Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by BiblioLifestyle
If you’re looking to start reading Agatha Christie books, then you’re in luck because I’ve created a beginner’s guide to reading her books! Agatha Christie is one of the most famous mystery writers of all time, and her books are a must-read for any fan of the genre. I was first introduced to Agatha Christie by my nan (paternal grandmother) and she recommended that I start with “The Body in the Library.” Since then, I haven’t looked back and I’ve gone on to read all of Christie’s works. So in this article, I’ll tell you a little about who Agatha Christie is and share five of Agatha Christie best books which quite honestly are must-reads for fans of the mystery genre, and they’re great starting points for new readers. So whether you’re just starting or looking for your next read, we’ve got you covered!
All About Agatha Christie
Who is Agatha Christie?
Agatha Christie is one of the most famous mystery writers of all time. She was born in England in 1890 and wrote her first book, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, in 1920. Agatha Christie then wrote more than 70 novels and short story collections during her lifetime, many of which are considered classics of the mystery genre. In addition, her books have been adapted for stage, film, and television and translated into over 100 languages. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Christie remains the bestselling fiction writer, with global sales exceeding over two billion copies worldwide.
To learn more about Agatha Christie, check out our The Mysterious World of Agatha Christie article.
What is Agatha Christie famous for?
Agatha Christie is best known for her detective novels, which feature characters Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. She is also the author of the world’s longest-running play, The Mousetrap. Agatha Christie’s books are still as popular today as when they were first published, and her work continues to influence authors and readers worldwide.
About Agatha Christie Books
What is Agatha Christie’s best-selling novel?
Agatha Christie’s best-selling novel is “And Then There Were None.” Published in 1939, the book tells the story of ten strangers who are invited to an isolated island, and one by one begin to die. The novel has since been adapted into numerous films and television shows as well as a successful stage play.
What is the most read Agatha Christie?
Agatha Christie’s most popular novel is arguably “Murder on the Orient Express,” which was first published in 1934. The novel follows detective Hercule Poirot as he investigates a murder aboard the luxurious Orient Express Train. The novel has since been adapted into several film and television adaptations and even a successful stage play.
What is the best Agatha Christie book to start with?
If you’re new to Agatha Christie, I recommend starting with one of her most famous novels, “And Then There Were None.” This is a classic mystery novel that tells the story of ten strangers who are invited to stay on an isolated island, only to find that someone is murdering them one by one. Agatha Christie’s writing is at its best in this novel, and it is an excellent introduction to her work.
The first Agatha Christie I read was “The Body in the Library” and it’s very much a personal favorite of mine and also another great starting point. Plus, during my chat with author Sophie Hannah, who is the author of the new Hercule Poirot novels authorized by the Agatha Christie estate, she recommended readers start with “The Body in the Library.”
The 5 Must-Read Books by Agatha Christie
For readers looking to explore Agatha Christie best books, here is a list of five must-read books:
- And Then There Were None
- Murder on the Orient Express
- The ABC Murders
- The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
- The Body in the Library
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
If you’re new to Agatha Christie, then we recommend starting with one of her most famous novels, And Then There Were None. This is a classic mystery novel about ten strangers who are invited to stay on an isolated island, only to find that someone is murdering them one by one. Agatha Christie’s writing is at its best in this novel and is an excellent introduction to her work.
Buy a copy on Amazon or Bookshop.
P.S. I did a mini deep dive on “And Then There Were None” in this article: Unraveling The Mystery of “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie: The Ultimate Guide.
Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
Another of Agatha Christie’s most famous novels, Murder on the Orient Express, is set on board the titular train. When one of the passengers is murdered, detective Hercule Poirot must solve the case before the killer strikes again. This is a fast-paced and suspenseful read that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie
The ABC Murders is one of Agatha Christie’s most suspenseful novels and features the iconic detective Hercule Poirot. In the novel, Poirot must solve a series of murders that occur across the country and appear to be connected by the letters of the alphabet. This is a complex and twisty mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd is one of Agatha Christie’s most famous novels and is often considered to be her masterpiece. The novel centers on the death of a wealthy man, Roger Ackroyd, and the ensuing investigation by detective Hercule Poirot. This is a complex and twisty mystery with multiple suspects, plenty of red herrings with an ending that will shock you.
The Body in the Library by Agatha Christie
Finally, I’m recommending The Body in the Library, which is another classic Agatha Christie mystery. In the novel, a young woman’s body is found in a wealthy couple’s library. It’s up to Agatha Christie’s famous detective Miss Marple must solve the case, with plenty of suspects and red herrings along the way. This is an excellent introduction to Agatha Christie’s work and will keep you guessing until the end.
Buy a copy on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Body in the Library is a Miss Marple mystery. You can find a list of The Miss Marple Books here.
What do you think about this list of Agatha Christie best books?
Have you read any books by Agatha Christie? Are any of these books or her other works on your TBR? What book by Agatha Christie is your favorite? What books would you add to this list? Let us talk about all things Agatha Christie in the comments below.
MORE READING:
- Test Your Agatha Christie Knowledge
- The Mysterious World of Agatha Christie
- Unraveling The Mystery of “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie: The Ultimate Guide
- Agatha Christie: The Miss Marple Books
- The Complete Agatha Christie Book List
- Sophie Hannah on Agatha Christie, Murder Mysteries and Christmas Traditions
- Exploring 6 Classic Mystery Novels: From Christie to Yokomizo
Thanks to you, I have started to read Agatha Christie! Thank you for recommending And Then There Were None. I’m really enjoying Christie’s writing style.
Hi Erin, thank you so much for sharing and I’m so glad you’re enjoying Christie! I’ve been hooked since I read my first book by her, The Body in the Library, and I’ve never looked back since. Happy reading!