Agatha Christie’s Poirot

The Greatest Detective in the World

By: Mark Aldridge, Agatha Christie, Mark Gatiss - introduction

Narrated by: Clare Corbett

From the very first book publication in 1920 to the recent film release of Death on the Nile, this investigation into Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot celebrates a century of probably the world’s favourite fictional detective.

This book tells his story decade-by-decade, exploring his appearances not only in the original novels, short stories and plays but also across stage, screen and radio productions.

Poirot has had near-permanent presence in the public eye ever since the 1920 publication of The Mysterious Affair at Styles. From character development, publication history and private discussion concerning the original stories themselves, to early forays on to the stage and screen, the story of Poirot is as fascinating as it is enduring.

Based on the author’s original research, review excerpts and original Agatha Christie correspondence, Poirot: The Greatest Detective in the World is a lively and accessible history of the character, offering new information and helpful pieces of context, that will delight all Agatha Christie fans, from a new generation of readers to those already highly familiar with the canon.

Critic reviews

‘Delightful, detailed and compulsively readable.’ MARK GATISS

‘What a magnificent book! An essential component of every Poirot fan's book collection. I couldn't put it down.’ SOPHIE HANNAH

‘Exhaustively and entertainingly surveys the book, stage, radio, magazine and film appearances of that fussy little Belgian.’ MICHAEL DIRDA, WASHINGTON POST

'This quirky, trivia-filled look at a touchstone of detective fiction will have Christie fans young and old in heaven.' PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

enjoyed the ride

I enjoyed the history of the character through the various mediums through the many years.

very entertaining

A well done and well read rendition-lots of info for the Poirot addict LOL. Definitely recommend.

Agatha Junkie

I've been hooked on Poirot for twenty years at least. This is an interesting overview, told chronologically, of the Poirot books, plays and movies. I was very impressed that at no time did the author give away the solutions of the mysteries, so considerate. Included were frank assessments of the stories, strengths and weaknesses alike, most of which I generally agreed with, although in my heart, Agatha could basically do no wrong. Some stories are weaker than others, as far as entertainment value and it was refreshing to hear someone admit it.
I'm very picky about narrators and the woman who narrates does a great job and has a nice voice and delivery; not too showy but still captivating.
The reason that I gave it only 4 stars was that I was a bit disappointed because I had seen the hardcover book in Barnes & Noble and I missed the many cool pictures, (obviously)that I saw when I flipped thru it. That has nothing to do with the recording, of course, which is first rate.