Ok, so we have the Sherlock discussion thread for the modern day tv series (which is excellent, for those who've still yet to check it out), but I've decided to set up a thread for the original Holmes stories. I hate to admit that I've only read a few of these stories, but all I've read have been rather brilliant. I think one thing that appeals to me greatly about the novels is its rather unique narrative, with the use of first person not only giving us a direct insight into Watson's point of view of both Holmes and the world, but also how it makes clear that he's essentially "reporting" these things to the public and that many people read them. That kind of "real world" trick is sometimes difficult to get right, but the few stories I've read so far seem to get it spot on without ruining the narrative or characters.
Holmes fans: any particular favourites? I must admit, The Speckled Band is one I have a soft spot for, partly because it was the first one I read as a kid. There's too many I have to catch up on though, not least of all The Final Problem.