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“Stunning two-toned gray and pink illustrations that cue a 1980s setting…this collaboration between Tamaki and Goux isn’t just a clever and heartbreaking mystery but a deeper examination of bullying, homophobia, and belonging. The central puzzle is certain to leave readers breathlessly enthralled.”

—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

“Twisty and captivating, this offers an incisive look at how power structures at institutions are enforced at the expense of vulnerable young girls. Heavy black inks emphasize light and shadow, giving illustrations a noir-like feel, while pink accents both soften weighty emotional sequences and intensify high-energy reveals.”

—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“Tamaki’s story and dialogue skillfully weave together a suspenseful mystery plot with deeper explorations of bullying, power dynamics and identity. However, it’s Nicole Goux’s artwork that makes the story really shine…This is a graphic novel that can be enjoyed on lots of different levels, providing suspense and satisfaction on every one.”

—BookPage, Starred Review

This Place Kills Me

Written by Mariko Tamaki
Illustrated by Nicole Goux
Published by Abrams Fanfare

At Wilberton Academy, few students are more revered than the members of the elite Wilberton Theatrical Society—a.k.a. the WTS—and no one represents that exclusive club better than Elizabeth Woodward.

Breathtakingly beautiful, beloved by all, and a talented thespian, it’s no surprise she’s starring as Juliet in the WTS’s performance of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. But when she’s found dead the morning after opening night, the whole school is thrown into chaos.

Transfer student Abby Kita was one of the last people to see Elizabeth alive, and when local authorities deem the it-girl’s death a suicide, Abby’s not convinced. She’s sure there’s more to Wilburton and the WTS than meets the eye. As she gets tangled in prep school intrigues, Abby quickly realizes that Elizabeth was keeping secrets. Was one of those secrets worth killing for?

Primary ISBN: 9781419768460
Publication Date: August 2025
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback
Young Adult, Graphic Novel, Age 14 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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