Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express Book Summary
TL;DR
A murder mystery aboard the snowbound Orient Express where detective Hercule Poirot must solve the murder of a wealthy American tycoon stabbed in his locked compartment.
What is Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express about
Agatha Christie's 'Murder on the Orient Express' is a classic detective novel that takes readers on a suspenseful journey aboard the luxurious yet stranded Orient Express. Set just after midnight, the train is halted by a snowdrift, and by morning, a wealthy American passenger is found dead, stabbed multiple times. Renowned detective Hercule Poirot is tasked with solving the mystery, uncovering a web of secrets among the passengers. The novel is a masterclass in plotting and character development, reflecting Christie's expertise in the mystery genre.
Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express 6 Key Takeaways
The Train Halts
The Orient Express is unexpectedly stopped by a snowdrift, setting the stage for the isolated environment where the murder takes place. This creates a closed circle of suspects.
Discovery of the Murder
The American tycoon, Ratchett, is found dead in his compartment, stabbed twelve times. His door is locked from the inside, adding a layer of mystery to the crime.
Investigation Begins
Hercule Poirot begins his meticulous investigation, interviewing each passenger and uncovering their alibis and secrets. The diverse backgrounds and stories of the passengers add complexity to the case.
Revelations
Poirot discovers that Ratchett was an alias for Cassetti, a gangster responsible for a notorious kidnapping and murder. This revelation ties many of the passengers to the case.
The Climax
Poirot presents two solutions: one implicates a mysterious outsider, while the other reveals a conspiracy among the passengers, each having a motive linked to the kidnapping case.
The Resolution
Poirot leaves the decision to the police, who choose the first solution. The moral and ethical questions raised by the case are left for the reader to ponder.
Top Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express Quotes
- 'The impossible could not have happened, therefore the impossible must be possible in spite of appearances.'
- 'I believe, Messieurs, in loyalty—to one's friends and one's family and one's caste.'
Who should read Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express?
Fans of classic detective novels, mystery enthusiasts, and readers who appreciate intricate plots and character-driven stories will find 'Murder on the Orient Express' captivating. The book offers not only suspense but also a deep exploration of justice and morality.
Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express Best Reviews
- The New York Times describes it as 'A brilliantly executed and meticulously plotted mystery that exemplifies Christie's genius.'
- The Guardian hails it as 'A masterclass in suspense and intrigue, solidifying Christie's reputation as a pioneer in the genre.'
People also liked these summaries
Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express FAQs
Who is the protagonist in 'Murder on the Orient Express'?
The protagonist is Hercule Poirot, a renowned Belgian detective known for his sharp intellect and investigative prowess.
What is the main theme of 'Murder on the Orient Express'?
The main theme is justice, exploring the moral and ethical implications of taking the law into one's own hands.
Is 'Murder on the Orient Express' based on a true story?
While the novel itself is a work of fiction, Agatha Christie was inspired by true events, including the Lindbergh kidnapping case and her own travels on the Orient Express.