The Killer's Cousin

Title: The Killer's Cousin
Author: Nancy Werlin
Author's Website: http://www.nancywerlin.com/

ISBN: 978-0-329-69824-9

Publisher: Speak

Copyright Date: 1998

Genre: Suspense

Reading Level/Interest Age: 15-18

Awards: Edgar Award, Horn Book 1999. ALA Notable Children's Books, 1999.

Plot Summary: When David is acquitted of killing his girlfriend, his parents send him to live out of state with his aunt, uncle and strange young cousin, Lily. Not only is Lily hostile towards David, but he quickly begins to uncover the secrets from her past. As the story unfolds, David struggles to come to terms with his past. He learns that Lily might have a similar dark secret explaining her hostility and rage towards him.

Critical Evaluation: Nancy Werlin successfully weaves a compelling tale that will keep readers engaged and anxious to find out how sympathetic David was ever able to murder his girlfriend. While it was slightly frustrating as a reader to see how Lily's parents blamed David for all of her sneaky antics around the house, it also helped to build the mounting tension that was sure to erupt. 

Reader's Annotation: When a teenager is acquitted of murder and forced to go live with his aunt, uncle and strange cousin, he quickly learns there are some secrets in his family. 

Booktalking Ideas: Anger, identity

Why did you include this book: I included this book because it serves as an excellent suspense novel which helps to keep reluctant readers engaged. 
Quote: "When it hurts, when we're afraid, if we're ever tempted -- we tell each other. I'll help you. You'll help me. We won't use the power we have. And we'll find ways to do good. To...to atone."