Have Your Say

New Christie Website

Welcome to the new Christie website!  We hope that you like the new site - please let us know your thoughts!

Constructive Comments

Moderator1 14 Oct 08 at 4:04 p.m. GMT

We are working very hard to improve the whole site and it will take some time before we get to where we'd like to be.  To help us please post what you'd like to see, and what you think doesn't work - and not just in the chatsite please.

We don't promise it will all happen but we will read all your comments.

Thanks

Login or register to add posts and reply

147 replies

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Judy45432 26 Aug 11 at 5:43 p.m. GMT

Hi. 

1.  I always select Joan Hickson (on top) as my favorite Miss Marple.  It always changes back to Julia McKenzie.  At least when people sign in, their preferences should be permanently featured, unless changes are requested by the person.  Please allow me to put Joan Hickson as my personal Miss Marple choice.  New or old, there is  none better.

2.  Please have a more prominent and easy to find HELP area on the website, like the information booth at a train station.

Thank you.

Judy (Judy45432)

Tommy_A_Jones 23 May 11 at 5 p.m. GMT

Is it me or is there a lot of Spam on lots of Threads? There seems to be a lot of Gobbledygook on some threads?

go_leafs_nation 31 Jan 11 at 1:16 p.m. GMT

Might I suggest considering some security features of some sort to try and discourage the spambots from attacking? The seemingly neverending river of spam is one of the reasons I rarely post here of late. It's incredibly annoying.

Tommy_A_Jones 18 Jan 11 at 4:44 p.m. GMT

I would like a quick way of getting to the last post with Quizzes like Guess The ? Tou can get straight to the end with some topics but not with some.

shana 18 Jan 11 at 4:36 p.m. GMT

i would like a quick way to check whether someone has reacted to a comment/post i made. Also there are other websites in different languages, where sections of this "officila" website have been copied. Is that ok to do?

Bunch_Marple 11 Jan 11 at 3:09 p.m. GMT

Hey, I just love the site, really happy to have found it! Perhaps a small improvement would be the option to stay logged in or remembered? :)

Pomodoro 30 Dec 10 at 7:59 p.m. GMT

Maybe one of those logic games (this person on that floor, with that weapon), maybe themed with certain AC novels, but with a spoiler warning.  Keep the dirty words ban. 

A_N_Omynous 29 Dec 10 at 5:39 p.m. GMT

I hope it is the former also. I like TheButlerDidIt's idea for Q&A sessions.

Tommy_A_Jones 29 Dec 10 at 3:28 p.m. GMT

Perhaps some people don't have the time to go on as much as others, or perhaps they aren't as avid fans as some of us, I hope it is the Former.

A_N_Omynous 28 Dec 10 at 7:13 p.m. GMT

I am new to the AC website, but I think that it would be helpful if you could specify which parts of your comment were spoilers, and also specify which book the spoiler is from, before the spoiler warning so if you have read the book you can look under the spoiler warning safely.  

Lone_Wolf

Am I the only one who finds it strange that only a handful of people here regularly discuss things, while the website has hundrends of members?

I also find that strange but I think it is sometimes hard to join a discussion when sometimes threads seem abandoned and it is often nice just to read others comments before venturing into the discussion.

Lone_Wolf 27 Dec 10 at 6:03 a.m. GMT

Still, the difference here is much higher then on most other boards I'm visiting. I partially blame Christie Wall - some questions there would be better of as threads in their own right. 

GKCfan 26 Dec 10 at 7:49 p.m. GMT

I notice that too, but that's the case on most message boards.  Not every reader wants to write something...

Lone_Wolf 26 Dec 10 at 10:59 a.m. GMT

Am I the only one who finds it strange that only a handful of people here regularly discuss things, while the website has hundrends of members?

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Oct 10 at 3:24 p.m. GMT

What happened to the site On Friday?, Couldn't get on all weekend

knottyceltic 21 Oct 10 at 5:33 p.m. GMT

Good idea!  (it's called a CAPTCHA)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CAPTCHA

Thankfully, except for the odd 'barrage' there is very little spamming here.  :o)

HeiseiHolmes 21 Oct 10 at 5:03 p.m. GMT

Regarding the recent spams, I think it would be a good idea if you had to fill in those squiggly letter puzzle things when you're making an account.

TheButlerDidIT 19 Oct 10 at 12:14 p.m. GMT

I think there should be a few question and answer sessions where members could put their questions forward to the producer of Poirot or Marple for example.

Lone_Wolf 17 Oct 10 at 7:46 a.m. GMT

Will the "Win every Christie novel" competition thread be deleted after the competition ends? Because that forum really doesn't need a thread of 1000-something "c) hercule poirot" posts.

Tommy_A_Jones 03 Oct 10 at 2:47 p.m. GMT

I would say so but I would also include Race, Spence and perhaps Battle but if Battle was a sidekick Colin would be so perhaps not Battle (With a Heavy Heart as I like him) but maybe Craddock should be included.

In the Bundle/Battle Books Which one is the sidekick

knottyceltic 03 Oct 10 at 1:46 a.m. GMT

Should Mrs. Oliver be listed in the "Sidekick" section? 

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Sep 10 at 2:37 p.m. GMT

That is a good idea. I did wonder if the powers that be turned of the site to encourage us to watch thye AC Adaptations on ITV3! I didn't manage to watch a whole thing.

xrysoula 22 Sep 10 at 7:38 a.m. GMT

We are all wondering the same, Tommy - no answer yet, though!

A little suggestion to the moderators, if I may: in the stories that are put up for discussion, please add a paragraph with the names of all characters involved. It 's very annoying to stop writing the post every now and then in order to look them up - plus, some of us who have read most of the novels translated in our native language, have to guess how those names are spelled in English!

Tommy_A_Jones 20 Sep 10 at 12:29 p.m. GMT

What happened to the site over the weekend? It went down.

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Sep 10 at 4:52 p.m. GMT

That makes sense as I think The selection of stories entitled The Listerdale Mystewry is also called Philomel Cottage And Other Stories but I am pleased someone thinks my idea isn't too silly, It occurred to me the other day when I was up-dating which books and stories I have read and it occurred to me I am sure which books I have read but don't make a mental noterof the short stories so perhaps didn't tick some I have read, putting underneath which book thery are in wouldn't help either if in some collections they are in one book title and in others another book title.

HeiseiHolmes 10 Sep 10 at 10:44 p.m. GMT

Tommy_A_Jones

In the bit where you tick books and stories you have read why can you tick short stories individually? surely if you have read one of the stories in a book like for instance The Thirteen Problems  you would read them all, it would take up less room and be more sensible if you just had to tick the book.

That makes a lot of sense, but if some people read a short story as part of another book (for example, I first read 'The Harlequin Tea Set' in a selection of other authors' crime stories) then it could confuse them a little. Plus, I think in some countries, the stories in certain books are different.

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Sep 10 at 4:22 p.m. GMT

In the bit where you tick books and stories you have read why can you tick short stories individually? surely if you have read one of the stories in a book like for instance The Thirteen Problems  you would read them all, it would take up less room and be more sensible if you just had to tick the book.

Lone_Wolf 31 May 10 at 6:08 p.m. GMT

We should be able to spoiler only parts of our posts, or at least specify what books we're spoilering. Without these features, the ability to place stuff in spoilers is rather awkard.

go_leafs_nation 28 May 10 at 10:52 a.m. GMT

Fascinating.

According to the timeline, the film The Passing of Mr. Quin was released in 1828.

Didn't know they had films and psychics at the time.

Onbviously, it's a silly error that needs to be corrected.

MissQuin 26 May 10 at 2:31 p.m. GMT

Whilst browsing a few days ago looking for that murder mystery clue!) there's a section called I'm a jorunalist. The Agatha Chrisite great detetive contains infomation that says Parker Pyne and his enigmatic friend, Harley Quin! This must surely should be Mr Satterwaite?

MissQuin 15 May 10 at 11:53 a.m. GMT

I'd like to see a special part of the forum, where people can upload their short stories. At the moment  theres a word limit, which does make is difficult to post long stories.  HeiseiHolmes, the_butler_did_it and myself have submitted stories and Go leafs and Harley Barley are working on theres.

A special page like on the blog spot would be really great.

HeiseiHolmes 20 Apr 10 at 12:05 p.m. GMT

Also, the link "Report abuse or spoilers" has now changed to "Report abuse or spoilergg". It's not very attractive to look at.

HeiseiHolmes 29 Mar 10 at 5:24 p.m. GMT

I think that in the reading lists, the short stories should have a thing saying what compilation(s) they were in, so we can remember easily...

Bundle_ 26 Mar 10 at 5:26 p.m. GMT

I second that.

MissQuin 26 Mar 10 at 5:25 p.m. GMT

I'd like a photo gallery of actors who have appeared in the well known adaptations. I put this post under another thread by mistake.

I spend time on imdb searching for people I recognise, when it would be nice to have one of here. Also extra info on episodes for fans, like locations, interview quotes, trivia.

TheButlerDidIT 22 Mar 10 at 12:46 p.m. GMT

I would like Private Messages and or a chatroom format so fans can talk directly with each other.

HeiseiHolmes 21 Mar 10 at 11:12 a.m. GMT

Yesterday, I couldn't log in for a while. I kept trying, and a message came up, saying "You must have cookies enabled to access this site!". I checked, and I did have them activated. Then I left the page, went to it again, and I was logged in already. It was more than a little confusing...

Lone_Wolf 20 Mar 10 at 11:57 a.m. GMT

When your mouse is placed on the area with Christie and the actors who play her characters, the mouse wheel doesn't scroll. It's annoying.

We should be able to spoiler parts of our posts, like in vBulletin. Suppose I want to write something like:

"Christie often took the stance that idealism can lead to nothing good. Like, in the novel "Murder by Idealism", Dr. Fiilliippuffenstein, a very idealistic man, turns out to be the murderer".

The point about Christie being against idealism doesn't need to be spoilered, but the example needs to. With the system we have now, I have to double-post to achieve what I want.

Also, the forums seem to be less and less active recently for some reason. Hope it's a temporary activity lull.

Smutty_Thomas1941 08 Oct 09 at 10:58 a.m. GMT

Hello,

I'm reasonably new to the site. I like what you've done, so far.

I'm dipping in now and again, to see what sections you have.

I was wondering about the possibility of a section about Christie music.

E.g. Music used in films. Television and popular songs around/throughout Christie's life. If she had any favourites?

They needn't be downloads. A list of titles, Artists. Release date.

Being a bit of a music lover and developing a taste for that era. I thought it might be useful to others...

ChristieCommuter 25 Sep 09 at 1:08 p.m. GMT

3rdGirl

These posts just come and go for no apparent reason. The website seems a biy 'sticky'. Whys is this now a 'Hot Post' when the last comment was over a month ago?? Very weird.

Hi 3rdGirl - this is because it's been such a popular post - that's the difference between hot posts and recent posts, I guess. Hope that clears this up!

3rdGirl 25 Sep 09 at 5:37 a.m. GMT

These posts just come and go for no apparent reason. The website seems a biy 'sticky'. Whys is this now a 'Hot Post' when the last comment was over a month ago?? Very weird.

LittleMo 30 Aug 09 at 9:02 p.m. GMT

Not intuitive or easy to use

I have been reading this site off and on for about 6 weeks now.

The news items are good.,

The bookclub is quite frustrating. I cant' always navigate cleanly into it. Then once in its not easy to get a list of posts, or see them all.

Its not clear what is Augusts book and at the end of the month we haven't been able to discuss it nor start on September's book.

Please Please improve this part of the site as its the best feature and keeps me coming back and feeling involved.

johnwaynefreak 30 Aug 09 at 4:41 p.m. GMT

I would like to see a 'Search' function specific to the forum only; the kind that allows you to choose whether to include posts or only thread titles, stopping duplicate threads from being started (save trawling through ten pages of old threads to check).

3rdGirl 28 Aug 09 at 7:35 a.m. GMT

I think the Book Club section needs a bit of work as it seems that the threads can only be started by the moderators. I agree with what Boomcoach said earlier about an intro to the book and maybe a few question, or maybe a few threads started with different questions and angles. Such as characters, the mystery, location, how the sleuth worked etc etc.

Also maybe a list of the next few months books for those of us that have to travel to a library to get them would be lovely. :-)

Everything else seems great, but posting onto the wrong thread is annoying, i think we've all done it!

Bundle_ 27 Aug 09 at 7:16 p.m. GMT

I agree w/ Lone Wolf, it would be nice if we could edit and also delete (before someone responds ) our posts when we start a topic.

Thank you for considering our suggestions, Moderators!

Lone_Wolf 24 Aug 09 at 5:18 p.m. GMT

We can't edit the first post of the threads started by us. Overall, these small annoyances I described make using that forum a not rewarding user experience right now. For example, I've mistakenly posted my review of "the Pale Horse" in the Poirot forum, and I can't nor edit it with new thoughts coming to my head, nor delete it to put it in place where it should belong. Overall, when using the fora, I find myself yearning for the simplicity of vBulletin. I hope that will change. Ah, the joys of Hope and Change...

Lone_Wolf 22 Aug 09 at 5:49 p.m. GMT

• The smilies and the whole text markup 
• don't work for me.
EDIT: strange, the bold text and the list works, but the italics and the smilies don't. Even not after I add the italics tag myself. And we can't edit our opening posts of a thread. BTW, why does the interface persists on calling forum threads "forum posts"?

Lone_Wolf 20 Aug 09 at 7:56 p.m. GMT

The italics don't seem to always work.

Also, when you're adding a reply, you're writing in a nice box with all the features. But if you re-edit it, you're struck with ugly raw code.

Jemma 20 Aug 09 at 2:56 p.m. GMT

We're just in the process of upgrading the site and you will shortly be able to view who is online.

Lone_Wolf 20 Aug 09 at 1:49 p.m. GMT

Can we see who's online at the moment?

AndThenThereWasTim 30 Jun 09 at 7:43 p.m. GMT

What is the little Box with the "21" in it?

Boomcoach 18 Jun 09 at 11:42 a.m. GMT

2 things, neither major:

• When you start a thread with a spoiler, the first post does not get hidden.  I have been putting in a "semi-post", then putting what I want to say in the second post to get around this.
• In the Book Club section (which is a great concept!) I think it would be good to have the publication date listed with the introduction to the new month's book, just to help get a feel for the time period.

missandrea 16 Jun 09 at 10:31 a.m. GMT

i really like this website. i think it would be really nice to have some tips and facts about stuff and her wrtings. i like facts. heheh

DinddaPoirotLover 18 May 09 at 2:26 p.m. GMT

As a young person, I think some of these comments are simply untrue about us being 'immature' or as if we can't cope with these stories which are. Why would we be on the site?

susandiane 28 Feb 09 at 11:18 a.m. GMT

 I DO like the spoiler hiders though. It's nice to not have to "scroll real fast"  past a *SPOILER ALERT* More fan sites need that feature! So far that's my favorite feature of this site. Here it's not so important to me (I've read all AC's books) but some places, like movie sites or other author sites... UGH!

 What blows my mind is, that there are people on here who HAVEN'T read all AC's books! Wow, she's STILL pulling them in, how kewl is that?

Tommy_A_Jones 27 Feb 09 at 3:04 p.m. GMT

Yes It's great to be able to read them now, things make sense now and you know wether to agree or dissagree with people more.

susandiane 27 Feb 09 at 11:48 a.m. GMT

Thank you, it seems to be fixed. YAY, I can read the spoilers

susandiane 23 Feb 09 at 10:12 a.m. GMT

I need help. I can't seem to read the posts that are hidden because of spoilers. Nothing is coming up. Is it my 'puter or is it a glitch on the site right now? And wouldn't you know it, one of my posts is stuck in that "netherland"

detectivepauljohn 13 Feb 09 at 10:47 a.m. GMT

Hi Jemma,

But I cannot edit my posts. There is a URL which is "Agatha Christie administration site" which says I need to log-in but it says the password or username is invalid but I tried it many times and I typed the password and the username very carefully but I really can't. Can you please solve this problem?

Jemma 10 Feb 09 at 3:22 p.m. GMT

Hi Detective Paul John,

I'm sorry but we felt that if people could delete their posts, it would interrupt the flow of conversation.  However, users have the ability to edit the posts they make so you can change them if you would like.  If there is something that you strongly feel you would like removed, please let me know and we can consider deleting it for you.

detectivepauljohn 10 Feb 09 at 7:05 a.m. GMT

Jemma, please I hope we can delete posts.

Lone_Wolf 07 Feb 09 at 6:57 p.m. GMT

It'd be great if we'd be able to know is a particular member currently online or not.

detectivepauljohn 24 Jan 09 at 11:17 a.m. GMT

In Death On the Nile profile book(well, type death on the nile on the search button, click death on the nile). The Linnette should be Linnet, right?

VRossa 19 Jan 09 at 9:10 a.m. GMT

I am new to this site so I can't compare it - but I just wanted to say I am so glad to have found a site that actually discusses Agatha Christie's novels and not just lists their favourite book or character. Keep up the great work - I am looking forward to seeing the other features that have already been flagged.

Madeleinn 19 Jan 09 at 3:57 a.m. GMT

for me this place is great ... and that is not often visited the school because it entertains me XD! perhaps online games more fun ... and would be great to delete messages. On the subject of avatars, are all very nice ... all different books, and I do not think we should allow each user to make your own avatar that will not be linked to AC kisses!

Tommy_A_Jones 17 Jan 09 at 4:46 p.m. GMT

Thanks Jemma, I forgot to say after my post about pictures by usernames I found out how to change the picture by my username, It was a thumb print now it is an Aeroplane, I chose that because one of my favourite books is Death In The Clouds, The spoiler situation was so much easier before the site changed, then if people had something to say which contained a spoiler the word spoiler was in Capitals and then you knew not to read further if you had not read the post, now if someone has something to say I want to comment on I can't because I don't know if I want to comment because I can't read the post, Please someone explain if I am wrong.

Holly 16 Jan 09 at 8:15 a.m. GMT

I think I know what you mean. I have found that if you click on 'Recent Posts', you are shown part of the most recent post in a topic, even if that post is one that has been marked as a spoiler. So it is possible to inadvertently read part of a spoiler, because spoilers aren't concealed in all views.

Jemma 15 Jan 09 at 4:54 p.m. GMT

WINNEBAGO1901

I do like the fact that there is a picture of Joan Hickson and I also like the pictures by the user names but wonder if I can choose one for myself and if so how

Hi Winnebago,

At the moment it isn't possible but if people would like to send us images that they have created, provided there are no copyright restrictions, we would be happy to choose the best one and add it as an avatar choice.  It would be open to everyone though as the technology isn't available to have individual ones for all users.

Jemma 12 Jan 09 at 5:16 p.m. GMT

Thanks for letting us know.  We are in the process of fixing the bug for the story Death on the Nile.

All fans can now also see Suggested Reading Lists in the Stories section as well as our thoughts on the Christie Must reads.

detectivepauljohn 10 Jan 09 at 2:33 a.m. GMT

whenever I go to the Death on the Nile book profile(type Death on the nile at the search button above then click Death On the Nile) it says error 404. Please find a way

Tommy_A_Jones 08 Jan 09 at 3:26 p.m. GMT

Sorry if I offended you Lone Wolf although I don't see the difference myself but if the difference is important to you I am sorry!

Lone_Wolf 07 Jan 09 at 3:13 p.m. GMT

Thanks, Jemma.

Jemma 07 Jan 09 at 1:53 p.m. GMT

Users already have the ability to change their username and you can add capitals.  Click on My Account Summary at the top of the page when you are logged in.  Then click on Manage Account in the left hand side navigation.  You will then be able to change your username to include capitals.

Lone_Wolf 07 Jan 09 at 1:33 p.m. GMT

I am not lone wolf, I am Lone Wolf! Stop making my name generic lowercase-only nonsense just because the stupid name changing routine offensively decided that capital letters are apparently too good for my name! 

Jemma 07 Jan 09 at 1:20 p.m. GMT

We have added in a Miscellaneous Section to 'Have Your Say' as requested and will be redesigning the forum with other improvements.  Those with in-depth knowledge of Christie's work will be pleased to know that we will be including a new section - a library for the books - where you can discuss and review each story in detail.  Those who haven't read them should be aware that this section will contain unhidden spoilers.  We plan on making these changes as soon as possible and thank you all for your patience.

Tommy_A_Jones 07 Jan 09 at 12:44 p.m. GMT

I agree with lone wolf, there might be parts of the post that people want to read.

Lone_Wolf 07 Jan 09 at 10:46 a.m. GMT

Also it'd be cool if there was a way to put only a part of your post in "spoiler" tags.

Miss_Terrie 07 Jan 09 at 8:09 a.m. GMT

I agree with SSigerson and Marc Anton, that there should be restrictions on where children can post having seen how theyve abused on the 'blog'.

Tommy_A_Jones 06 Jan 09 at 1:24 p.m. GMT

I think what would be a reallyb good Idea is on the Have your Say page a Columb for the title of Threads and a Columb for the last Post of each thread, I think this would look better and be more understandable, I hope this makes sence, I am slowly getting used to the site now but perhaps these changes would help people other than me.

Lone_Wolf 04 Jan 09 at 7:24 p.m. GMT

In "The Latest Post" column on the Have Your Say page, the poster mentoined is not the poster who made the latest post, but the poster who started the thread in which the latest post was made, which is quite suboptimal.

Tommy_A_Jones 02 Jan 09 at 3:35 p.m. GMT

I agree with S Siegerson, I would like to see a For The Very Knowlegeable section for people who have read a book but wants to discuss it without ruining it for people who haven't read it, I miss that and although I think you can put spoilers in and still hide them from people who don't want them spoiled I can't work out how to do this. I also agree with marc and would like a Miscellaneous section and a section for Battle. I do like the fact that there is a picture of Joan Hickson and I also like the pictures by the user names but wonder if I can choose one for myself and if so how? and lastly I would like to applaud the introduction of the Tommy and Tuppence section.

go_leafs_nation 02 Jan 09 at 4:49 a.m. GMT

I used to be able to edit my posts fine, but now, for some reason, I can't. Also, as soon as I log on, I can't view any post with spoiler warnings on it.

metahead 23 Dec 08 at 8:16 p.m. GMT

The new site is awesome! Some folks tend to get a bit testy this time of year.

MERRY NOEL!!!

Metahead

inspectorg 23 Dec 08 at 8:57 a.m. GMT

I think that the little bookmarks should be brought back.

marmalade_sunrise 11 Dec 08 at 7:24 a.m. GMT

Yeah, I think the "no dirty words" rule is good here. Why would it be necessary to swear in an Agatha Christie forum, anyway? It isn't necessary.

Jemma 09 Dec 08 at 12:19 p.m. GMT

Hi Detective Paul John,

Thanks for the post.  I'm sorry you have been having some problems. 

Unfortunately we are unable to look into this without learning a little more.  If you are still having problems, please email us at corporate@chorion.co.uk where we can ask a few more questions and fix the problem for you.

detectivepauljohn 01 Dec 08 at 8:19 a.m. GMT

Jemma

Hello. Can you please help me? I can't edit my posts. I clicked the "re-edit" the post but there was another page of this site and asks me to log-in it's called "Agatha Christie Administration Site". So I did but it said the password or username is invalid. So I tried many times, carefully typing the username or password but it said it is still invalid so I can't edit my posts. Please help me. I wanna edit it.

detectivepauljohn 01 Dec 08 at 8:18 a.m. GMT

Jemma

Hello. Can you please help me? I can't edit my posts. I clicked the "re-edit" the post but there was another page of this site and asks me to log-in it's called "Agatha Christie Administration Site". So I did but it said the password or username is invalid. So I tried many times, carefully typing the username or password but it said it is still invalid so I can't edit my posts. Please help me. I wanna edit it.

detectivepauljohn 23 Nov 08 at 10:26 a.m. GMT

thanks

Mr_Oliver_Lodge 22 Nov 08 at 12:39 p.m. GMT

I noticed that Superintendant Battle isn't listed under detectives or sidekicks. I would like it if he were, because then I could add him as my favorite detective.

hobbit 21 Nov 08 at 6:06 p.m. GMT

So...what's the difference between the old 'For the Knowledgeable' folder and your new suggestion of a 'Reader be Warned' folder? If you 'gave this some thought' I assume there's a significant distinction.

S_Sigerson 21 Nov 08 at 5:41 p.m. GMT

I gave this some thought, the "For the Knowledgeable" folder could be more of a "Reader be Warned". In other words, you don't have to use the spoiler option in this folder. You can freely discuss any book or film without fear of revealing too much information because the people who view and post under this Folder understand people are not going to use the spoiler option. Those people who like the spoiler option (which is useful and should be kept) can post in the other folders where you are expected to use the spoiler option.

Jemma 21 Nov 08 at 5:07 p.m. GMT

We have many other plans in store for agathachristie.com and welcome your comments.  It is important to us that the site and forum reflects what you would like as a community.  Unfortunately we aren't in a position to implement every request we receive but we are doing our best to make the site a fun and informative place to be.

I will of course keep you posted on our progress.  In the meantime, I do hope you continue to enjoy the site.  If you have any questions about the site or problems using it, please feel free to ask me and I will do my best to help.

Jemma 21 Nov 08 at 4:48 p.m. GMT

More Articles

We plan on adding more content to the site.  There will be more articles on Christie herself, the stories, as well as the films that have been made.  In the meantime you may wish to check out the blog.  We have invited some Christie experts to share their views on her work.  Please feel free to ask them questions on their essays.

Jemma 21 Nov 08 at 4:45 p.m. GMT

Change Email Address

At the moment fans are not able to change their email addresses once they have registered to the site.  We are working on fixing this problem.  It is a priority for us and we hope to have it implemented soon.

Jemma 21 Nov 08 at 4:44 p.m. GMT

A Library of Books

In time we will be adding a section so that fans can list which of Christie's books they have read and a 'wishlist' of books.  This most likely will form a part of users profiles.

Jemma 21 Nov 08 at 4:42 p.m. GMT

Games

We were asked to include hints in the 'quotes' game that often appears in the forum.  This game has been devised by the users and the quotes aren't posted by us so unfortunately we aren't in a position to help.

We do hope to add new "official" games to the site though in due course and will keep you posted!

Jemma 21 Nov 08 at 4:38 p.m. GMT

Ratings

A number of users have asked that they be able to rate the books.  We intend to add this as part of the new phase of the website.  Again, we would ask for your patience whilst we implement this change.

Jemma 21 Nov 08 at 4:37 p.m. GMT

User Profiles

Many of you have asked that you be allowed to see short descriptions of other users of the site, to give a greater feeling of community.  We were very intrigued by the idea.  We need to look at what is possible here but we thought it rather fun.  It would obviously be up to the user whether their profile was made public.  It's important to us that you all feel comfortable using the site and we will implement this change with all due care and consideration.

Jemma 21 Nov 08 at 4:32 p.m. GMT

Quotes in Posts

When people quote other users in their posts, we will make sure that the quotes appear in bold as on the last site to make it easier for all users to follow the train of conversations.  We will attempt to implement this as soon as possible but please do be patient with us as it takes time for us to implement all the new changes.

S_Sigerson 21 Nov 08 at 4:31 p.m. GMT

Not a problem. Technology is not perfect. I am sure eventually you will work out all the bugs. Just have to be patient.

Jemma 21 Nov 08 at 4:26 p.m. GMT

The Forum

We appreciate all of your comments on the forum.  We do realise that it could be working better and plan to implement a number of your suggestions.  This will include the reintroduction of the light bulb against the most recent subjects.  We hope this will help you to navigate the forum with greater ease.

Jemma 21 Nov 08 at 4:20 p.m. GMT

On behalf of Agatha Christie Ltd, I wanted to thank you all for your thoughts and opinions on the site.  We are grateful for all your views.  We have made a number of decisions on the future of the site in response to these.  It is probably easiest if I make a number of posts addressing each one.

This list is not in any way exhaustive.  We have many plans for the site and look forward to sharing these with you as we continue to develop new elements.

hobbit 21 Nov 08 at 4:12 p.m. GMT

Have to agree with Mr Cooper, I'm afraid; some of the remarks about young people have really been quite nauseating. Then again I've worked with young people all my life as a teacher, so perhaps your rudeness is just down to ignorance...???

Anyway I hope we can all remain friends after this. As Marc Anton says, we're all here to discuss Christie - not to set up ageist pubs!

Hobbit

dale_cooper 21 Nov 08 at 4:01 p.m. GMT

You are singularly the most condescending and obnoxious man I have ever had the displeasure to cross swords with. The fact is it will soon become clear which posters are adults and which are minors from where they are posting. There are such things as viral abuse, internet hacking and paedophilia you know - they really are facts of life.

S_Sigerson 21 Nov 08 at 3:58 p.m. GMT

Age restrictions are a fact of life. There was a reason why when you are a kid you did not sit at the grown ups table, just like there was a reason why your parents did not invite you to dinner if they were dining with business associates or did not bring you along if they were going out for dinner on New Years Eve. Once again this is a pretty big website and can accommodate everyone. You would have a place for "Adults" or simply a folder (more practical). The rest of the wesbite would be for everyone and no one would know who is an adult or who is a young adult unless the person revealed their age. Except of course in the "adult" folder where you would know you are corresponding with adults. I do find "Little Kiddies Forum" condescending and frankly inaccurate. You say “little kiddies” and you think 4 years old who I don’t think read Agatha Christie. Let's not blow this out of proportion or misconstrue other people's comments or suggestions. Actually age is already built into the system. You have to check off the box if you are over 13 or something like that when you first register. Change it to 18 and create a special folder/section and set-up this area to only accept postings from people who fall into the over 18 criteria. I would think the system is sophisticated enough to do this and no one’s exact age would be made public.

dale_cooper 21 Nov 08 at 3:49 p.m. GMT

Quote: 'I have no intention to use profane or vulgar words, it is childish and uncivilised.'

You obviously did not read the thread very thoroughly, squatty! Also I'm sorry to dash your hopes, Mr Sigerson, (as an adult of superior intellect and maturity to us 'little kids' I'm sure you'll easily be able to detect the sarcasm with which I wrote that) but due to the Data Protection Act (moderator take note!!) the website will not be allowed to distinguish adults from minors in any way - least of all with a pub.

Also please don't give me this 'no offence' rubbish. How can saying that a young person is not mature enough to deal with the topics in AC's books be anything but offensive? Ageism is just as legitimate a discrimination as sexism, xenophobia, racism and homophobia, you know.

Moderator1 21 Nov 08 at 3:43 p.m. GMT

Many thanks for your comments on this subject – we understand and appreciate it’s a sensitive subject.

This site is for all Christie fans and it is inclusive. However, it does not tolerate bad language – which we define as that which the majority find offensive. Christie wrote intelligent, articulate stories without bad language and as fans and managers of her estate we don’t see why any forum posts should either. But as there will always be people who will push limits imposed, we need to rely on you to alert any abuse where you see it. (Unfortunately, technically it is impossible for us to block use of swear words etc – without blocking words such as Babcock use of which, we agree, should be allowed. For that reason we have removed the language filter from the new site.)

As you are aware we are introducing a number of improvements to the site over the next couple of months – next month we hope to be introducing polls – and it looks like one of the first may be whether there should be an Agatha Christie pub!

AndThenThereWasTim 21 Nov 08 at 12:33 a.m. GMT

I strongly agree with Dale.. "Dirty Language" should not be used it your young, old, mature, or inmature.. Dirty language is immature in of its self.. "For the Knowledgeable" was on the original forum but how could you sort out ages.. Not that I have.. but you can easliy lie about your age. Lets just say I am an adult and I have only read one AC book.. what makes me anymore "Knowledgeable" than any teen or tween. The dirty language ban is not just for young people but for everyone who is mature enough to realize that dirty language doen't make you any more mature. Also, "children" dont like to "be sat at the little kids table" as many people can relate to those tough Christmas's and Thanksgivings when the "children" had to sit at the little kids table.. People want to have civilized discussions away from age limits. Young adults do not little to be talked down to which is what you are suggesting. Also, we would have to make our ages public.. something that could prove dangerous. And trust me if you had a so called "adult forum" we might as well call the other the "Little Kiddies Forum"

And in Rebuttal to squatty.. When I said gay and lesbianism is touchy in California I didn't say it was offensive. This forum is suppose to be an escape from the constant news of Riots against and for Prop 8 and any other political arguments for that matter. Weather it has anything to do with AC or not please keep anything political or anything that could start a political debate to a bare minimum.

S_Sigerson 20 Nov 08 at 9:31 p.m. GMT

I think a folder "For the Knowledgeable" is a good idea for those who find the spoiler rule a bother. I am still standing behind my idea for a section/folder for adults. It's a big website (in cyber sort of way) and can accommodate everyone. And the more I think about the more I like “Agatha’s Pub” (moderator please note). It will be our own locale on the Internet.

Marc_Anton 20 Nov 08 at 9:06 p.m. GMT

Well, one more remark before I give this topic a rest and go back to what I like to do most: discuss books! It is not an age thing, I am just an old fogy who likes to talk about books with others who share that same passion. That's all. I find it a bit silly that you can not discuss crime fiction seriously without naming the murderer(s) and the motive. I am totally against this use of the Spoiler-button, it kills all the creative conversation. As I said, if you are afraid a book will be ruined for you, then stay out of the discussion.

By the way Squatty, yes it is impossible to open 'Spoiler-contributions' once you are logged in (another reason to get rid of them!). You need to open the Website twice, in one you log in, the other you just open but you will be able to read those Spoiler posts.

On the old Forum we had that 'For the Knowledgeable'-folder. Now wouldn't that be an option here? Contributors (OF ANY AGE!) can share their opinions with others without spoiling the fun for first-time-readers (and the other way round). Moderator, please?

squatty 20 Nov 08 at 8:23 p.m. GMT

Dale - I've read the whole thread back and nobody has said that only the young members of the forum would use vulgar language. The whole discussion, imo, has been about two completely different things: 1) How certain words are edited because they might be seen as "dirty". To use two examples "s p o o f" and "B a b c o c k" have both been rejected by the in-built editing function. 2) How individual members are offended by words that others would consider commonplace: lesbian being an example of this. I do feel the same as S Sigerson and Marc Anton, although I dont think it is an age thing for me. I have been cheesed off how some interesting discussions have been sabotaged or taken off track by members taking offense. There is a "report abuse" function. If members are upset, can they not report the matter and leave it to the mods to make a judgement

Marc_Anton 20 Nov 08 at 8:12 p.m. GMT

I am sorry when you are disappointed but I only spoke my mind. As S Sigerson wrote: "I just want to have conversations with my peers." I can only agree with that. It is not an age thing but it is about experience with reading. If you are 15 and you read all of Christie's work (several times) and you think you have some interesting and original points of view: all the better! Share them and we will have a great discussion! I simply can not discuss any book (Christie or not) with someone who just read the novel for the first time.

Call me a snob if you want, but I have set my standards a bit higher. I will avoid this tone in any other post when we are actually discussing books or film, but since this thread is about comment on the new website, I think we can express what we personally expect to find here and how the forum should run. I am sorry if you disagree with that. But no offence of course! And of course the site didn't turn sour, only in this topic, and there is nothing wrong with that, we will continue to discuss books in different folders elsewhere.

dale_cooper 20 Nov 08 at 8 p.m. GMT

As a young member of this forum may I say that I find the comments of S Sigerson and Marc Anton absolutely outrageous. To simply say that it's children who would use vulgar language is just as bad (in my opinion) as saying that vulgar language is only used my people of a certain race, gender of sexuality. How dare you stereotype all young people like that and request an 'adult section' free from children! It's totally offensive!!

I'm particularly disappointed in you, Marc Anton, with whom I've enjoyed many interesting discussions over the years. I feel like these opinions have turned the site rather sour now - for me at least.

I guess this is at least one less young person for you bigots to worry about.

Marc_Anton 20 Nov 08 at 7:59 p.m. GMT

This is not a subjective discussion. I seams to me that the people who never contributed anything meaningful or interesting are the ones who are getting upset about language when someone uses the word 'gay' or 'lesbian' in the context of a Christie novel or a film based on A.C.'s work. If you get into a stupor because of an expression you don't like, then stay out of the discussion or join the kids who read their first A.C. book: "Agatha is soooooooooo cooool!"

Personally I prefer to discuss any book with readers who are not only familiar with the novels but also have some biographical knowledge about the writer and the social and historical circumstances of the era when they were written. I find the use of spoilers pretty ridiculous: if you never read the book, then stay out of the conversation. There must be a folder somewhere for first-time readers. Perhaps a tip for the editor?

S_Sigerson 20 Nov 08 at 7:11 p.m. GMT

I applaud Agatha Christie Limited and Chorion for trying to get people to read in particular young people. While at the same time I feel they should provide a section on this site for the over 18 crowd so to speak. It's a reasonable request and perhaps it will even increase the number of people who come here on a regular basis.

S_Sigerson 20 Nov 08 at 7:05 p.m. GMT

Not too mention adultery (going off with the children's nanny), knocking one's husband or wife off for the money or so you can run off with said nanny or worse - the family chauffeur or the under gardener (a real faux pas). Personally I think crime fiction in general should be read by adults or young adults who have an understanding of the world. If someone is not mature enough to understand the situations and subject matter (including the naughty words) they should not be reading crime fiction.

squatty 20 Nov 08 at 6:43 p.m. GMT

On a different topic - am I doing something wrong here? When I am logged on, I cannot read any of the spoiler posts. However, if I visit as a guest without signing on, I can view every post. Is anyone else experiencing this?

squatty 20 Nov 08 at 6:34 p.m. GMT

Its becoming clear to me that the debate over "dirty words" is so subjective that we are going round in circles. To be told that the word "lesbian" is offensive in California and therefore shouldnt be used on the forum leaves me speachless. I have no problem with my opinions being challenged - I do have a problem with my language (which I take great care over) being challenged

Marc_Anton 20 Nov 08 at 5:26 p.m. GMT

Hear hear! I want a space on this website where I can discuss topics about Christie or any other form of crime literature with mature and well-read people in an adult way, without thinking if I might harm the kiddies or corrupting their innocent souls by using a term that might be too sensitive for them. After all, we discuss things like murder, blackmail and other criminal actions.

I do not like to be restricted by the editors of this website nor by contributors who are offended when they read a 'naughty word'. As S Singerson said: they are just words. I think most contributors of this site are sophisticated enough not to stoop to 'vulgar' language, but every word and expression is part of life, literature and society so there is no need to avoid certain terms (and I don't mean swear words) when they have to be used in an interesting discussion.

So yes, when I would have it my way, I would suggest a section for adults and one for the young readers. You don't need to be Victorian to have that wish, you can be Edwardian too. I know, I sound stuffy, but I had my best and most stimulating discussion with the 'stuffy people' on this Forum.

S_Sigerson 20 Nov 08 at 4:58 p.m. GMT

Profane or vulgar words are neither childish nor uncivilized they are just words. Granted you don't need to use what some consider "dirty words" to present a persuasive argument because there are so many other words in the English language that will work just as well. However, I would like to bring up an interesting point, who decides what is a “dirty word” and not a “dirty word”? And in the past who decided to make a word "a dirty word" and why did such a word warrant such a classification? I could go on and I do think this would make a great discussion, but at this point it doesn’t matter because the people who run this website make the rules and obviously do not want people to post “certain words that will remain nameless” so I won’t waste my time. Personally I hope the people behind this site create a section for adults. Call it something like "Agatha's Pub" for adults to discuss Christie and perhaps off topic subjects as well. I have no problem with children; I just want to have conversations with my peers. Adults and children don’t have a lot in common so children should socialize with people of their age just like adults should interact with people of their own age. Perhaps I sound a touch Victorian, but what can I say. I am sure Queen Victoria would be proud of me.

detectivepauljohn 17 Nov 08 at 9:21 a.m. GMT

Mr_Oliver_Lodge

I agree and I hope more online game

detectivepauljohn 17 Nov 08 at 9:19 a.m. GMT

na_well

Yes, I noticed that. I hope they will make a way

AndThenThereWasTim 17 Nov 08 at 4:22 a.m. GMT

I know you two would not swear.. but some people would.. this is meant to be a safe place for all ages.. Lets keep it G rated. Ive seen people use profanities on the last site and frankly i dont want to see it here even if it means giving up a few words that we may not think of as bad. Remember this is a world site.. people all over the world come to post here so what you say may not be appropriate in a different country.

LiliFan 16 Nov 08 at 6:15 p.m. GMT

I had a problem with this game "Appointment with Death", it seemed 'dysfunctional'. :) I also hope we might have some more free and simple games to enjoy here some time. Or at least have some polls and tests. Thanks.

drdavid 16 Nov 08 at 6:13 p.m. GMT

let's hope this is all early day troubles. I seem to have lost the ability or forgotten how to post a new topic as I find the current fixed ones rather limiting and there does not seem a facility for introducing new topics except under the headings of these aforementioned

Marc_Anton 16 Nov 08 at 12:43 p.m. GMT

Exactly! I have no intention to use profane or vulgar words, it is childish and uncivilised. But I find it highly irritating when I spend a lot of time and effort on a contribution to this Forum and have it rejected because a very normal word or term (or sometimes even only a part of a word!) cause a rejection. You have to go with with a mignifying glass over your text to see what cause the 'offence'. A waste of time!

squatty 16 Nov 08 at 11:56 a.m. GMT

I think the debate over the use of "dirty words" has never been about members requesting that they be able to include genuine dirty words (i.e. swearing or sexual terms)in their posts - I have no desire to do that. The problem is that innocuous words are being blocked because the word contains letters that are considered "dirty". There is a post from earlier today where the poster tried to post the word "s p o o f" but it was rejected. This is ludicrous.

na_well 15 Nov 08 at 7:39 p.m. GMT

I saw that in some replies with spoilers if you see them through the Last reply column in the main part where it shows all the posts of the topic the spoilers can be seen even if inside the post there is a spoiler warning in that particular reply. So if there is a spoiler in one reply you won't see it if you are inside the post but if you are in the main page and you read the last reply it is visible. Did I make myself clear? Is there anyway to change this?

Mr_Oliver_Lodge 15 Nov 08 at 5:16 p.m. GMT

I think that the "No dirty words" rule is good, because it's not just adults in here.

Mr_Oliver_Lodge 15 Nov 08 at 5:11 p.m. GMT

More Free Online Games!

detectivepauljohn 15 Nov 08 at 2:50 a.m. GMT

I also love to see polls like "Who's your fave detective" or "fave book?" and stuffs like that if they like to do it.

AndThenThereWasTim 15 Nov 08 at 1:53 a.m. GMT

Maybe have the Light bulbs.. but those got annoying because most of the time they didnt work.. I would like it if the time and date displayed next to the posts were adjustable to different time zones.. I find my self a little confused when I look and see I posted something at 12:00 at night. I would also like the wishlists back and perhaps a blogger profile (not personal info) just things like favorite book, your wishlist, favorite Christie movie.. ect ect. And also PLEASE keep the "Dirty Language" ban.. I hate seeing reading something with cursing and swearing.

StJohnSmythe 15 Nov 08 at 12:11 a.m. GMT

I would like to be able to create a poll in the 'Have your say' section, and let other users vote on my poll. Example from the 'Jack the Ripper' Casebook site: http://forum.casebook.org/showthread.php?t=1509

Lilwhizzz 08 Nov 08 at 12:46 p.m. GMT

i like it becuase there seems to be a lot more depth to it now and i like the clearer style i am finding the forum hard to get used to, but im sure i will soon :)

go_leafs_nation 02 Nov 08 at 12:56 p.m. GMT

Also, a Misc. section would be helpful (for those topics that are a crossover between Poirot and Marple, for instance, or those that include all of AC's books).

go_leafs_nation 01 Nov 08 at 12:26 p.m. GMT

For some reason, I can't quote people's answers in my reply. Has this feature been removed?

detectivepauljohn 26 Oct 08 at 4:22 a.m. GMT

Hello. I hope I can delete my posts and have a new post again. I can't edit my posts but I can edit my reviews. When I'll edit my posts there's an "Agatha Administration" site and I'll need to login there but I can't and it said that the username or password is invalid but I am logined in the real AC site.

I also hope we can review any books or rate them like when we are rating items from amazon. I also wanted book trailers if possible =)

I also hope there will be new online AC games. I also hope we can see everyone's profile and see what's their favorite book, owned book etc. and add them as a friend etc so that it will be more fun and enjoyable.=)

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Oct 08 at 3:14 p.m. GMT

I would like all the things which have been removed which has been suggested shoulde be put back returned (light bulbs to denote posts since last visited site and the ability to edit posts and specifically designated spoiler topics.

GKCfan 25 Oct 08 at 12:13 a.m. GMT

I see that we can edit our comments now! Thanks!

burr 18 Oct 08 at 4:29 p.m. GMT

I don't think they are referring to the model Kate Moss, but the writer Kate Mosse.

Taminar 17 Oct 08 at 7:11 p.m. GMT

Under "Famous Fans," you have misspelled the name of model Kate Moss. There's no "e" on the end.

squatty 16 Oct 08 at 5:23 p.m. GMT

I'd like to echo the other comments about the Dirty words and also, the spoiler threads. I think, even if a thread contains a potential spoiler, it is permissable to allow a thread title.

Katherine 16 Oct 08 at 8:23 a.m. GMT

I'd just like to repeat my comment that you've gone a bit OTT on Spoiler Warnings. If you can't tell what the title of the thread is that the spoilers refer to, they're not much use. Thanks!

go_leafs_nation 14 Oct 08 at 11:12 p.m. GMT

On the old forum, there would be a "lightbulb" that highlit yellow if someone posted anything new since your last visist. I think a similar system on this site would be useful. (ex. the text is bolded if a new post in a forum has appeared, etc.)

shanty_sleuth 14 Oct 08 at 9:19 p.m. GMT

I'd like to edit/delete my comments. I'd also like a list of characters for each book, as it was on the previous website.

ariadnepoirotmarple 14 Oct 08 at 8:25 p.m. GMT

Yes, I'd also like to have the ability to edit and delete my comments again, I think "dirty words" should be allowed because, in fact, dirty words in the forum aren't actually dirty and I think that's all!

GKCfan 14 Oct 08 at 7:30 p.m. GMT

I would like to have the ability to edit and delete my comments again.