Classic Amateur Sleuths
Sherlock Holmes
Arthur Conan Doyle
Sherlock Holmes is the standard by which all fictional amateur sleuths are judged.
Many of us developed our love of mysteries by reading the short stories and novels of the master of deduction.
His powers of observation, mastery of disguises, and fearlessness combined to create stories that have captured readers and driven movies and television adaptations.
Miss Marple
Agatha Christie
Miss Marple is the prototype of the cosy mystery female amateur sleuth. From her humble cottage in St. Mary’s Mead, she solves crimes while surprising both the police and the reader.
Her deep understanding of human behavior coupled with her amazing attention to detail enables her to see crimes developing before they are committed.
Hercule Poirot
Agatha Christie
The diminutive Belgian detective is one of the most beloved detectives in fiction. His unusual appearance, fussy mannerisms, and belief that he is the greatest detective in the world, combine to create a character that amazes and amuses.
With Poirot, Christie was able to present puzzles so baffling, that readers are kept guessing until he calls all the suspects together and names the killer.