Book Review: A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson

By: Aarya P.,  Grade 7

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson

• Age Rating: 13+
• Genre: Realistic Fiction, Mystery
• Length: 400 pages
• Stars: 5/5

    Pip, a high school senior, investigates the missing persons case of Andie Bell, who is now presumed dead. All the evidence points to Sal Singh, Andie’s boyfriend, but he killed himself, leaving the authorities unable to question him. Pip believes, contrary to popular opinion, that Sal wasn’t guilty. Five years later, Pip -along with Ravi Singh, Sal’s brother- reopens the case of Andie Bell, even though it was closed by the police. With her own life and those of others close to her at stake because of ominous threats, Pip digs deep into this case, and gets closer to the truth.

    One of the main themes in the book is justice and truth, represented by how the characters have to find the truth in a web of lies, and bring justice to those wrongly accused. Another theme is trust and secrets, as every character has something to hide, and whether they will reveal their secrets is a mystery. Throughout the story, Pip is affected by her emotions and many dead ends. Yet, she perseveres through it all and comes out of this adventure as a stronger and more resilient young woman.

    Although fictional, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder relates to many missing persons cases. Even with the technology we have today, people can be framed and wrongly accused, and most of the time there isn’t someone like Pip to clear their name. Like Sal Singh's family, who struggle with grief over Sal’s death, many families are shamed because of what one family member did.

    In my opinion, this book is amazing! It draws you in, and leaves you gasping for breath as major plot twists unfold. The storyline is easy to follow, and you will feel like a detective yourself as you embark on Pip's journey with her. It’s a must read, and incorporates all the elements of a great murder mystery novel. From dead ends to threats, you will not be able to put this book down. Overall, I loved A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, and I hope you do too!