This Place Kills Me

Gr 10 Up–Newcomer Abby is desperately struggling to find her place at her new all-girls boarding school when she finally bonds with a classmate, Elizabeth, who warns her of the dangers of fitting in with the popular crowd. The next day, Wilberton Academy is shaken to its core when Elizabeth, who just starred as Juliet in the school play, is found dead in the woods, staged in her Juliet costume complete with a dagger. Investigations ensue, and Abby continues to struggle with her peers but eventually begins to build a relationship with her roommate as they try to uncover the truth behind Elizabeth’s death, realizing it may not be what it seems. Elegantly crafted through several art mediums, including posters, handwritten notes, bulletin boards, and playbooks, Tamiki and Goux take readers through a coming-of-age journey filled with angst, grief, discrimination, and justice. The raw depiction of high school includes mature language, sexual references, and teen partying. Tamiki introduces a diverse cast of characters, each navigating their own sexual identity and personal struggles. Goux's art soars with dynamic panels and beautiful, contrasting colors that bring this mystery to life, enhancing the tone. Fans of Karen M. McManus and Holly Jackson will devour this graphic novel.