Holly Jackson Books

When I first picked up A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, I was curious to see why it had become such a hit with teenagers. Very quickly, I found myself completely drawn in. Holly Jackson has written a gripping, clever mystery that feels both modern and accessible, while still offering plenty of depth for discussion.

The story centres on Pippa Fitz-Amobi, a sixth-form student who decides to re-investigate a local murder for her school project. What begins as a straightforward academic exercise soon turns into something much darker, as she uncovers secrets the town has worked hard to keep hidden.

As a teacher, I was struck by how well the book models critical thinking skills. Pippa questions assumptions, evaluates evidence, and reflects on bias – skills we encourage in the classroom across subjects. It also raises important issues for discussion, including truth, justice, and how we decide whose voices are believed. These themes make it more than just a page-turner; it’s a book that invites students to think deeply about the world around them.