Exeter University Club - Exeter Branch talk: Agatha Christie, Literary Daughter of Devon by John Risdon

'Agatha Christie, Literary Daughter of Devon' by John Risdon

"The subject is very much to do with the woman herself, her upbringing, her life and what made her tick.”

Agatha Mary Clarissa Miller was born in Torquay.  Her father, Frederick, was an outgoing American with an independent income.  Her mother, Clara, was rather shy and Agatha resembled her greatly in personality.

“Although Agatha had amused herself as a child, acting out stories and make believe, her writing career really began after her sister Madge challenged her to write a novel. It took several years to get her first book  (The Mysterious Affair at Styles) published - with the publisher suggesting an alternative final chapter - but the reviews were kind and the murder by poison so well described that Agatha received the unprecedented honour of a review in the Pharmaceutical Journal!”

John Risdons life has been spent woven around education, publishing, tourism and heritage. He has worked with people in Devon from many different backgrounds and with many diverse skills. Today he is privileged to promote South Devon's diverse heritage through guided walking, lecturing and writing.

The Exeter University Club is a social organisation with branches across the country aiming to bring alumni together. To find out more see our webpage

The Exeter Branch are always looking for new members so why not go along to the talk and find out more?

You may also join the branch for lunch, (new attendees, members and partners are always welcome to the Branch activities), at the Cowick Barton from 12 noon, or attend just the talk from 2pm.

Meet at Cowick Barton, Exeter for lunch from 12 noon onwards followed by the talk at 2pm.
Contact Ian Thomson on 01626 867363 by Sunday 13th January 2013 to book your lunch and the talk