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

Purpose:  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 the solution  To engage the reader in gathering clues, analyzing clues, and prediction  To intrigue/entertain the reader with questions who did it, what happened and why, and if and when the crime or problem will be solved

Characteristics:  Follow narrative structure and contains narrative elements: characters in setting with the problem, creating conflict or tension through events leading to a climax, then a final solution  Sometimes classified as historical fiction, adventure, and realistic fiction  Suspense is the chief element  Includes various subgenres which are defined by the inclusion of public and private detectives as well as amateurs

Theme:  Progressively revealed as character discovers clues to 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 or her  The antagonist is the villain; suspects are also presented as possible villains  The victim is a target of an evil deed  Character reactions to clue-based events provide hints/motives

Setting:  Mood (typically dark, dreary, mysterious, scary)  Can be important or backdrop (unimportant) depending on the type of crime or mystery

Plot:  Focused on a crime, puzzle or unusual problem to solve  Progressive, complex plot development leads to 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”

Plot: 4. Development: a. Conflict = Crime b. Strategically placed clues and character reactions to clues. c. Climax involving interactions between sleuth and villain d. Conclusion revealing motive and resolutions of crime

Author’s craft: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 reader off track  Infusing clues for the reader  1. Hints provided through dialogues  2. Hints provided by characters’ actions, and observing and their interactions

Adapted from:Adapted from: The Genre Project of the Michigan Department of Education