George Washington's secret six The spies who saved America

Adapting their New York Times best-seller of the same title for young people, Kilmeade and Yaeger provide a detailed account of how George Washington's spy ring helped win the Revolutionary War. Short, quick-paced chapters re-create the tension as Washington realized the war would really be a battle of wits, and introduce the five unassuming men and one still-unnamed woman who stepped up to be his intelligence gatherers. They describe how the Culper Ring, as the spies came to be called, risked their lives to listen to and observe British tactics and get their findings into the hands of Washington. What will engage readers most are the spies' methods of transmission, from cryptography to invisible ink. Art from and inspired by the time period also add visuals of key individuals, places, and occurrences. Students with a keen interest in American history will delve right into this account; others may need background knowledge to keep up with the chain of events. For all readers, a concluding look at the significance of the Culper Ring is eye-opening.--Angela Leeper Copyright 2019 Booklist

This exciting middle-grade adaptation of the coauthors' adult book (of the same title) follows the breathless intrigue of a spy ring orchestrated by Washington during the American Revolution. In short illustrated chapters, level-appropriate prose detailing the tactics and subterfuge will thrill even reluctant nonfiction readers. Appendices include information about using invisible ink and alphabet codes. Timeline. Bib., ind. (c) Copyright 2019. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.