This retelling of Agatha Christie’s The Mysterious Affair at Styles is the first in a series of interactive picture book mysteries for children.

Silver, Galaxy of Imagination, Big Bang Notable Book List 2025

“Younger readers will adore the vivid illustrations and entertaining activities; older readers will be able to absorb the entertaining story while compiling clues….It may be a murder mystery, but it’s a supremely cozy and stylish one, and an ideal introduction to the amazing Poirot.”—Booklist

The Mysterious Affair at Styles is Agatha Christie’s first detective novel (a cozy mystery—no violence or gore), and where she introduces her fictional detective Hercule Poirot. The story, set in England during World War I, is a true who-done-it full of mysterious characters and teasing clues. Monson’s retelling of the original book captures the plot and distills it in a way that is fun for children, gently ushering them into the literary world of Christie’s mysteries. Along with the story, there are activities, games, and puzzles throughout to help with children’s engagement, and might just foster a few budding detectives.

There is also a glossary of terms and French words.