Mary Roberts Rinehart

Date of Birth: August 12, 1876

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: September 22, 1958

Biography

Mary Roberts Rinehart was an American novelist and playwright, often referred to as the “American Agatha Christie.” She was born in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, which is now part of Pittsburgh. Rinehart began her career as a nurse but turned to writing after her husband lost his job. She wrote a wide range of works, including mystery novels, travelogues, and plays. Her most famous work, “The Circular Staircase,” established her reputation in the mystery genre. She is also credited with creating the “Had-I-But-Known” school of mystery writing. Throughout her career, Rinehart published over 60 books and numerous short stories and articles. She was also a war correspondent during World War I, experiencing the front lines firsthand. Rinehart’s legacy endures through her contributions to the mystery and detective genres, influencing countless writers who followed.

5 Interesting Facts about Mary Roberts Rinehart

1. Mary Roberts Rinehart is often cited as the originator of the “Had-I-But-Known” narrative style in mystery fiction.

2. She was one of the first women to visit the front lines of World War I as a war correspondent.

3. Her play “The Bat” was adapted into the 1930 film “The Bat Whispers,” which inspired Bob Kane in the creation of Batman.

4. Rinehart’s novel “The Circular Staircase” was a major success and has been adapted multiple times, including a silent film and a stage play.

5. She was a prolific writer who published over 60 books, including mysteries, plays, and travelogues.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Mary Roberts Rinehart

1. “It’s always the last person you think of.”

2. “The Dark is Light enough.”

3. “A little work, a little sleep, a little love and it’s all over.”

4. “But the thing that struck me most forcibly was that I was suddenly free to do what I really liked.”

5. “The unexpected always happens.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of her career, Mary Roberts Rinehart’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, which is equivalent to approximately $10 million today when adjusted for inflation.

Children

Mary Roberts Rinehart had three sons: Stanley M. Rinehart Jr., Alan Rinehart, and Frederick Roberts Rinehart. Stanley became a publisher and served as the president of Farrar & Rinehart, while Frederick became a publisher and author. Alan pursued a career in the business sector.