Liar & Spy by Rebecca SteadMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
It's not often that I read a contemporary middle grade novel that is as compelling as a fantasy, or an adventure, or even a historical story. Contemporary stories are so challenging because they reflect life--they reflect us, in all our flawed intricacies. And that's a very difficult thing to portray. But Rebecca Stead delivers with Liar & Spy.
This novel is truly one of the best contemporary middle grade stories that I have read. Georges(the "s" is silent) is a seventh grader who moves into a Brooklyn apartment building and becomes acquainted with a boy named Safer, his upstairs neighbor, who also happens to be a self-appointed spy. George becomes Safer's right-hand man, and together they track the movements of Mr. X, a mysterious neighbor who is perpetually dressed in black. But as Safer asks more of Georges, Georges questions how far he should go in the name of friendship.
Written with wit and unflinching realism, Georges's story is one that resonates long after you've finished reading the book. Stead sprinkles in so many delightful truths and that I often found myself stopping to read her sentences twice. The supporting characters are well-rounded and engaging, and the setting is special for me, having lived in a Brooklyn walk-up for three years. But overall, what Stead provides in Liar & Spy is an honest portrayal of friendship and family. She explores the ties that bind us, and the lies that tear us up--and in the end, she tells a story that anyone, young or old, can relate to and appreciate.
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I read this recently and really enjoyed it! Definitely worth a read.
ReplyDeleteNice review. I couldn't agree more. I also really liked this book.
ReplyDeleteThis has been a tough sell for middle school students. They are not forthcoming as to why, so it's hard to tell.
ReplyDeleteFrom what I have read in some other reviews, perhaps the messages in this book are too subtle for most MG readers. The voice isn't off the hook, and the action certainly isn't over the top. So Maybe it's just too subtle overall, when the trend right now is towards such big splashy characters, voice, and plot. Sometimes, I wonder if the MG books I really love (and often prize winners) are not more suited for the adult audience than the MG audience . . .
DeleteI've had the same experience with students -- but I loved the book myself so much. WHEN YOU REACH ME seems to be much more popular with kids, yet it, too, appeals to a more precocious kind of reader.
DeleteLoved your review -- I feel the same way!
I read this and thougt it was great. Sad that kids aren't interested, as Ms. Yingling points out. I often wonder about how often it happens that an adult will like a book so much but the intended reader doesn't.
ReplyDeleteMost excellent pick for MMGM. This is one of my favourite reads this year! The trick becomes book talking into kids hands as Karen points out.
ReplyDeleteWhile I didn't find it quite as mesmerizing as WHEN YOU REACH ME, I still enjoyed this book very much. (Still puzzled about one thing, though. Whose laundry was it? I must have missed something in there).
ReplyDeleteGreat review. I loved When You Reach Me so I should check this out.
ReplyDeleteI've been wanting to read this. Your review just reinforced that want. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThis is a book that I must read. It sounds interesting and I really enjoyed hearing what you had to say. I am curious as to why MGers aren't picking it up... Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDelete~Jess