About This Book
Mel Glenn's Edgar Allan Poe Award-nominated "Who Killed Mr. Chippendale?" is a compelling young adult mystery presented entirely in free verse poetry. The book delves into the immediate aftermath of a beloved high school English teacher's murder, exploring the shock, grief, and suspicion among students, colleagues, and even former acquaintances. It's more than a whodunit; it's a profound exploration of community, loss, and the varied ways individuals cope with tragedy, making it an excellent choice for mature middle schoolers and high schoolers.
Free verse poems describe the reactions of students, colleagues, and others when a high school teacher is shot to death as the school day begins.
Character Death
Violence
Scary Scenes
peril_danger
mental_health_themes
Discussion Prompts
1
How do different characters react to Mr. Chippendale's death, and what do their reactions tell us about them?
2
What role does poetry play in telling this mystery, compared to a traditional prose novel?
3
How does the book explore the idea of justice and fairness in the context of a crime?
4
What are some of the 'multitude of issues' the School Library Journal review mentions, and how are they presented?
5
Who did you suspect, and why? Were you surprised by the ending?
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