Arthur Conan Doyle

Sherlock Holmes debuted in the novel "A Study in Scarlet," published in 1887 in Beeton's Christmas Annual. The character went on to appear in four novels and 56 short stories written by Conan Doyle over nearly four decades.

Yes, Conan Doyle killed off Holmes in "The Final Problem" (1893), in which the detective apparently plunges to his death at the Reichenbach Falls while fighting Professor Moriarty. Intense public outcry eventually compelled Conan Doyle to revive Holmes in "The Adventure of the Empty House" (1903).

Conan Doyle wrote extensively beyond Holmes, including the science fiction novel "The Lost World" (1912) featuring Professor Challenger, historical novels like "The White Company," plays, poetry, and nonfiction. He considered his historical and religious writings more significant than the detective stories that made him famous.

In his later years, Conan Doyle became a passionate and very public advocate for Spiritualism, writing books on the subject and touring internationally. His dedication to spiritualism intensified after the death of his son Kingsley during World War I and reportedly cost him his friendship with Harry Houdini.