THIS PLACE KILLS ME

Eisner Award Winner: Best Publication for Teens & Best Writer A compelling, propulsive YA graphic novel mystery from the author of Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me, Mariko Tamaki, and illustrator Nicole Goux. Multiple starred reviews! "Certain to leave readers breathlessly enthralled. " (Kirkus starred review) At Wilberton Academy, few students are more revered than the members of the elite Wilberton Theatrical Society—a. k. a. the WTS—and no one represents that exclusive club better than Elizabeth Woodward. Breathtakingly beautiful, beloved by all, and a talented thespian, it's no surprise she's starring as Juliet in the WTS's performance of Shakespeare's classic tragedy. But when she's found dead the morning after opening night, the whole school is thrown into chaos. Transfer student Abby Kita was one of the last people to see Elizabeth alive, and when local authorities deem the it-girl's death a suicide, Abby's not convinced. She's sure there's more to Wilburton and the WTS than meets the eye. As she gets tangled in prep school intrigues, Abby quickly realizes that Elizabeth was keeping secrets. Was one of those secrets worth killing for? Told in comics, letters, diary entries, and news articles, This Place Kills Me is a page-turning whodunnit from award-winning writer Mariko Tamaki and acclaimed illustrator Nicole Goux that will have readers on the edge of their seats and begging for an encore. Praise ***STARRED REVIEW*** "Stunning two-toned gray and pink illustrations that cue a 1980s setting... this collaboration between Tamaki and Goux isn’t just a clever and heartbreaking mystery but a deeper examination of bullying, homophobia, and belonging. The central puzzle is certain to leave readers breathlessly enthralled. " —Kirkus Reviews ***STARRED REVIEW*** "Twisty and captivating, this offers an incisive look at how power structures at institutions are enforced at the expense of vulnerable young girls. Heavy black inks emphasize light and shadow, giving illustrations a noir-like feel, while pink accents both soften weighty emotional sequences and intensify high-energy reveals. " —Publishers Weekly ***STARRED REVIEW*** "Stunning illustrations coupled with a thrilling plot make this a standout title that belongs in all YA graphic novel sections. " —School Library Journal ***STARRED REVIEW*** "Tamaki’s story and dialogue skillfully weave together a suspenseful mystery plot with deeper explorations of bullying, power dynamics and identity. However, it’s Nicole Goux’s artwork that makes the story really shine... This is a graphic novel that can be enjoyed on lots of different levels, providing suspense and satisfaction on every one. " —BookPage ***STARRED REVIEW*** "Tamaki and Goux’s exceptional storytelling will appeal to teen and adult readers alike. And the verve of this stellar script, alongside the striking stylishness of the art, will ensure that This Place Kills Me attracts readers and fans well beyond typical YA and mystery readers. " —Quill & Quire "The considerable talents of Tamaki’s storytelling and Goux’s emotive art brilliantly come together in this tragic graphic novel mystery. " —Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "It’s the dexterous artwork that steals the show, rendering each scene with dynamic energy and rich characterization that will thrill teen mystery fans. " —Booklist "Tamaki channels the casual homophobia, Moral Majority didacticism, and anti-drug propaganda of the 1980s in this tense whodunit that is meticulously illustrated and atmospherically colored in a pink, slate blue, and black palette. Teens will enjoy the dark mystery while catching a glimpse into the era... " —Horn Book Magazine

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs