KN Magazine: Articles

Amy Denton Shane McKnight Amy Denton Shane McKnight

The Use of Mysteries in the Classroom

Mystery novels by Tony Hillerman and Craig Johnson offer more than just suspense—they provide rich opportunities for students to explore Native American culture, develop critical thinking, and better understand history and literature through engaging storytelling. Perfect for high school and college classrooms alike.

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Delphine Boswell Shane McKnight Delphine Boswell Shane McKnight

Motifs for Murder

Motifs are a powerful tool in mystery writing, helping to develop themes, characters, and mood. This article explores the importance of motifs, such as crows, mirrors, and other repeated symbols, and how they contribute to the overall impact of a story.

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Paula Messina Shane McKnight Paula Messina Shane McKnight

You Want Me to Spend Time with You?

For a character to keep readers invested, flaws are fine as long as they're presented effectively. This article explores how character development, contrasts, and redeeming qualities can make even the most unlikable characters worth following to the end.

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