Mystery Genre
What makes small, ordinary details important in mystery fiction?
They often turn out to be meaningful clues to solving the case
Who wrote “An Alpine Divorce”?
Robert Barr.
Who wrote “The Landlady”?
Roald Dahl.
Who wrote “A Jury of Her Peers”?
Susan Glaspell.
What do all three stories in this unit have in common?
They show how small details can reveal big truths.
They use small details to reveal hidden truths.
What role does suspense play in a mystery story?
It keeps readers engaged and wanting to know the truth.
Where is the story set?
In the Alps.
What first draws Billy into the bed-and-breakfast?
The glowing, inviting sign.
What crime are the characters investigating?
The death of Mr. Wright
Which author from this unit also wrote plays, and used courtroom or trial themes in their work?
Susan Glaspell, who wrote “A Jury of Her Peers.”
What is a red herring?
A false clue meant to mislead the reader.
How would you describe the husband and wife’s relationship?
Bitter, tense, and filled with conflict.
What unusual detail does Billy notice about the other “guests”?
Their names are familiar from the newspaper.
Why do Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters notice clues the men ignore?
They pay attention to domestic details.
In “A Jury of Her Peers,” what everyday domestic objects provide important clues about the crime?
The quilt, the dead bird, and the birdcage
Why do many mystery stories take place in an isolated or confined setting?
To reduce the number of possible suspects and heighten tension
How does the isolated mountain setting make the conflict between the husband and wife more intense?
It cuts them off from others, making their argument feel more dangerous and inescapable.
How does the author create suspense in the story?
By slowly revealing unsettling details that don’t add up
What decision do the women make about the evidence they find?
They hide it to protect Minnie Wright.
Which of the three stories do you think is the best example of a “classic” mystery, and why?
Student choice — must explain with reasoning. Teacher judges whether it is correct or not.
What are the 5 common mystery elements?
1. A problem, crime, or unexplained event.
2. Clues and hints that guide the reader.
3. Red herrings (false leads that distract).
4. A detective, investigator, or ordinary person solving the puzzle.
5. A final reveal or solution to the mystery.
What makes this story an example of mystery fiction?
The shocking ending and the use of deception to hide the truth.
What theme does the story explore through the landlady’s character?
(HINT: tied to the essential question.)
Appearances versus reality.
What does the broken birdcage symbolize?
Minnie Wright’s trapped and silenced life.
Imagine you are a detective. Which clue from any story would you consider most important, and why?
Student choice — must explain with reasoning. Teacher judges whether it is correct or not.