A Pocket Full of Rye

I have been reading all of Christie's mysteries chronologically, so at this point I am over 40 books in. It's a lot of the same and I question my decision to do this sometimes but I am too far in to go back now. I feel like an addict. But books like this one keep me going to the next.

I'm going to be honest–the other “nursery rhyme” mysteries I've read of hers haven't been her best. This one surprised me. It's the best Marple I've read so far. I think I have narrowed it down to the structure in which it is told. The outline of it feels almost flawless. But not only does she get the plot right, we also get a chance to empathize with the characters, particularly Miss Marple. Sometimes Christie can do more telling than showing (if you remember learning about that in writing class) but not with this one. The ending leaves you feeling particularly triumphant alongside Miss Marple.

Add this one to your list!