57 pages • 1 hour read
Liar & Spy
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Book Brief
208
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 2010s
2012
Middle grade
9-12 years
670L
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.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Heartwarming
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
27,732 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
27,732 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Safer
Safer
An intelligent and imaginative 12-year-old boy who lives in Georges’s apartment building. He is known for his fearfulness and tends to stay within the building engaging in creative pursuits.
Georges’s Father
Georges’s Father
An unnamed architect who is present throughout the novel and offers support to Georges. He represents a balance between appreciating life’s big picture and addressing daily issues.
Georges’s Mother (Sara)
Georges’s Mother (Sara)
A nurse who is characterized by her positive outlook, urging Georges to focus on the big picture in life. She emphasizes positivity even in challenging situations.
208
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 2010s
2012
Middle grade
9-12 years
670L
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