Sponsored*
The Children’s Book Review
Spies, Lies, and Disguise: The Daring Tricks and Deeds that Won World War II
Written by Jennifer Swanson
Illustrated by Kevin O’Malley
Age Range: 9-11
Hardcover: 144 pages
Publisher: Bloomsbury Children’s Books (November 26, 2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1681197791
What to expect: Non-Fiction, World War II, Secret Agents
Does knowing something is top secret immediately pique your interest? In Spies, Lies, and Disguise, author Jennifer Swanson takes readers behind-the-scenes to explore some genuinely astonishing World War II exploits and accomplishments.
This is not your typical history book, but a unique offering to engage and entertain readers on the less talked about historical events that took place (and those that almost took place) as the Allies worked to outsmart their enemies and end the war. There’s plenty here to hook reluctant readers—cyanide pills, dead guys with pockets stuffed with fake plans to trick the enemy, the Night Witches (a group of female pilots from the Soviet Union), poisoned cows, and mentions of British agent Ian Fleming of James Bond fame. From a Major League Baseball player turned secret agent, to a famous dancer joining the French Resistance, to Native American languages used as secret code, the daring and brave acts of many women and men alike will surely surprise even the most well-read non-fiction and history buffs.
Lots of mixed media breaks up the conversational text—illustrations, photographs, fascinating fact boxes, as well as witty wanted signs at the beginning of each chapter describe who may have held these daring roles. The well-researched and factual content of Spies, Lies, and Disguise make it an excellent choice for any kids wanting to put an exciting spin on a school history project. The bibliography, index, and links to useful websites for further information are a bonus.
Risk takers and daring kids will undoubtedly be fascinated by the covert rules, elaborate plans, and brave deeds made by so many courageous men and women. Spies, Lies, and Disguise could be just the book to hook a reader into the history genre.
Buy the Book
About the Author
Science Rocks! And so, do Jennifer Swanson’s books. She is the award-winning author of over 40 nonfiction books for children, mostly about science and technology. Jennifer’s love of STEM began when she started a science club in her garage at the age of 7. While no longer working from the garage, Jennifer’s passion for science and technology resonates in all her books but especially, BRAIN GAMES (NGKids) and SUPER GEAR: Nanotechnology and Sports Team Up (Charlesbridge), Astronaut-Aquanaut, and Save the Crash-test Dummies. Her books have received many accolades including the Green Earth Book Honor Award, a Florida Book Award, and multiple California Reading Association awards, and National Science Teaching BEST STEM awards.
An accomplished and exciting speaker, Jennifer has presented at National NSTA conferences, the Highlights Foundation, the Atlanta Science Festival, the World Science Festival in NYC and the Library of Congress’ National Book Festival.
A huge science geek, Jennifer encourages kids (of all ages) to engage their curiosity and DISCOVER the Science all around them! You can learn more about her and book her for speaking engagements and school visits: https://jenniferswansonbooks.
Dedicated Reviews allow authors and illustrators to gain prompt visibility for their work. This non-biased review of “Spies, Lies, and Disguise: The Daring Tricks and Deeds that Won World War II” was sponsored* by Jennifer Swanson. Learn more about getting a book review …
