The Sherlockians! discussion

Dear Friends ~

My daughter has recently hinted that the best birthday present I could give her next month is the Complete Sherlock Holmes. I received a copy in 1970 myself, but it's just a thick hardback with a plain brown cover. I want to buy my Emily a gift that is as lovely to look at as it is fun to read --- possibly one that includes the original Sidney Paget illustrations. This is not a necessity, just something I felt might be interesting.

I've heard good things about the Barnes and Noble edition, but I haven't seen it. Is it a very handsome book? Is it illustrated? Is it the best available, or can you think of a better volume?

So far I've restricted myself to modern books. Does anyone know of a vintage or even antique edition that would surpass all contemporary copies? I unabashedly adore my daughter, and this is a "significant" birthday; so of course, I want to give her the very BEST Sherlock Holmes!

Which Complete Sherlock would you give to the Irene Adler in your life?

With many thanks in advance ~
Deborah

There are two Annotated Sherlock Holmes that are very good. The two volume set from the '70s by William Baring Gould attempts to put the stories in chronological order with extensive notes and illustrations, plus a few essays. Many Sherlockians have quibbled with his chronology, but it would still be a real find.
Sherlockian expert Leslie Klinger also put out an annotated, 3 volume set some years back, lots of illustrations, intro by John LeCarre and supplemental material.

Thanks, J, I am truly inspired. I will start looking for the Baring Gould right away.