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Cover of THE AGATHAS

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THE AGATHAS

Kathleen Glasgow and Liz Lawson

Two high schoolers team up to investigate a classmate’s death. (Ages 14 to 17)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? The mystery involves murder, danger, grief, harassment, substance-related situations, and emotionally complex relationships. The treatment is aimed at teens rather than younger middle-grade readers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character4/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Diverse representation3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Mentions of pop culture and specific brands typical of contemporary high school settings.

Death of a character4/5
Why this rating?

A girl’s disappearance and suspected murder drive the mystery, and grief is explored. Death is central, though the supplied evidence does not establish graphic or on-page depiction.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional references to injuries, but no graphic depictions.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Contains occasional mild profanity and standard teen-level insults.

LGBTQIA characters2/5
Why this rating?

Inclusive of diverse character identities common in modern YA literature.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Features age-appropriate teen crushes and budding romantic relationships.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Suspense, danger, secrets, a missing girl, and investigation of a possible murder create sustained tension.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Mild teen-level sexual references and exploration of relationships.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Minor references to teen partying and alcohol usage.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes descriptions of a kidnapping and some mild physical altercations common in teen mysteries.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters frequently face dangerous situations to uncover the truth.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on logical deduction and creative problem-solving.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse cast of well-rounded teenage characters.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Introduces literary appreciation through the lens of Agatha Christie's works.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Focuses on the growing bond and supportive nature of the two main characters.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

The story emphasizes truth-seeking, accountability, friendship, empathy, and challenging privilege and unfair assumptions.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Protagonists show perseverance and intelligence, though they occasionally make flawed teen choices.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in THE AGATHAS would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE AGATHAS, and what caused that change?
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Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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