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The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes

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The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes

By: Arthur Conan Doyle
Narrated by: Derek Jacobi
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With his devoted Dr Watson, Holmes emerges from his smoke-filled rooms in Baker Street to grapple with the forces of treachery, intrigue and evil, including the diabolical Professor Moriarty.Public Domain (P)2008 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd Anthologies & Short Stories Crime Fiction Detective Fiction Mystery Private Investigators Traditional Detectives Classics Crime Funny Sherlock Holmes Short Story
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The older British public seem to prefer their “classics” read in deep, resonant, “classic BBC” voices, out of a belief that it lends gravity to our profound literary heritage. Factors influencing that preference would be the regular diet of recordings of Shakespeare plays received in school, and the popular costume dramas seen at the cinema, on TV, and heard on the radio. Ironically, we also have a love of authenticity, but only when it suits us ! From an audio book perspective, we should want the narrative of Dracula read with an Irish accent, and the Count’s dialogue a la Bela Lugosi : “Leeson to zem, ze cheeldren of ze nat. What mewsic zay mek !” But contrary as ever, most of us want the lot Christopher Lee style.

So how do we want our Sherlock read, then ? In the rich Edinburgh accent of Conan Doyle ? In the very English tones of Basil Rathbone or Jeremy Brett ? I have to admit a personal fondness for the voices of Basil Rathbone, and the bumbling Watson of Nigel Stock. But as the vast majority of the narrative is from the notebooks of Doctor Watson, a comic, Stock-like voice might begin to try one’s patience after a while. Would an American accent seem inappropriate ? Of course it would, just as you would not expect Stephen Fry to attempt re-makes of John Wayne movies ! ( That would indeed be the day ! ! )

If money is no object, and you love Sherlock, get all three ! Realistically, prioritising your requirements is the best way forward : cost, completeness, or sound.

Excellent

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You know Sherlock Holmes. You've seen adaptations on TV, you know his stories. But, listening/reading the books is just wonderful. By reading, you gain a deeper understanding of Holmes, of Watson, of Victorian England and Derek Jacobi is an amazing narrator. He is perfect for the job. So even though you may be familiar with the stories, have a listen and instead of being preoccupied with 'who done it' (cos you probably know already), enjoy the journey and allow Holmes to lead you there in his own unique way.

Brilliant

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This was my second listen to these most absorbing stories. It kept me listening for many hours, unable to tear myself away. Beautifully narrated once again by Derek Jacobi.

Absorbing listen

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Narration throughout is excellent, with exactly the right tone and pace of delivery. A range of Sherlock stories, some familiar and it finishes with the meeting with Moriarty at the Falls. Really enjoyed this, with most chapters just the right length to complete in a single sitting.

Great narration

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Wonderful stories as any Holmes fan knows, excellently narrated by Derek Jacobi who puts on different (but not stupid) voices for each character, top marks.

Perfect

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