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

5.0

This middle-grade story set during WWII softens tough topics through the use of humor.

After Kristallnacht, Max's parents knew they had to try to leave Germany, but no country would take adults. Thanks to the Kindertransport program, Max was able to leave Berlin to live with a family in England.

The novel focuses on how Max coped: leaving his country and family, living in a new home with strangers, learning to get along at a new school, getting proficient in a new language, and later dealing with the Blitz. Max's emotions feel authentic, and the book doesn't shy away from antisemitism--even in England.

Humor is provided by two spirits who live on Max's shoulders. They first appeared when Max was on the train from Berlin to the Netherlands. The Kobold and Dybbuk banter, make jokes, and are meant to create havoc. They, however, end up bolstering Max, giving him advice, and helping him feel less alone. 

When Max gets the chance to help England's war effort, he goes through spy training, in which he must perform a series of tasks--both physical and mental. 

While the UK didn't train 12-year-old spies, much of the book is, in fact, based on history. The book ends on a cliff-hanger, and I truly can't wait to read about Max's next adventures.

The physical book contains photos and an annotated bibliography. However, I recommend giving the audiobook a try. Euan Morton is fantastic. He's engaging, expressive, and dramatic; he delivers the humor with perfect timing; and his voices and accents feel spot-on. This audiobook deserves awards.

Thanks to Dutton Children's Books and PRH Audio for the review copies.