As a reviewer below noted, these aren't the most famous stories in the world of Holmes, but they are still great. I've read all 60 Holmes stories, and there is not a dull one. Besides, you're in for a few surprises in this one. For one, there are stories told through the viewpoint of Holmes himself! True, it doesn't quite hold the same magic as does Watson's narrative, but it is an interesting novelty for Holmes fans (there are only three Holmes stories not told through the viewpoint of Watson: two by Holmes, and one in third person). Also, these were the last Holmes books ever published! Instead of killing him off as he did before, Doyle simply writes a preface to the stories in which he says, among other things, "so say goodbye to Mr. Sherlock Holmes!". Which we did, much to the literature buying public's chagrin.