The Importance of Being Poirot

Jeremy Black provides a guided tour through Agatha Christie's mind and life during the Great World Wars, highlighting her literary craft and social commentary. He also recognizes Christies critics when they have something relevant to say, making his book a thrilling masterpiece that seduces historians and crime junkies alike.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 29 October 2021
Publisher: St Augustine's Press

Renowned British historian Jeremy Black delves into the intricate mind of Agatha Christie and the tumultuous era of the Great World Wars in his captivating book. With his exceptional treatment of literary craft evolving alongside global military engagements, Black's work almost overshadows the inherent allure of the crime drama at the heart of his narrative. Indeed, the "prurience and sensationalism" of crime pales in comparison to Black's remarkable ability to extract reality from fiction and peripheral sources, granting Christie a much louder voice than she could have ever imagined. If Christie is also a moralist and a mirror to her times, Black assumes the role of the detective, unveiling previously unexplored truths within her stories.

Hercule Poirot, the iconic character, is masterfully conceived by Black, but he also reveals how Poirot is inseparable from Christie's turbulent and ever-changing world. Through his insightful analysis, Black sheds light on significant social commentary embedded within Christie's fiction, often using his authoritative voice to defend Christie's work against hastily applied labels and interpretations. His chapters, particularly "Xenophobia" and "The Sixties," are particularly magnificent, showcasing Black's expertise and depth of knowledge.

While Black acknowledges the contributions of Christie's critics when they offer relevant and reasonable insights, he remains steadfast in his commitment to presenting a comprehensive review of the reviewers throughout Christies remarkable writing career. This added value to his work makes it a valuable resource for both enthusiasts and scholars alike.

What sets Black apart as a historian is his ability to discern the deeper meaning within stories that aim to unravel the past and provide guidance for the present. His erudition extends far beyond his proficiency in navigating the vast resources available on the subject, allowing the reader to glimpse a profound understanding of Christie's life and work. Black's book is a testament to his dedication to storytelling and his unwavering commitment to exploring the intricacies of human nature and historical events.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 159 x 235 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781587314278