Close to Death
Book • 2024
by Anthony Horowitz
In New York Times–bestselling author Anthony Horowitz’s ingenious fifth literary whodunit in the Hawthorne and Horowitz series, Detective Hawthorne is once again called upon to solve an unsolvable case—a gruesome murder in an idyllic gated community in which suspects abound
Riverside Close is a picture-perfect community. The six exclusive and attractive houses are tucked far away from the noise and grime of city life, allowing the residents to enjoy beautiful gardens, pleasant birdsong and tranquility from behind the security of a locked gate.
It is the perfect idyll until the Kentworthy family arrives, with their four giant, gas-guzzling cars, a gaggle of shrieking children and plans for a garish swimming pool in the backyard. Obvious outsiders, the Kentworthys do not belong in Riverside Close, and they quickly offend every last one of their neighbours.
When Giles Kentworthy is found dead on his own doorstep, a crossbow bolt sticking out of his chest, Detective Hawthorne is the only investigator that can be called on to solve the case.
Because how do you solve a murder when everyone is a suspect?
Close to Death
Book • 2024
by Anthony Horowitz
In New York Times–bestselling author Anthony Horowitz’s ingenious fifth literary whodunit in the Hawthorne and Horowitz series, Detective Hawthorne is once again called upon to solve an unsolvable case—a gruesome murder in an idyllic gated community in which suspects abound
Riverside Close is a picture-perfect community. The six exclusive and attractive houses are tucked far away from the noise and grime of city life, allowing the residents to enjoy beautiful gardens, pleasant birdsong and tranquility from behind the security of a locked gate.
It is the perfect idyll until the Kentworthy family arrives, with their four giant, gas-guzzling cars, a gaggle of shrieking children and plans for a garish swimming pool in the backyard. Obvious outsiders, the Kentworthys do not belong in Riverside Close, and they quickly offend every last one of their neighbours.
When Giles Kentworthy is found dead on his own doorstep, a crossbow bolt sticking out of his chest, Detective Hawthorne is the only investigator that can be called on to solve the case.
Because how do you solve a murder when everyone is a suspect?
Bara says...
Ages 14+, but every child is different
The central premise involves a lethal murder via a violent weapon, which necessitates maturity to process. The focus on complex social friction and adult interpersonal conflict aligns with late adolescent interest rather than childhood entertainment.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
The story centers on a murder mystery investigation and does not contain romantic or sexual content.
Violence & Gore
The plot focuses on a murder caused by a crossbow bolt to the chest; while the imagery is central to the mystery, it entails moderate levels of blood and physical injury.
Profanity
The dialogue contains infrequent mild language typical of a standard mystery novel, including words like d*mn or h*ll used in moments of character frustration.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
Characters may be seen consuming alcohol in social settings typical of an upscale residential neighborhood, but substance use is not a focal point of the story.
Frightening Scenes
The mystery provides a sense of psychological tension and suspense as neighbors suspect one another of a crime, creating a serious and investigative tone.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This story is a puzzle-solving adventure about a neighborhood detective trying to figure out who is responsible for a crime in a tense community.
Content Warnings
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
The story centers on a gruesome murder involving a crossbow bolt, requiring a level of comfort with darker thematic elements and mild violence.
What Kids Can Learn
Developing an eye for detail and the importance of looking past surface-level appearances to uncover hidden motivations.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
The narrative offers a sophisticated, classic whodunit experience that rewards careful attention to character dialogue and environmental clues.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
The narrative emphasizes the necessity of truth and critical thinking when navigating social facades and community tensions.
Positive Role Models
Detective Hawthorne serves as an analytical, persistent investigator who prioritizes solving injustice over social niceties.
Diverse Representations
No diverse representation content indicated in available information.
Educational Value
Develops deductive reasoning and analytical skills through observing suspect behaviors and piecing together fragmented information.
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