And Then There Were None

The nursery rhyme is central to the novel's plot and used to torment the characters. How does Christie's use of this childhood rhyme create an unsettling, ominous tone?

Discuss the significance of Wargrave's role as judge, jury and executioner on the island. Is his rationale for murdering the others justifiable?

Each of the ten people had contributed to a death and escaped justice. Which of their alleged crimes did you find most upsetting or unforgivable? Did you feel sympathy for any characters based on the specifics of their wrongdoings?

Many of the crimes could not be prosecuted. What commentary do you think Christie was making about the criminal justice system?

How does the isolation of the island setting contribute to the increasing paranoia and suspicion of the characters?

Christie makes use of dramatic irony by revealing information to the reader that the characters don't know. How does this ratchet up the suspense and dread throughout the novel?

Discuss the ending and your thoughts on the reveal of the killers' identities and methods. Were you surprised by the solutions? Did they satisfy you or leave you with unanswered questions?

Analyze how Christie uses red herrings and plot twists to misdirect the reader. Which most effectively led you astray?

And Then There Were None was published in 1939 but remains hugely popular today. What makes this mystery so enduring over 80 years later? What impact has it had on the mystery genre?