Holly Jackson’s A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, a book that dominated the New York Times Best Seller list for 77 weeks, has now been adapted into a Netflix series. The story centers on Pip, a 17-year-old who reopens a closed murder case from five years prior, uncovering unsettling secrets in her town. As a parent, you’re likely wondering about the age appropriateness of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder. This a good girl’s guide series parents guide provides a detailed breakdown of the content.
Still shot from A Good Girl
Age Rating Breakdown
The age recommendation for A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder varies slightly depending on the format (book vs. TV series) and the source providing the rating. Generally, it’s considered suitable for ages 14 and up, though some parents may prefer older teens due to mature themes.
Book Age Rating
The publisher, Penguin Random House, suggests A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is appropriate for readers aged 14+.
TV Show Age Rating
The TV Parental Guidelines rating is TV-MA, indicating content intended for mature audiences aged 17 and older. However, Common Sense Media suggests a 14+ rating for the show.
Parental Guidance Recommended
The discrepancy in ratings signals a need for parental discretion. The series and book contain mature content that may warrant a conversation with your teen.
Content Considerations for Parents
Here’s a detailed look at the potentially sensitive content found in A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder:
Language
Expect profanity in both the book and TV series. The language reflects how teenagers often speak, with the TV show potentially containing more explicit language than the book.
Sex and Nudity
While nudity is not shown on screen, discussions about it occur. The book contains a scene where a teen is coerced into sending a nude photo, highlighting the dangers of digital coercion. Teenage romance is present, mainly involving kissing and some descriptions of groping in the book. Underage sex is frequently alluded to as well.
Substance Use
Drugs and drug-dealing are prevalent throughout the story. The TV show depicts ketamine use, while both the book and series feature underage drinking. Rohypnol, a date-rape drug, also plays a significant role in the plot.
Violence
The series contains violence, including murder, discussions of suicide, self-harm, self-induced vomiting, rape, and sexual assault. While the show does not depict all the violence described in the book, certain scenes, such as a murder victim with a bloody head, are shown on screen.
Positive Messages
Despite the mature content, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder carries positive messages. Pip is a strong and determined protagonist who seeks justice for someone wrongly accused. She demonstrates resilience and a willingness to learn from her mistakes, making her a good role model.
The Bottom Line: Is It Right For Your Child?
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder offers a suspenseful and engaging story, but it’s essential to consider your child’s maturity level and sensitivity to the themes discussed. Watching the show or reading the book beforehand can help you determine if it’s appropriate for your teen.
Tools like BrightCanary can also help parents monitor their children’s online activity, providing insights into the content they’re consuming and any potential red flags. While BrightCanary doesn’t cover Netflix, it can monitor YouTube, Google, text messages, and social media for content related to the show or other concerning topics. This approach helps parents proactively understand their children’s media interests and address any potential concerns.
