Modern Spies

Gr 6 Up—These books offer glimpses into intrigue and subversion from the Revolutionary War to modern times, providing details about why military operations and governments need spies. In Revolutionary War, readers learn that George Washington needed to know what resources his enemies had, for example, and why individuals such as Benedict Arnold might have switched their loyalties. Historical facts, interesting images, and brief bios of known spies offer a taste of 18th-century espionage. Civil War offers much of the same in the way of pre-technology spying, but readers also learn about female spies such as Pauline Cushman, an actress who infilitrated the Confederacy. In World War II, technology and celebrity begin to play a bigger role. Famous faces, such as Josephine Baker, worked on behalf of the French government against the Nazis. More and more women became involved in espionage, and used their charms on many men who were more than willing to spill their secrets. Modern Spies focuses on the Cold War territories, the Middle East, and China. These overviews might spark a thirst for more knowledge rather than quenching one, but are interesting introductions to the topic. All of the books have photos, reproductions, or illustrations on every page. Better for browsing than for reports.—Sarah Knutson, American Canyon Middle School, CA