The Agathas by Kathleen Glasgow and Liz Lawson

THE AGATHAS by Kathleen Glasgow and Liz Lawson is a new mystery story written for young adults. Glasgow (How to Make Friends with the Dark) and Lawson (The Lucky Ones) share the perspective of Iris Adams and Alice Ogilvie, two high school students who unexpectedly bond while searching for answers to a classmate’s disappearance. Reminiscent of the humor and bungling investigation of Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building,” the sleuths frequently channel Agatha Christie and her characters. For example, they compare themselves to Miss Marple, saying, “Because people don’t see you, you have free rein to listen in on conversations, observe behavior, and learn patterns. All of these things are essential to surviving life, particularly high school.” Jumping from one suspect to another can be a bit dizzying, but the frantic pace will keep readers engaged. The authors also weave in commentary about social class like “These kids and all their privilege. It makes me sick. Floating through life on a cloud of money” or noting: “In Castle Cove, you are either the served or the server.” Witty co-narrators, Iris and Alice struggle with their own secrets and feelings of self-worth, due in part to a domestic abuse situation. There is also plenty of back and forth in the final authors’ note, revealing the fun Glasgow and Lawson had in crafting this tale. A lower lexile (660) makes for a quick, entertaining read.