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Mystery

Mystery

Definition:

A narrative that involves a crime or intriguing problem around which the plot is built. The main character (sleuth) embarks on a search to reveal the hidden secrets to explain clue-based events, find the truth, and solve the problem. The focus is on the character and actions of the person solving the crime rather than on the criminal or victims of the crime.

Purposes:

• To involve the reader in the characters’ quest (speculations and predictions) to solve an intriguing problem
• To engage the reader in the excitement of suspense leading to the thrill of solution
• To engage the reader in gathering clues, analyzing clues, and prediction
• To intrigue/entertain the reader with questions about who did it, what happened and why, and if and when the crime or problem will be solved

Characteristics:

• Follows narrative structure and contains narrative elements: characters in settings with problems, creating conflict or tension through events leading to a climax, then a final resolution
• Sometimes classified as historical fiction, adventure, or realistic fiction
• Suspense is the chief element

Themes:

• Progressively revealed as characters discover clues and react to events

Characters:

• Main characters are fully developed and realistic
• Supporting characters are flat, or underdeveloped
• The protagonist is the detective, sleuth, or main character, and is fully developed through descriptions of appearance, actions, speech, opinions and what others say and think about him/her
• The antagonist is the villain; suspects are also presented as possible villains
• The victim is the target of an evil deed
• Character reactions to clue-based events provide hints/motives

Setting:

• Mood (typically dark, dreary, mysterious, scary)
• Importance based on the type of crime or mystery

Plot:

• Focused on a crime, puzzle or unusual problem to solve
• Progressive, complex plot development leads to a successful resolution which includes a:
  1. Series of interrelated events
  2. Strategically placed clues (e.g. fingerprints, letters, notes, secret codes) are revealed by observing characters’ actions and motives
  3. Progression of “discoveries”
  4. Development:
     a. Conflict = Crime
     b. Strategically placed clues and character reaction to clues
     c. Climax involving interactions between sleuth and villain
     d. Conclusion revealing motive and resolution of crime

Author’s craft:

• Development of interrelated, suspenseful events
• Use of foreshadowing (inclusion of clues to solve the mystery)
• Suspenseful cliffhanger chapter endings compel the reader to continue
• Red herring (clues) throw the reader off track
• Infusing clues for the reader
  1. Hints provided through dialogues
  2. Hints provided by characters’ actions, and observing characters and their interactions

Grade Level Instructional Scope for COMPREHENDING the Genre and Text of Mysteries:

Grade Level Instructional Scope for COMPOSING the Genre and Text of Mysteries:

Booklists:

• Grade 5
• Grade 7

Access to the Documents:

Complete K-8 Genre Project
From the Michigan Department of Education

Complete K-8 Genre Booklist
From Kent Intermediate School District