Surprising Spies

Praise

★ “Photographs and maps help to illuminate each individual, allowing readers to develop a connection to each of the spies. The profiles seem to be carefully selected and curated, ensuring a balanced gender representation. Many different cultural groups are represented, including Hispanics, African Americans, Indians, and Native Americans. The men and women have unique backgrounds, including a magician, a safecracker, a musician, and a baseball player. Each compelling entry details what happened to the spies after the war. . . . An excellent addition to any collection about World War II.”—School Library Journal, Starred Review

“Ruelle provides interesting and sometimes suspenseful biographies of eight active, important, and often heroic spies who worked during World War II. . . . An engaging examination of the important although often unsung work of spies.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Although middle-grade readers may know little about the war, the book delivers a good deal of information in concise sidebars as well as individual narratives that offer drama, varied settings, and a gradually broadening perspective. The many archival photos and the relatively inclusive selection of featured spies enhance the book’s appeal, and Ruelle’s storytelling is consistently engaging. A lively addition to the history shelves.”—Booklist &

“Straightforward storytelling delineates the dangerous and innovative clandestine work of eight unexpected individuals. . . . A clear, age-appropriate introduction to spycraft and WWII history that may well pique interest in both topics.”—Publishers Weekly