Killing Mr. Griffin Book Summary

by Lois Duncan54

TL;DR

In Lois Duncan's 'Killing Mr. Griffin', a group of high school students plot to kidnap their strict teacher, Mr. Griffin, to teach him a lesson but find themselves in a deadly situation as their plans spiral out of control.

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What is Killing Mr. Griffin about

'Killing Mr. Griffin' explores themes of peer pressure, the consequences of actions, and the moral dilemmas faced by adolescents. The story revolves around a group of students at Del Norte High who, frustrated by their tyrannical English teacher, Mr. Griffin, devise a plan to kidnap him as a misguided act of rebellion. What begins as a prank soon escalates into a nightmare when they lose control of their actions, leading to unforeseen consequences. The book highlights the complexity of teenage emotions and the impact of group dynamics, making it both a compelling narrative and a cautionary tale.

Killing Mr. Griffin 6 Key Takeaways

The Plan

Mark, a member of the group, suggests they teach Mr. Griffin a lesson by kidnapping him for a few hours, which they initially see as harmless fun.

Execution

The group, consisting of several students, executes the plan but soon realizes that keeping Mr. Griffin captive is more complicated than they anticipated.

Escalation

As tensions rise during the abduction, a sense of fear and desperation begins to take over, indicating that their intentions may have far-reaching consequences.

The Turning Point

A critical moment occurs when the situation escalates to violence, making the students grapple with the reality of their actions and the potential for murder.

Confrontation

The group faces each other's fears and guilt, leading to a confrontation that tests their friendships and moral choices.

Consequences

The aftermath of their actions forces each student to confront the reality and repercussions of their decisions, impacting their lives forever.

Top Killing Mr. Griffin Quotes

  • Sometimes the best-laid plans can lead to the worst of consequences.
  • It's not about the action itself, but the decisions that lead up to it.
  • Peer pressure can turn even the most innocent intentions into a nightmare.

Who should read Killing Mr. Griffin?

'Killing Mr. Griffin' is ideal for young adult readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and stories that delve into the complexities of teen life. The book speaks to those grappling with peer dynamics, providing insights into the consequences of actions while evoking critical thinking about moral choices.

About the Author

Lois Duncan (1934-2016) was a celebrated American author known for her contributions to young adult literature, particularly in the thriller and mystery genres. With a career spanning over five decades, Duncan authored numerous novels, including 'I Know What You Did Last Summer' and 'Daughters of Eve'. Her works often explore themes of adolescent angst, moral dilemmas, and the complexities of growing up, making her a significant voice in YA literature.

Killing Mr. Griffin Best Reviews

  • Lois Duncan masterfully captures the complexities of teenage rebellion in 'Killing Mr. Griffin', offering readers an intense and thought-provoking narrative that resonates long after the last page.
  • A gripping read that delves deep into the psyche of adolescents, this novel remains relevant, highlighting the dangers of peer pressure and the consequences of impulsive actions.
  • Duncan's portrayal of the characters’ descent from frustration to a life-altering crisis serves as a chilling reminder of how quickly intentions can spiral out of control.

Killing Mr. Griffin FAQs

Why was 'Killing Mr. Griffin' banned?

'Killing Mr. Griffin' has been challenged for its themes of violence, peer pressure, and other mature topics. While it has faced bans, it has also been defended for its educational value, particularly in discussions about consequences.

Is 'Killing Mr. Griffin' based on a true story?

While the book is a fictional narrative, it draws on real themes of peer pressure and the societal challenges faced by teenagers, making it relatable but not based on actual events.

What is the main message of 'Killing Mr. Griffin'?

The book highlights the dangers of peer pressure and the moral complexities faced by teenagers, illustrating how choices made in moments of frustration can lead to devastating consequences.