Liar & Spy

Stead, R. (2012). Liar & spy. New York: Wendy Lamb Books

Georges moves into a new apartment in a new place he doesn't really likes, mostly because he has no friends.  His dad lost his job and they had to sell the house.  Georges is somewhat of a nerdy kid and it is hard for him to meet new people, so when Safer and his sister Candy, two kids in his building invites him to be a part of his Spy Club he accepts. Throughout the story Georges and his mom communicates by using Scrabble-tiles. Georges’ first assignment as a spy is to spy on a man in their building. Georges begins to question the motives of those around him.  After discovering that Safer has lied about Mr. X, George is determined to confront him and the other kids who have been bullying him at school. Georges’ mom gets an infection and Georges and his dad goes to see mom in the hospital.  After dealing with their differences, Georges helps Safer deal with his own fears in life by making a list.

Liar & Spy is a great read for students in grades 4-7. The book has a theme of friendship, lies and truth that will help students doing a book study by making predictions based on clues in the text.  This story deals with issues that young adults might deal with in school, such as bullying, and standing up for themselves.

Recommend follow up reading Diary of a 6th Grade Ninja by Marcus Emerson and Spy Factory #1: My School is a Spy Factory by Steven Stickler

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