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A Good Girl's Guide to Murder

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Holly Jackson

A Good Girl's Guide to Murder

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

433

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Little Kilton • 2010s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

Lexile Level

HL700L

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Super Short Summary

In Holly Jackson's novel A Good Girl's Guide to Murder, teenager Pip Fitz-Amobi investigates the five-year-old mystery surrounding the murder of Andie Bell and the subsequent death of Sal Singh, who was accused of the crime. Pip, joined by Sal’s brother Ravi, uncovers hidden truths about the case, revealing complex relationships, drug dealings, and dark secrets in her community, all while encountering dangerous obstacles that threaten her safety. The book addresses themes such as public shame, identity, and the lengths one will go to uncover the truth.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Unnerving

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.4

1,375,653 ratings

86%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Holly Jackson's A Good Girl's Guide to Murder captivates readers with its intricate plot and compelling characters, effectively blending mystery and young adult themes. The protagonist's resourcefulness and the well-paced unveiling of clues are highlights. Some critics note a predictable ending and occasional pacing issues, but the book remains a strong debut in the genre.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Good Girl's Guide to Murder?

A reader who enjoys A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson is typically a fan of young adult mystery novels with strong, intelligent female protagonists. Ideal for those who loved One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus or Sadie by Courtney Summers, this book combines investigative thrills with contemporary high school drama.

4.4

1,375,653 ratings

86%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Pippa "Pip" Fitz-Amobi

The protagonist of *A Good Girl's Guide to Murder*, a soon-to-be high school senior who investigates a murder case. She is determined, fearless, and focused on discovering the truth for Sal Singh.

Sal Singh's younger brother, who assists Pip in her investigation. He is humble, shy, and dedicated to proving his brother's innocence.

A deceased character central to the mystery in *A Good Girl's Guide to Murder*. Though not alive in the story, she is revealed to have been enigmatic and secretive through secondhand accounts.

Deceased brother of Ravi Singh. He was seen as a golden child and hero to Pip, who is dedicated to proving his innocence.

Pip's closest friend with curly, ash-brown hair, who is supportive and protective, particularly of her sister, Naomi.

Pip's history teacher and a father figure, whose true character is revealed as the story unfolds.

Cara's older sister, fragile and mild-tempered, with a cagey demeanor due to hidden secrets.

Journalist for the *Fairview Mail* who reported on the Bell case. He is abrasive and aggressive in his opinions.

Father of Andie and Becca Bell, known for being critical and having a tense relationship with his daughters.

A friend of Sal's with a pretentious attitude, who is secretive and brusque, revealing a suspicious side due to hidden secrets.

A former classmate of Andie Bell who was bullied by her. Nat has an aggressive demeanor but calms when interacting with Ravi.

Andie Bell's younger sister, who interned at the *Fairview Mail*. She looked up to Andie but was affected by cruelty and criticism.

A drug dealer who supplied Andie with drugs. He is portrayed as dangerous and somewhat menacing.

Nat da Silva's older brother, initially suspicious for his involvement in various stages of the Bell case.

Book Details
Pages

433

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Little Kilton • 2010s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

Lexile Level

HL700L

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