A Sherlock Holmes Double-Header: "A Study in Scarlet" and "The Sign of Four"

A STUDY IN SCARLET was Sherlock Holmes' first adventure, and the first sale for the author, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. We immediately see that Dr. Watson, Holmes confidante and "side-kick" has a background very similar to the author's. The good doctor enumerates Holmes; faults (starting with his habitual use of cocaine), as well as his more numerous good points (especially the detective's knowledge of chemistry and his violin playing). The story is a tale that shows Holmes' genius, but is also notable for Conan Doyle's apparent treatise on the Mormon religion. The events occur on two continents, and only Holmes (of course) can solve the riddle! THE SIGN OF FOUR was Sherlock Holmes' second adventure. Dr. Watson again assists Holmes, as they try to recover a beautiful blonde's missing treasure - and solve a murder or two along the way. Holmes' genius is showcased, but we see here the human side - of Dr. Watson, at least. The good doctor is falling for the damsel they are trying to help, despite his common sense telling him how bad an idea that is! All in all, Watson is the real Hero of this tale - even if Holmes does do all the leg and brain work! One of the best of the Sherlock Holmes tales. You'll be kept wanting to know the why's and wherefore's until the very end!