I've been noticing a trend in the teen publishing industry -- mysteries set in boarding schools. And I wondered . . why? So I did some sleuthing and found a very compelling answer posted by J.T. Ellison on the CrimeReads website.
What is it about boarding school stories that we find so compelling? The glimpse behind the curtain into wealth and privilege? The coming-of-age stories? The characters’ isolation from the real world? The hierarchical, sometimes militaristic structure—from the boards to the headmistresses and headmasters to the teachers who seek refuge in the private environs? Or the privileged or tyrannical students who scream for mutiny? Perhaps it’s the often-times scandalous history behind the schools, the esoteric educations, the inevitable clashes between students––many to the point of death. Or is it the knowledge that a torrid past lurks, and our innocent protagonist will be in terrible danger? Are we so morbid? Well, yes. It’s all of these elements, and more.
There are several new titles that will satisfy your need for boarding school mysteries. Take a look at this printable list.
