#5 in Spy School Series
Spy School Secret Service
on Goodreads (9,136)
What’s inside...
In this fifth installment of the Spy School series, Ben Ripley is on a mission to save the president of the United States from an assassination attempt. After a routine mission goes wrong, Ben is assigned to protect the president's unpredictable son. Along the way, he uncovers a plot that puts the nation's leader in danger and it's up to him to stop it.
Character compass
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make Ben a good spy? Can you think of any ways you're similar to him?
How do friendships play a role in Ben's adventures in 'Spy School Secret Service'? Why are they important?
If you could create a gadget for a spy mission, what would it be and how would it help on a mission?
What did you think about the book's setting in Washington, D.C.? What impact did it have on the story?
How did Ben change from the beginning to the end of the book? What caused these changes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story’s scenarios, bolstering their critical thinking and empathy. Discuss the moral decisions characters face to better understand your child's perspective on right and wrong. Share your thoughts on teamwork and trust, highlighting these as important values both in the book and in real life. Utilize visitable landmarks or historical facts mentioned in the book as educational pivot points. Finally, foster a fun atmosphere by perhaps suggesting to act out some favorite scenes together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout 'Spy School Secret Service', the protagonist, Ben Ripley, works alongside fellow spies to accomplish missions. The teamwork aspect is highlighted by their ability to combine diverse skill sets to solve complex problems.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities at school or in sports, learning to value each person’s contribution and working together towards a common goal.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Explanation: The book showcases the characters employing critical thinking and problem-solving skills frequently to navigate challenges and uncover secrets. This is particularly evident in their strategizing ways to infiltrate enemy ranks.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to think strategically in their daily challenges, whether it be resolving conflicts with peers or tackling difficult school assignments effectively.
Example Lesson: Loyalty and Trust
Explanation: Ben Ripley faces situations where loyalty to his friends and his agency are tested. His decisions are guided by trust and commitment to his team.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being reliable and trustworthy individuals in friendships and how loyalty can strengthen relationships.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and Resilience
Explanation: In 'Spy School Secret Service', characters often find themselves in unexpected situations requiring quick adaptation and resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being flexible and bouncing back from setbacks, equipping them with a resilient mindset that benefits their emotional and psychological growth.
Example Lesson: Ethical Decision Making
Explanation: The moral dilemmas faced by the characters, highlight the complexity of making the right choice, especially under pressure.
Real-World Application: It imbues in children the ability to discern right from wrong and encourages them to think about the consequences of their actions before making decisions.