Can you recommend some of the best Poirot short stories?

Definitely 'The Jewel Robbery at the Grand Metropolitan'. It has a simple yet engaging plot. Poirot's interactions with the other characters are quite interesting, and it gives a good taste of how he approaches a case. You can easily follow along and start to understand how his mind works.

One of the best is 'The Adventure of the Cheap Flat'. It shows Poirot's brilliant deductive skills as he uncovers the mystery behind a seemingly ordinary flat with a very low rent. The plot twists and turns, keeping the reader on edge.

Another excellent short story is 'The Red Signal'. In this story, Poirot uses his psychological insights along with his detective skills. The atmosphere is rather tense as Poirot tries to prevent a potential crime based on some strange premonitions and signs.

You can start by looking at collections that are highly rated. For example, 'The Complete Poirot Short Stories' is a good place to begin. It compiles all of Agatha Christie's Poirot short stories in one volume.

Sure. 'Murder on the Orient Express' is a classic. The confined setting of the train and the numerous suspects with their own secrets make it a thrilling read.

Another good option for beginners is 'Death on the Nile'. It has a clear - cut mystery set in an interesting location. You can easily get into the story and start to understand Poirot's methods of deduction as he investigates the murder on the boat. There are a lot of suspects and clues to keep you engaged throughout the book.

The mystery element. Each short story has a well - crafted mystery. For example, in 'The Submarine Plans', there are multiple suspects and red herrings. The plot keeps you guessing until Poirot reveals the truth. Also, the settings in which the mysteries occur, whether it's a posh hotel or a small village, add to the charm. The contrast between Poirot's foreign nature and the often very English settings creates an interesting dynamic.

There's Captain Hastings. He is Poirot's friend and often assists him in his investigations. Hastings is a bit of a bumbling but loyal character. Another is Inspector Japp, a police inspector who sometimes works with Poirot. He represents the more traditional police approach to solving crimes.

Well, the number of Poirot short stories can be a bit tricky to pin down precisely. It depends on which editions and compilations you consider. Generally, there are a significant number of them that have delighted mystery lovers over the years.

Sure. One of the great short stories might be 'Young Goodman Brown'. It's a thought - provoking tale that delves into themes of faith, sin, and the human psyche. The story follows Goodman Brown as he takes a journey into the forest at night and has some rather disturbing encounters that make him question the goodness of those around him and his own faith.