Table of Contents
About The Book
“Combines Alex Rider’s espionage skills with a huge dose of the sarcasm of Artemis Fowl.” —School Library Journal
Can an undercover nerd become a superstar agent? In the first book in the New York Times bestselling Spy School series, Ben Ripley sure hopes so—and his life may depend on it!
Ben Ripley may only be in middle school, but he’s already pegged his dream job: CIA or bust. Unfortunately for him, his personality doesn’t exactly scream “secret agent.” In fact, Ben is so awkward, he can barely get to school and back without a mishap. Because of his innate nerdiness, Ben is not surprised when he is recruited for a magnet school with a focus on science—but he’s entirely shocked to discover that the school is actually a front for a junior CIA academy. Could the CIA really want him?
Can an undercover nerd become a superstar agent? In the first book in the New York Times bestselling Spy School series, Ben Ripley sure hopes so—and his life may depend on it!
Ben Ripley may only be in middle school, but he’s already pegged his dream job: CIA or bust. Unfortunately for him, his personality doesn’t exactly scream “secret agent.” In fact, Ben is so awkward, he can barely get to school and back without a mishap. Because of his innate nerdiness, Ben is not surprised when he is recruited for a magnet school with a focus on science—but he’s entirely shocked to discover that the school is actually a front for a junior CIA academy. Could the CIA really want him?
Product Details
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (March 6, 2012)
- Length: 304 pages
- ISBN13: 9781442421844
- Ages: 8 - 12
- Lexile ® 740L The Lexile reading levels have been certified by the Lexile developer, MetaMetrics®
Raves and Reviews
"Twists and turns in the plot keep readers guessing until the very end. The story, over-the-top funny, combines Alex Rider’s espionage skills with a huge dose of the sarcasm of Artemis Fowl. Subtle digs at the stuffiness of a federal agency and the romance of spying abound."
– School Library Journal
" This romp is a great choice for reluctant readers of either gender."
– Booklist
Awards and Honors
- South Carolina Picture Book Award Nominee
- Nutmeg Book Award Nominee (CT)
- Colorado Children's Book Award Master List
- Volunteer State Book Award Nominee (TN)
- Virginia Readers' Choice Award List
- CBC Best Children's Books of the Year
- Edgars Award Nominee
Resources and Downloads
High Resolution Images
- Book Cover Image (jpg): Spy School eBook 9781442421844
- Author Photo (jpg): Stuart Gibbs Photograph by Dashiell Gibbs(0.1 MB)
Any use of an author photo must include its respective photo credit