest, so keep reading. The only Holmes tale is Starrett's widely reprinted "Unique Hamlet," but mystery lovers should enjoy this strong wide-ranging collection. Penzler's introduction to each story makes them even more interesting.  ($27.95 SRP; Amazon US listing $20.35)

 

Sherlock Holmes - The Monster of the Mere by Philip Purser-Hallard

Sherlock Holmes - The Monster of the Mere - Philip Purser-Hallard

Holmes and Watson investigate a bizarre death in 1899 that might involve a legendary monster. This intensely atmospheric tale with reasonably authentic Watson style is more of an adventure-thriller than a mystery. The suspense builds nicely after a slow opening, although the resolution stretches plausibility. Parts of the story remind you of the Hound and of the Lost World. Last year's Masters of Lies by Purser-Hallard provided a very different type of Holmes story with an excellent plot twist.  ($15.95 SRP; Amazon US listing $14.68)

 

Enola Holmes and the Mark of the Mongoose by Nancy Springer

Enola Holmes and the Mark of the Mongoose - Nancy Springer

A young American publisher disappears in London, and Enola must use all her resources to prevent a terrible death. While Sherlock and his slightly awkward teenage sister help each other with the investigation, the story centers on Enola. You can enjoy this book on its own, but it's even better if you read the entire series in order starting with The Missing Marquess. Springer's blend of action and history in a fast-paced adventure is hard to beat.  ($20.00 SRP; Amazon US listing $20.00)

 

Holmes Coming by Kenneth Johnson

Holmes Coming - Kenneth Johnson

While it sometimes shows its roots in the 1993 TV movie that Johnson wrote, this novel gets included as one of the year's best books and fits in both the fiction and movie-related categories. See the entry below for my review of Holmes Coming.

 

See also the Best 2022 Holmes fiction and the Best Holmes fiction from other years for more excellent choices.

Or search just this website using Google for other reviews of authors or book titles:

 

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2023 Sherlock Holmes DVDs, Blu-ray Movies, and Related

The year's best DVDs, Blu-ray Discs, videos, movie-related and audio items released in 2023.  More About the Choices.
See also the two best Holmes movies for new fans above.  Prices as of November 2023; subject to change.

 

Holmes Coming by Kenneth Johnson

Holmes Coming - Kenneth Johnson

After putting himself into suspended animation in 1899, Holmes awakens in 2022 San Francisco and faces new challenges in this novelization update of Johnson's 1993 TV movie Sherlock Holmes Returns. His premise works even better now that Holmes must deal with smartphones, the Internet and the social changes of the past 30 years. Johnson's clever use of the original Holmes in modern times makes for a fun and diverting story that nicely incorporates many elements of the Canon.  ($25.99 SRP; Amazon US listing $18.69)

 

Conan Doyle: Mystery and Adventure by Mark Jones

Conan Doyle: Mystery and Adventure - Mark Jones

Before he worked on the 1980s Holmes TV series with Jeremy Brett, John Hawkesworth developed a 1960s BBC2 series featuring non-Sherlockian stories by Conan Doyle. Mark Jones uses the BBC archives and Hawkesworth's papers to recount the history and afterlife of this "lost" series and key points in Hawkesworth's life. It has little Sherlockian material, but should appeal to Doyleans and those interested in TV production.  ($35.00 SRP; not on Amazon; see Lulu or the UK publisher website)

 

Special Consideration

While not new releases, the following choices offer special values to consider this year:

 

Elementary: The Complete Series Starring Jonny Lee Miller (DVD)

Elementary: The Complete Series Starring Jonny Lee Miller (DVD)

With its consistently excellent writing and first-rate performances, Elementary stands far above the typical TV show. Its mix of strong character development with superior puzzles and twisty plots makes it a pleasure to watch. In 2019, CBS PR confirmed the Complete Series includes all 154 episodes on 39 DVDs, plus one more disc of extras that was previously available only at Target as a bonus disc with Season 1. A 2020 repackaged version is available from Amazon at a reduced price, making it a great value.  ($86.99 SRP; Amazon US listing $54.44)

 

They Might Be Giants Starring George C. Scott (Blu-ray)

They Might Be Giants Starring George C. Scott (Blu-ray)

A retired judge in 1970s New York believes he is Sherlock Holmes and is placed under the care of psychiatrist Dr. Mildred Watson. While not a traditional Holmes mystery, Scott and Joanne Woodward are terrific actors in this offbeat movie. I have an older DVD, but this Blu-ray features several extra minutes not seen in theaters, English subtitles, and an 8-minute featurette at a reduced price from Amazon. Be sure to get the 2019 Special Edition Blu-ray version which works on standard USA disc players.  ($29.95 SRP; Amazon US listing $19.99)

 

See also the Best 2022 Holmes DVDs and movies and the Best Holmes movies from other years for more excellent choices.

Or search just this website using Google for other reviews of movie/TV material:

 

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2023 Books About Holmes & Conan Doyle

The year's best books about Holmes or Conan Doyle published in 2023.  Listed in order by author; more About the Choices and E-books.
See also the best books about Holmes & Conan Doyle for new fans above.  Prices as of November 2023; subject to change.

 

The Haven Horror by Phillip G. Bergem (ed.)

The Haven Horror - Phillip G. Bergem

This BSI book features a full-color reproduction of the manuscript of “The Retired Colourman” along with a precise transcription, detailed annotations, and the history of the manuscript. Essays on artificial limbs, the telephone, illustrations for the story, and a wide range of other topics will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the tale.  ($39.95 SRP; not on Amazon, see the BSI website)

 

Stimulating Medicine by Robert S. Katz and Andrew L. Solberg (eds.)

Stimulating Medicine - Katz Solberg

Medicine plays a defining role in the Holmes stories. Conan Doyle trained as a physician, modeled Holmes on Dr. Joseph Bell, and used Dr. Watson as the narrator of the tales. This sequel to Nerve and Knowledge covers new topics with medical connections to the Canon. A few contributors return to this volume, but the 21 essays offer many new perspectives.  ($39.95 SRP; not on Amazon, see the BSI website)

 

The Worlds of Sherlock Holmes by Andrew Lycett

The Worlds of Sherlock Holmes - Andrew Lycett

Lycett mixes history, biography, and fandom in this uniquely appealing volume. Known for his outstanding Conan Doyle biography, he also produced a fine collection of Conan Doyle’s travel writings. Now Lycett explores the environment and influences that shaped Holmes originally and in later stage/screen adaptations and pastiches. He treats Holmes and Conan Doyle evenly, finding just the right balance between playing the game and actual history. Lycett also includes pictures on every page, many in color. This makes the book an excellent choice both for casual browsing or for more in-depth reading.  ($32.00 SRP; Amazon US listing $27.98)

 

See also the Best 2022 books about Holmes & Doyle and the Best Books About Holmes & Doyle from other years for more fine choices.

Or search just this website using Google for other reviews of authors or book titles:

 

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History

This site first published its "Best of Year" reviews and recommendations in 2009.  See all the previous best Holmes books and DVDs / Blu-ray selections.  People just getting started with Holmes should see the best choices for new Sherlockians at the top of the current page.

 

This page's 2023 list was first posted on October 31, 2023. 

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About Kindle and Other E-books

A Kindle version of most of these books is available, but I don't list the e-book or its price unless it's hard to find on Amazon.  Typically the Kindle Edition will be listed in the Formats box to the right of a book's cover photo.

 

When a book is available in both print and e-text, I review the print edition.

 

Return to Holmes Fiction or to Books About Holmes & Doyle.

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About the Choices

The good news for people interested in Sherlock Holmes is that there are so many books and related items beyond the original 60 tales.  The bad news is there are so many items – how do you choose what to get?  I've tried to simplify things by highlighting the best material for a new Sherlockian, and the best new items for long-time Sherlockians.

 

My choices are based on 30+ years of reading and collecting Sherlockiana.  I'm a member of the Baker Street Irregulars, have written numerous Sherlockian articles, and have spoken about Conan Doyle rarities for conferences at Harvard and the University of Minnesota.

 

Selection criteria include my personal evaluation, other reviews, and price/value considerations.  I read numerous Sherlockian publications for recommended new material and try to examine their top choices.  For very new or unpublished items, I try to get advance copies or enough information to render a judgment.  However, in order to publish this review before the holidays, items released after October 15 are usually evaluated for next year's list.

 

I've found all the items on this page to be enjoyable and/or useful, and place them among the best in their category.  They've also received strong positive reviews from Sherlockian and/or general publications.  Finally, in selecting items I consider both quality and price/value.

 

I limit the number of items in order to make this list easier and faster for people to use.  However, that does mean there are some very good items that didn't quite make my list.  And it's possible that I simply didn't get a chance to evaluate some 2023 items – feel free to send me email if you think there is something that should be on the list.

 

In most cases I've given both the U.S. suggested retail price (SRP) and the price at Amazon as of November 2023; those prices are of course subject to change.

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Related Web Pages

The Best 2022 Sherlock Holmes books and DVDs / Blu-ray

 

All Prior Year's Best Sherlock Holmes books and DVDs / Blu-ray

 

The 10 Best Basil Rathbone Sherlock Holmes Movies and DVDs

 

The Best Sherlock Holmes Stories

 

The Top 10 Quotes from the Sherlock Holmes stories

 

Other Top 10 Lists for Sherlock Holmes and Conan Doyle

 

 

 


 

Vers. 2.1lx-RN Original work
Copyright ©2023  Randall Stock. All Rights Reserved.