Dickens & Rumi
Cover of A GOOD GIRL'S GUIDE TO MURDER

book

A GOOD GIRL'S GUIDE TO MURDER

Holly Jackson

Pippa Fitz-Amobi solves murderous crimes. (Ages 14 and up)

Ages 16+Source checked

Why this age? Strong mature themes include murder, suicide, sexual assault, drugging, kidnapping, threats, animal death, and an attempted strangulation. The investigation is emotionally intense and best suited to older teens. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age16+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character5/5
  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Sexual content & nudity4/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Generic mentions of modern life; no significant brand promotion.

Death of a character5/5
Why this rating?

The central plot revolves around a murder, a suicide, and a long-hidden death. The impact of loss is significant.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

References to a drowned dog and the discovery of a body in a septic tank; violence is present but not gratuitous.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild to moderate profanity used throughout the teen dialogue.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Mild romantic subplot develops between the lead characters; focus remains on the mystery.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Features tense, suspenseful situations where the protagonist is stalked and threatened.

Sexual content & nudity4/5
Why this rating?

Sexual assault is a major plot element: drug-facilitated rape and multiple alleged rapes are revealed. The passages establish severe content but not graphic sexual detail.

Alcohol or drugs3/5
Why this rating?

Drug use and illegal sales are central to the mystery; use is depicted negatively.

Violence4/5
Why this rating?

Includes descriptions of physical altercations, threats, kidnapping, and attempted strangulation.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates considerable bravery in seeking the truth despite threats.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Encourages analytical thinking and problem-solving through the mystery structure.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Reflects a multicultural cast, notably in the protagonist's background.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Touches on investigative techniques and the importance of evidence in legal contexts.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Friendship and support between characters provide a balance to the dark themes.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Promotes truth, perseverance, and justice; highlights the dangers of secrets and toxic behavior.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Pippa is a determined, smart, and brave protagonist, though she takes significant risks.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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 A GOOD GIRL'S GUIDE TO MURDER would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in A GOOD GIRL'S GUIDE TO MURDER, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to get it

Find in a libraryBuy on Bookshop.orgBuy on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate, Dickens & Rumi may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

You’re hereA GOOD GIRL'S GUIDE TO MURDER
HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWSJ.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCEJ.K. RowlingAges 13+HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS (FULL-CAST EDITION)J.K. RowlingAges 13+

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

Report an incorrect rating