Agatha Christie (born Agatha Mary Clarissa Miller, 15 September 1890 – 12 January 1976) was an English writer celebrated as the “Queen of Crime” and one of the best-selling novelists in history. She is best known for her 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, most featuring her iconic detectives Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple. Christie also wrote the world’s longest-running play, The Mousetrap, which premiered in 1952 and continues to be performed in London’s West End.

Born in Torquay, Devon, England, Christie was largely home-schooled and began writing during World War I while working as a nurse. Her debut novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles (1920), introduced Hercule Poirot and launched her literary career. Known for intricate plots, red herrings, and clever twists, her works have sold over two billion copies worldwide, translated into more than 100 languages.

In addition to her mysteries, Christie wrote romance novels under the pen name Mary Westmacott. She was made a Dame of the British Empire in 1971 for her contributions to literature. Christie died in 1976 at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence crime fiction and popular culture worldwide.