Cozy mysteries, a subgenre of mystery fiction, are gaining popularity among younger readers, including Gen Z. The appeal of the genre lies in its ability to provide a refreshing escape from the stresses of modern life through its slower pace, focus on character development, and lack of explicit violence or gore.
Additionally, cozy mysteries often incorporate themes of community, social justice, and comfort, making them relatable to young kiddos who are passionate about social issues and looking for stories that reflect their values. Here are a few cozy mystery series that would be great to read:
"The Skeleton Mystery": by Leigh Perry: follows the story of Dr. Georgia Thackery, a college adjunct professor who, along with her daughter, has relocated to the quaint New England town of Northampton. including her best friend, Sid, who is a walking, talking skeleton. Literally, my favorite character in the whole series, and has my heart. Sid is a former lab specimen of Georgia's, now brought to life through a combination of Georgia's scientific knowledge and a bit of magic.
"The Port Danby Series" by London Lovett: follows the story of Lacey 'Pink' Pinkerton, a florist turned amateur sleuth who has recently moved back to her hometown of Port Danby, a small coastal town. Lacey is hoping for a fresh start, but she quickly becomes embroiled in a string of local mysteries that require her to put her hyperosmia (overwhelming sensitivity to smells) skills to the test.
"Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mysteries" by Mia P. Manansala: follows the story of Lila Macapagal, a 20-something Filipina-American who has recently returned to her hometown of Shady Palms, Illinois. Lila is determined to help save Tita Rosie's restaurant. However, when a food critic who visited the restaurant is found dead, Lila becomes embroiled in a murder investigation that may threaten the future of the business and her family's livelihood.
"The Coffeehouse Mysteries" series by Cleo Coyle: Set in a charming New York City coffeehouse, this series features coffeehouse manager Clare Cosi and her estranged ex-husband, who happens to show up and try to help run the coffee shop. Did I mention his mom owns the cafe? The series is known for its coffee-related puns, mouth-watering recipes, and engaging mysteries.
"The Bakeshop Mysteries" by Ellie Alexander: One of my FAVORITES follows the story of Juliet "Jules" Capshaw, a skilled pastry chef who has returned to her hometown of Ashland, Oregon to help run her family's bakeshop, Torte. Jules is passionate about baking and takes pride in Torte's artisanal creations. However, running a business is never easy, and Jules often finds herself juggling her professional responsibilities with her personal relationships and her desire to solve local mysteries.
These series are just a few examples of the many cozy mysteries that are popular among the Gen Z crowd, or they should be! With their engaging characters, charming settings, and gentle humor, these series offer a much-needed escape from the stresses of modern life and a sense of comfort and nostalgia that is sure to appeal to readers of all ages.
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