Lessons in Death

A thrilling new murder-mystery series

Sophie McKenzie

$17.99

Paperback

Forthcoming
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English

Simon & Schuster
01 January 2026

General fiction (Children's&YA); Personal & social issues: family issues (Children's&YA); Young Adult

Series: Murder Academy

The first book in a new murder-mystery school series set at Mayfield Academy from Sophie McKenzie, the bestselling author of million-copy-seller, Girl Missing.

It’s a week into the summer term, the last day of April, and murder is the last thing on my mind . . .

Life at Mayfield Academy seems normal enough – that is until Georgia discovers the drama teacher, dead, in the school library. Then, when she goes back to look for him, having gone for help, his body has vanished.

Georgia knows what she saw, but only her best friend Billy believes her.

Determined to find out what has gone on, Georgia and Billy hunt for evidence with new girl, Wren. But with friendship dynamics also at play there’s a lot more at stake than dead bodies. And it’s not long before it becomes clear that someone is prepared to go to any lengths to stop their investigation . . .

Praise for Girl, Missing:

'Page-turning' The Independent

'Will have you gripped for hours' Sunday Express

'Please read this book: it is brilliant!; The Guardian

'Whenever I hear the phrase YA thriller I only ever think of one name - and that's Sophie Mckenzie. Why? Because noboody does it better' Phil Earle, award-winning author

'Sophie's thrillers are brilliant... you can't stop reading' Robert Muchamore, bestselling author

'Brilliantly described, scary and touching' The Daily Mirror

10 YEARS OF AWARDS FOR Girl, Missing

Manchester Children's Book Awards

Bolton Children's Book Award

Soilhill Book Award

Winner of the Sakura Medal

Red House Children's Book Award

Richard and Judy Best Kids' Book

Lewisham Children's Book Award

By: Sophie McKenzie
Imprint: Simon & Schuster
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 198mm, Width: 130mm, Spine: 15mm
ISBN: 9781398542006
ISBN 10: 1398542008
Series: Murder Academy
Pages: 240
Publication Date: 01 January 2026
Recommended Age: From 9 years
Audience: Children/juvenile , Children / Juvenile
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Sophie McKenzie was born and brought up in London, where she still lives with her teenage son. She has worked as a journalist and a magazine editor, and now writes full time. She has tallied up numerous award wins and has twice been longlisted for the Carnegie Medal.