Five things to know about Ordeal by Innocence
In anticipation of BBC One's three part adaptation of Ordeal by Innocence, here are five facts you might not already know about the original story. To learn more about the novel, plus the life and work of one of Britain's most famous novelists, visit the Home of Agatha Christie.
The first episode airs on BBC One, Sunday 1st April at 9pm or you can catch up soon afterwards on BBC iPlayer.
1. The novel signalled a departure in style for Agatha Christie
A psychological endeavour on Agatha Christie’s part, this story signifies a shift in style from some of her earlier works, and focuses largely on conversation, memory and perception, as each sibling suspects each other of the murder of their adoptive mother.
2. It was one of Christie's favourites of her own novels
In her autobiography, Agatha Christie described Ordeal by Innocence as one of her books that satisfies her the most.
3. Ordeal by Innocence was not its original name
The book was originally going to be called The Innocent but was later changed its more complex title.
4. Christie did her (legal) homework
There is a letter in the Hughes Massie archive (at Exeter University) from Christie to her agent, requesting that he ask for legal advice on what would happen should Person A’s alibi appear a year after Person A had been found guilty and died in prison.
5. The book was dedicated to publisher Billy Collins
"To Billy Collins with affection and gratitude” was his dedication.
It was Billy who had convinced Christie to leave her one-sided deal with the Bodley Head, the publishers of her first six books, and to switch to William Collins Sons & Co in 1926. Now known as HarperCollins, they remain Agatha Christie's UK and US publishers.
