Benedict Cumberbatch and Robert Downey Jr. have played the British detective - and his persona inspired television characters like Dr. Gregory House - but long before any actor ever donned a cap and pipe, Sherlock Holmes made his debut in literature. Below, you'll find every Sherlock Holmes book and short story, ranked from best to worst by your votes. Read on for a comprehensive list of every appearance the universally recognizable sleuth made throughout the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle! What is the best book in the Sherlock Holmes series? Help decide!
While it attracted little attention when it originally debuted, Holmes first appeared in A Study in Scarlet in 1887. Now, the novel is considered one of the best Sherlock Holmes books. Hound of the Baskervilles is another one of the most beloved in the Sherlock Holmes series. This novel – which was serialized in The Strand Magazine from early 1900s– finds Holmes uncovering the truth about a supernatural hound. A Scandal in Bohemia is the first short story of many tales that feature Sherlock Holmes. Other good books featuring the detective include The Adventure of Silver Blaze, The Adventure of the Norwood Builder, and The Adventure of the Speckled Band, all of which feature Sidney Paget's iconic artwork.
What's the best Sherlock Holmes book or story? Give your favorites a thumbs up below!
