ALBERTI, Enigma

Young readers will admire Anna Strong's resourceful and courageous efforts to help the Patriot cause. In addition, readers will gain insight on multiple Revolutionary War issues: Loyalist and Patriot viewpoints on independence, the oppressive proximity of British soldiers in local communities, and George Washington's desperate need for secure, timely intelligence. Highly recommended.

Libraries may need to consider how to ensure the spycraft materials are returned with each use, as these materials are essential for decoding the clues. An engaging work of historical fiction that will entice young history buffs and reluctant readers.

A swift read with plenty of action, combined with a smart spy heroine, this title is a strong addition to most historical fiction collections (despite the possibility of losing the loose spy materials to eager spies in training).