Murder Is Bad Manners (WELLS & WONG MURDER IS B)
Robin Stevens
BOOK REVIEW

In the delightful swirl of youthful curiosity and the sinister twists of mystery, Murder Is Bad Manners by Robin Stevens thrusts readers into the heart of a captivating whodunit. Set against the charming backdrop of 1930s England, this novel intricately weaves the innocence of childhood with the grim realities of murder, captivating the young adult audience who is now fortunate to step into the shoes of Wells & Wong-two friends aiming to solve a case that will thrill your senses and keep you on the edge of your seat. 🕵?♀️✨️
As the narrative unfolds, we join Hazel Wong, a determined and level-headed girl from Hong Kong, and her fiercely loyal friend Daisy Wells, who embodies the energy and boldness of spirited youth. The two find themselves at Deepdean School for Girls, a seemingly tranquil place of education. But when the body of their science teacher suddenly appears-murdered, of course-their idyllic surroundings morph into a labyrinth of secrets and lies. With a combination of surviving the complexities of friendship and tackling adult themes cloaked in youthful intuition, Stevens creates a powerful tapestry that speaks volumes to both its characters and its audience.
The novel, laden with with echoes of Agatha Christie's finest, invites readers into a dance of deduction and misdirection. 🎭 As Hazel and Daisy embark on their investigation, they not only challenge the status quo of their time-a period steeped in class divides and gender norms-but also confront their own evolving identities as young women in a society that often seeks to stifle their voices. Stevens highlights this clash beautifully, offering sparks of rebellion that will resonate with readers familiar with the struggles of adolescence and the desire for independence.
Delving deeper, Murder Is Bad Manners engages with themes like loyalty, morality, and the struggle for empowerment, all wrapped within an enthralling plot that keeps readers not just entertained, but also questioning the nature of good and evil. In a sea of critiques, certain readers found the characters a tad too precocious, arguing that Wells and Wong's intellect might stretch the bounds of believability for middle-grade readers. Yet, isn't this essence of childhood imagination? To outsmart the world around you, navigating its perils with spunky bravado? Stevens captures that spirit-one that every adult recalls with fondness as they reminisce about their juvenile escapades.
Moreover, the representation within the book holds a hefty weight, as Hazel's character honors the significance of diversity in literature, empowering readers who may see themselves reflected in her journey. The backdrop of 1930s England contrasts sharply with the voices of the new generation, stirring emotions as readers arrive at the conclusion that history is often a repeating cycle-filled with the unyielding spirit of youth insisting on change.
Although this is a work aimed at young readers, Murder Is Bad Manners extends its chords far and wide, reaching adults who seek layers of adventure masked behind a coming-of-age narrative. Readers can't help but be buoyed by this tale; its charm lies in the way it not only teaches but also encourages one to ponder deeper about societal issues, leaving you with an aftertaste that lingers.
In a world tearing at the seams of chaos, what could be more comforting than returning to a story where friendship triumphs over adversity, and the thrill of discovery is an intoxicating elixir? Grab a copy, immerse yourself in the charming chaos of Murder Is Bad Manners, and allow yourself to be whisked away into an age where the stakes have never felt higher, and the bonds of friendship illuminate even the darkest of mysteries. Will you join Hazel and Daisy in unveiling the truth, or will you overlook a tale ready to spark curiosity and inspire change? 🔍💖
📖 Murder Is Bad Manners (WELLS & WONG MURDER IS B)
✍ by Robin Stevens
🧾 336 pages
2016
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