"The Somnambulist and the Detective" is a work of detective fiction written by Allan Pinkerton, the American detective and founder of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency. The book was first published in 1875. The novel is a collection of detective stories and is known for featuring Pinkerton himself as a detective character. The stories typically involve solving mysteries and crimes, often employing deductive reasoning and investigative techniques. While Pinkerton's real-life detective work influenced many aspects of detective fiction, this work combines his expertise with elements of fiction for an engaging and entertaining narrative. Allan Pinkerton is considered one of the pioneers of modern detective work, and his agency played a significant role in solving many high-profile cases during the 19th century. "The Somnambulist and the Detective" reflects his experiences and skills in the world of detective work and serves as a precursor to the detective genre in literature.