Target: Ben Ripley
It is hard to go wrong with Stuart Gibbs’s Spy School series. The books are filled with action and comedy that keep the pages turning. We are now at book ten, and Spy School: Project X was exactly what I expected.
Any student will tell you that finals is a stressful time, but it is even more so at Spy School. After all, not only do you have to pass your classes, but failing could lead to serious pain. Ben Ripley has something extra to worry about since he’s been summoned to the principal’s office. Fortunately, he is running a little late since, while he is on the way, the principal’s office explodes. Another attack confirms it – assassins have targeted Ben. Fortunately, Ben’s friend, Erica Hale, knows exactly who is behind it. Unfortunately, that means a trip to find and confront this villain with danger around every corner. Will Ben make it?
Yes, these books are aimed at middle schoolers. And they will absolutely love the book for the same reasons I did. But don’t let that keep you from reading this book yourself. It is such fun from start to finish. And you can always say you are reading it to make sure it is safe for the kids in your life to read. (Don’t worry, it is, but it makes a fantastic excuse.)
The action starts right away, and it never lets up. And, while there is plenty of action, the story makes sense. In other words, the action follows from the plot and doesn’t feel forced into the story. Granted, the plot is straight forward, but that doesn’t matter because you will be turning pages as quickly as possible.
The action doesn’t get in the way of the humor. In fact, quite often, the action leads to the humor. The action is purposely over the top in the best way possible, leading to some wonderfully funny moments. However, there was a line of dialogue that made me laugh the hardest in this book.
Even with all the action and the humor, there is still time for some good character development. No, not everyone gets that chance, but a couple of the characters definitely get a time in the spotlight and some good growth.
There are lots of references to events from earlier books in the series, however, the story here stands alone. You might not fully grasp the importance of everything that happen, but you will still enjoy the book if you jump in here.
This book left me anxious to find out what is next for Ben
and the rest of his friends. Whether you
are a new or a longtime fan of the series, you’ll enjoy Spy School: Project X.
Sounds like a terrific series. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteI've heard such great things about this series! I need to pick up the first book in this series for a read aloud.
ReplyDeleteI love this series but haven't had the chance to read this one. It sounds like a great story line full of what middle graders like in a story. Thanks for featuring it on this week's MMGM.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read the Spy School series. Great review. Is it too advanced for a third grader?
ReplyDeleteDepends on how well the third grader reads. I think an advanced third grader would do fine with it. But it's hard for me to judge since I really read these books for me.
DeleteI haven't read any of these. They do sound like a lot of fun. Thanks for your review.
ReplyDeleteSounds a great series with lots of kid appeal!
ReplyDeleteThis does sound like a fun series that kids wil love.
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