Agatha Christie was an English author of detective fiction, widely considered one of the most influential writers in the genre. She was born on September 15, 1890, in Torquay, Devon, and died on January 12, 1976, in Wallingford, Oxfordshire.

Christie wrote 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, as well as a number of plays, many of which have been adapted for film, television, and stage productions. Her best-known characters include Hercule Poirot, a Belgian detective with a distinctive mustache, and Miss Marple, an elderly spinster who solves crimes in her village.

Christie's writing career began in 1920 with the publication of her first novel, "The Mysterious Affair at Styles," which introduced Hercule Poirot to readers. Her works are known for their intricate plots, surprising twists, and ingenious solutions. Her novels have sold over 2 billion copies worldwide, making her one of the best-selling authors of all time.

Christie's personal life was just as intriguing as her novels. She had a love of travel, and her experiences in places such as Egypt and Iraq often found their way into her stories. She was also known for her disappearance in 1926, which sparked a massive manhunt and captivated the public's imagination.

Despite her immense popularity and success, Christie remained a private person throughout her life. She was appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1971 for her contribution to literature, and her legacy as the Queen of Crime continues to inspire new generations of writers and readers alike.