42 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
223
Novel • Fiction
Albuquerque, New Mexico • 1970s
1978
YA
14-18 years
720L
In Killing Mr. Griffin by Lois Duncan, a group of high school students, led by the charismatic Mark, kidnaps their strict English teacher, Mr. Griffin, to scare him into being more lenient. However, the situation spirals out of control when Mr. Griffin dies, leading the students to cover up the incident. Themes include peer pressure, guilt, and anger, exploring the consequences of their actions. The book addresses issues of violence and murder.
Suspenseful
Dark
Unnerving
Mysterious
Emotional
13,084 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Killing Mr. Griffin by Lois Duncan receives mixed reviews for its engaging but unsettling plot. Many commend its ability to captivate young adult readers with suspense and psychological complexity. However, some criticize the characters for being implausible and morally ambiguous. Overall, it is praised for originality but questioned for ethical implications.
Readers who enjoy Killing Mr. Griffin by Lois Duncan are typically teens interested in suspenseful, psychological thrillers with moral dilemmas. Fans of books like The Face on the Milk Carton by Caroline B. Cooney and I Know What You Did Last Summer by Lois Duncan will find this novel captivating and thought-provoking.
13,084 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mark
A manipulative and enigmatic teenager who exerts influence over others through his charisma and calculated demeanor. His disturbing behavior and lack of empathy pose a significant threat in the story.
Dave
A popular student facing personal struggles and pressure to succeed academically in order to help his family. His conflicts often revolve around identity, responsibility, and guilt.
Betsy
A superficially popular teenager characterized by her charm and manipulative nature. Her actions often reflect her attraction to attention and thrill, paying little attention to the moral implications.
Jeff
An athletic and popular student who often follows his friend Mark without questioning the consequences. He is associated with popularity but grapples with ignoring troubling realities in his life.
Mr. Griffin/Brian Griffin
A high school English teacher known for his strict demeanor and demanding standards. His actions are fueled by his belief in the importance of student discipline and success.
223
Novel • Fiction
Albuquerque, New Mexico • 1970s
1978
YA
14-18 years
720L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.