Piano Lessons Can Be Murder

by R.L. Stine
Piano Lessons Can Be Murder cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Horror
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  • ID: 10746
  • Added: 2026-02-03
  • Updated: 2026-02-05
  • ISBN: 9780545910392
  • Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
  • Published: 2018-06-26
  • Reviews: 3

Jerry is convinced there's something off about his new piano teacher, Dr. Shreek. As he starts to hear chilling tales about the music school and students who never finished their lessons alive, Jerry's suspicions grow. The atmosphere at Dr. Shreek's becomes increasingly sinister, and Jerry must uncover the truth before it's too late./n/nThis thrilling installment in the Goosebumps series combines elements of horror and suspense, perfect for young readers who enjoy a good scare. The story explores themes of fear and the unknown, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

Reviews
Culture Vulture Express · 2023-12-16
wonderful 4.50

The book is described as a wonderful read, with a satisfying slow-burn ghost story that plays out well. The protagonist, Jerry, is well-developed and relatable.

This reviewer found Piano Lessons Can Be Murder to be a wonderful read, particularly enjoying the slow-burn ghost story aspect. The protagonist, Jerry, is well-developed and relatable, making the story even more engaging. The reviewer appreciates the eerie atmosphere and the way the story unfolds, creating a satisfying and enjoyable reading experience. The book's ability to capture the essence of a classic ghost story while adding its own unique twists makes it a standout in the Goosebumps series.

Quick quotes

    Goosebumps: Piano Lessons Can Be Murder (1993) by R.L. Stine is a wonderful read.

    It's mostly a domestic ghost story, and I think it's played out in a satisfying slow burn.

    This is one of the really pretty good Goosebumps books in the series.

Reading with My Eyes · 2020-09-29
engaging 4.00

The story is focused and narrative-driven, with a crazy ending that only R.L. Stine could come up with. The character development is strong, making it a standout in the series.

This reviewer praises Piano Lessons Can Be Murder for its focused narrative and strong character development. The story is engaging from start to finish, with a crazy ending that is quintessentially R.L. Stine. The reviewer appreciates the lack of typical Goosebumps tropes like bullies or annoying siblings, which allows the story to shine. The eerie atmosphere and well-crafted characters make this a memorable and enjoyable read.

Quick quotes

    This story is focused, and narrative driven.

    The ending is crazy, and only one that R.L. Stine could come up with.

    While the novel did not have much of a supporting cast (no bullies or annoying siblings this time).

The Guardian · 2012-07-03
creepy 3.50

The book is described as tremendously scary, though not as frightening as some other Goosebumps titles. The eerie atmosphere and strange teacher add to the creepy fun.

This reviewer found Piano Lessons Can Be Murder to be a thrilling read, especially for those who enjoy a good scare. The eerie piano and the strange teacher create a perfectly weird and nostalgic Goosebumps experience. While it's not the scariest in the series, it's still a fun and engaging read that captures the essence of what makes Goosebumps so beloved. The book's ability to evoke nostalgia and deliver a satisfyingly creepy story makes it a standout in the series.

Quick quotes

    This book is tremendously scary, however, it is not as scary as some other ones.

    I only bought this book because I play the piano but it was a great read.

    The eerie piano, the strange teacher, it's creepy, fun, and perfectly weird.

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