Dickens & Rumi

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Murder, my deer

Jaqueline Girdner · 2000

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for Murder, my deer by Jaqueline Girdner. This book is content notes include LGBTQIA characters, Death of a character, Frightening scenes; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Good role models.

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • LGBTQIA characters4/5
  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Good role models3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity2/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

A murder victim and the consequences of that death are central to the mystery plot.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild; bodies may be discovered, but scenes are not descriptive or graphic.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild; occasional mild expletives consistent with mainstream mystery fiction.

LGBTQIA characters4/5
Why this rating?

LGBTQIA representation is prominent because the central detective, Kate Jasper, is lesbian.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Includes romantic elements and relationship dynamics typical of the series.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Some mild suspense regarding the killer's identity, but not intentionally frightening.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Minimal; some light innuendo or references to adult relationships, but nothing graphic.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Occasional social drinking may be present as part of the setting.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Standard cozy mystery level; focused on the discovery of a murder rather than active combat.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist demonstrates persistence and courage in uncovering the truth.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Requires reader engagement in tracking clues and solving a mystery.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

The central lesbian protagonist adds meaningful identity representation, but evidence is limited about the range and depth of the wider cast.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Standard interactions between community members and friends.

Positive messages2/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist values truth and justice through amateur sleuthing.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist is a thoughtful, if occasionally impulsive, amateur investigator.

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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 are identity and relationships presented, and how do they shape the characters’ experiences?
  3. Which choice in Murder, my deer would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Murder, my deer, and what caused that change?
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