Thorndike Press large print biographies and memoirs.

"Agatha Christie was not only the most successful author of detective stories the world has ever known, she was also a mystery in herself, giving only the rarest interviews--declining absolutely to become any sort of public figure. Distinguished crime novelist H. R. F. Keating brings together a dozen noted writers to throw light on the ever-intriguing Dame Agatha. Some essays analyze Christie's art itself; some explain the reasons for her success. The myriad of angles explored here are penetrating, affectionate, enthusiastic, analytical, and even funny. Together, they give insight into the life and work of the First Lady of Crime"--

Introduction to the 2021 edition /

by Sophie Hannah --

Introduction /

by H.R.F. Keating -- Case of the escalating sales / Elizabeth Walter -- Mistress of complication / Julian Symons -- Mistress of simplicity / Edmund Crispin -- A very English lady / Michael Gilbert -- Cornwallis's revenge / Emma Lathen -- Message of Mayhem Parva / Colin Watson -- Christie everybody knew / Celia Fremlin -- Christie nobody knew / Dorothy B. Hughes -- A Midas gift to the theatre / J.C. Trewin -- Agatha Christie films / Philip Jenkinson -- Music and mystery / William Weaver -- Miss Marple -a portrait / Christianna Brand -- Hercules Poirot -a companion portrait / H.R.F. Keating