Reviews

Max in the House of Spies: A Tale of World War II by Adam Gidwitz

jstimmins's review against another edition

4.0

Well I finished this not-brief book in one day, so that’s an endorsement. I’m still debating with myself whether the book will be read in a K-4 library — the themes are obviously quite advanced but the humor of Stein and Berg leaven the action in a way that doesn’t feel disrespectful.

This is my third book of the summer telling a story of Naziism and the Shoah for children. The spy element and cover of this one may make it more appealing for young people choosing books for themselves, but I don’t think that lessens the truths conveyed about Naziism and Anti-semitism.

lyonbritandthebookshelf's review against another edition

5.0

My first Adam Gidwitz!!!

I’m a huge fan of middle grade historical fiction… MAX IN THE HOUSE OF SPIES: A TALE OF WORLD WAR II immediately captured my attention. The mashup of genres was a pleasant surprise and worked really well in sharing Max’s adventure. A unique way to visit this historic time. The splash of magical realism gave humor and insight to what Max was feeling adding just a touch more than your average HF read.

Get prepared to want book 2 it ends suddenly but will have you excited for the next release!

Thank you PRH Audio

kayscr33klibrarian's review against another edition

4.0

This book gives a unique perspective about spies during WWII. One must suspend disbelief that a child would be used as a spy but the training and preparation was interesting. Max sure has a creative mind.

I struggled where to shelf this in my generified library because there is an element of fantasy to it. Max has two mythical creatures, Berg and Stein, on his shoulder. They were a highlight in the story for me. They added comical relief and perspective.

I'm excited to see where this story goes.

2024 52-Book Club Challenge #19 A buddy read (Alissa & DaNae)

jennyc2323's review against another edition

5.0

It’s WWII and 11-year-old Max is sent from Berlin to London for his own safety. But what about the safety of his parents? Turns out England isn’t welcoming to Jewish adults. So, all Max wants is to get back home to his family, even if he has to go as a spy for the British! First, he has to prove he’s smart and resourceful, which is easy because he’s both those things, but then spy training becomes much harder than he anticipated. And along the way, a lesson on colonialism leads to the understanding that the good guys he’s now working for weren’t always the good guys. But there are moments of humor too, and a sprinkling of magic just for fun. From learning to outwit a dead letter box to parachuting into wartime France, readers will want to go on this amazing adventure right along with Max.

megpancoast's review against another edition

adventurous emotional informative tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

awitiak's review against another edition

adventurous emotional informative medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

literacyluminary's review against another edition

5.0

To find his way back home to his family in Germany during WWII, Max Bretzfeld, with a kobold named Berg on one shoulder and a dybbuk named Stein on the other, sets out to do the impossible--become a British spy.

Bloody brilliant. Absolutely loved it.

Because my children are grown, I don’t read middle grade fiction anymore. But Gidwitz’s book, The Inquisitor’s Tale, is one of my favorite books ever. So when I saw he had a new release, I knew I had to read it.

And if you’ve been following the British Royal drama across the pond and the Stephen Colbert Show, you’d know how to spell Chumley.

jhen314's review against another edition

4.0

When Max is sent to England without his parents so that he will be safe from Nazi persecution, he can only think about getting back. Going back to Berlin would likely mean certain death, but he feels that he has to save his parents. When he sees the possibility of being a spy for MI6, he is convinced that spying is his way back. But "home" has now become "enemy territory" and he must be practically perfect in his training to even be considered. Showing off his skills at manipulating radios won't be near enough and he will be pushed to his limits. But will it be worth it in the end?

________

I wasn't sure about a WWII book with fantasy elements, but I am now convinced that this book wouldn't be what it is without Stein and Berg. They offer just the right amount of comedy relief for a book obviously tackles heavy subjects and time periods. Yet they don't detract from the moral questions Max must ponder. A near perfect mix.

bookswithbec's review

adventurous funny mysterious medium-paced

3.5

jaimiestarshine's review against another edition

adventurous emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0