This is one of those fun “You Choose” books in which the reader is offered a series of choices on each page and when the choice is made and the appropriate next page is selected, the story changes to reflect the reader’s decision. Part of a publisher’s series also featuring war spies of the American Revolution, Civil War and World War I themes, this one is exciting right from the start because the readers gets to role-play being a World War II spy and can steal secret information from the Nazis that may well affect the outcome of the war. The book can be read numerous times and a different ending can be achieved with each reading. Along the way, a great deal of history is learned in an effortless and engaging manner. A bit more historical context would have been helpful for those who are not using supplemental educational materials but for those who already have some background about the subject, this is a fun educational experience for a would-be secret agent. It is an easy-reading book, designed for a reluctant reader and can be used as recreational reading at home or can be incorporated into classroom activities to provide a break from the usual teaching methods. Recommended for ages 8 – 10.
Michal Hoschander Malen is the editor of Jewish Book Council’s young adult and children’s book reviews. A former librarian, she has lectured on topics relating to literacy, run book clubs, and loves to read aloud to her grandchildren.