57 pages • 1 hour read
Rebecca SteadLiar & Spy
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2012A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Liar & Spy by Rebecca Stead, seventh-grader Georges moves to a Brooklyn apartment and joins a spy club led by Safer, a neighbor investigating a mysterious tenant. As Georges navigates his new environment, he confronts bullying at school and copes with personal challenges at home, forming unlikely friendships and discovering the power of teamwork in the process. The novel depicts bullying and its cumulative effects.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Liar & Spy by Rebecca Stead deftly explores themes of friendship, identity, and family, receiving praise for its engaging plot and relatable characters. Critics commend Stead's nuanced storytelling and emotional depth. However, some readers note that the pacing may be slow at times, and the conclusion feels somewhat abrupt. Overall, a thought-provoking read suitable for middle-grade audiences.
Who Should Read Liar & Spy?
Readers who enjoy middle-grade fiction with themes of friendship, mystery, and self-discovery will delight in Liar & Spy by Rebecca Stead. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Frindle by Andrew Clements will appreciate the story's clever narrative and emotional depth. Suitable for ages 9-12, it's ideal for those who love subtle, character-driven plots.
RecommendedReading Age
9-12yearsLexile Level
670LBook Details
Children's Literature
Realistic Fiction
Mystery / Crime Fiction
Bullying
Relationships: Friendship
Relationships: Mothers
Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice