Publisher Description

"A wealth of information in an engaging package." — Kirkus Reviews

Ever since George Washington used them to help topple the British, spies and their networks have helped and hurt America at key moments in history. In this fascinating collection, Paul B. Janeczko probes examples from clothesline codes to surveillance satellites and cyber espionage. Colorful personalities, daring missions, the feats of the loyal, and the damage of traitors are interspersed with a look at the technological advances that continue to change the rules of gathering intelligence.
Back matter includes source notes, a bibliography, and an index.

Author Biography

Paul B. Janeczko speaks as an editor, anthologist, poet, and teacher in his many award-winning books for young readers. "Dirty Laundry Pile: Poems in Different Voices", a companion to "Hey, You!", was named a "Riverbank Review" Children's Book of Distinction and was a finalist for the Texas Bluebonnet Award. Paul B. Janeczko lives with his wife and daughter in Hebron, Maine.

Review

Janeczko manages to stay true to history while still keeping a lively tone.
—School Library Journal

A wealth of information in an engaging package that should find an enthusiastic audience, particularly among middle schoolers.
—Kirkus Reviews

With well-chosen subjects (including many women and African Americans who used their marginalized positions to gather information) and contagious enthusiasm for the spy world's 'tantalizing mysteries,' this makes a strong choice for both avid and reluctant readers alike.
—Booklist

Provides solid details along with fascinating snippets in an easy-to-follow text in which he tells stories about his subjects and the way they were trained…provides background details and places the role of spying more particularly within the context of American history and politics.
—VOYA

Will appeal to anyone who is interested in spies and espionage throughout the history of our country
—Library Media Connection

Janeczko's lively writing portrays history with all of the drama and flair of a top-notch spy novel.
—SLJ Teen

Review Quote

Janeczko manages to stay true to history while still keeping a lively tone. School Library Journal A wealth of information in an engaging package that should find an enthusiastic audience, particularly among middle schoolers. Kirkus Reviews With well-chosen subjects (including many women and African Americans who used their marginalized positions to gather information) and contagious enthusiasm for the spy world's itantalizing mysteries,' this makes a strong choice for both avid and reluctant readers alike. Booklist Provides solid details along with fascinating snippets in an easy-to-follow text in which he tells stories about his subjects and the way they were trainediprovides background details and places the role of spying more particularly within the context of American history and politics. VOYA Will appeal to anyone who is interested in spies and espionage throughout the history of our country Library Media Connection Janeczko's lively writing portrays history with all of the drama and flair of a top-notch spy novel. SLJ Teen

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