The world’s most famous detective may very well be Sherlock Holmes. But there are many more literary sleuths that could give him a run for his money.
Click start to play today’s Word Search, where you can find some of them – from ‘Miss Marple’ to ‘Cadfael’.
In some of the most gripping novels, when you’re faced with the quintessential question – ‘whodunit?’ – there’s likely a crime-solving detective about to make an appearance, with his/her unique perspective on the game that’s afoot. Such characters have become beloved and iconic representatives of the mystery genre. Here are a few from our Word Search today, that are worth noting:
1. Miss Marple
English writer Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple appears to be the stereotypical picture of a ‘little old lady’ – petite, genteel and as reassuringly traditional as the fruitcakes you’d expect her to bake. But take a peek behind this façade and you’ll find a shrewd sleuth, with a memory to rival that of Inspector Morse (from British author Colin Dexter’s books), and deductions that could easily match Holmes’. While her strategy is often non-threatening, even a little anticlimactic to some critics, she unfailingly uncovers the truth in the end.
2. Sam Spade
A boiler hat, a trenchcoat and old-school ruggedness – if that’s what your imagination conjures when you think of a private detective, then you’re likely thinking of Sam Spade from American author Dashiell Hammett’s The Maltese Falcon. This iconic character’s less savoury traits are offset by rugged, masculine charm. Hammett himself said Spade is a detective that people on the police force would love to embody – he’s complicated, silent, unflinching, and gets his way every time.
3. Hercule Poirot
Another Christie creation, Poirot is similar to Holmes in that he has an almost egotistical belief in his own abilities. He’s a Fracophone Belgian with lots of little quirks, like a delicate constitution, prim dress sense, and finicky nature, that make him seem quite old-fashioned. The ageing bachelor’s waxed moustache and brilliantined hair are iconic parts of his look – and he has appeared in numerous novels, including some of Christie’s best-loved works, such as Murder on the Orient Express and Death on the Nile.
4. Feluda
An Indian-Bengali detective created by Indian filmmaker Satyajit Ray, Feluda first appeared in a children’s magazine and then went on to star in a series of novels, short stories, and then film adaptations. He’s a tall, lean and athletic detective who’s always on the hunt for a challenging case. Feluda is often assisted by his young cousin, Tapesh, who also serves as his chronicler and right-hand man, reminiscent of the relationship between Holmes and Dr Watson. Throughout their adventures, the duo visit all parts of India, from Chennai to Kashmir, and also several foreign locations, like London and Hong Kong.
Have you encountered any of these detectives in novels you’ve read? Play today’s Word Search and tell us at games@gulfnews.com.
