
Blakemore, Megan Frazer. The Spy Catchers of Maple Hill. 7 CDs. 8 hrs. Recorded Bks. 2014. $45. ISBN 9781490627595. Playaway, digital download.
Gr 4-6–The year is 1953, and fifth grader Hazel Kaplansky is a girl in search of a mystery. When rumors begin flying that the Russians are operating a spy ring right in her small New England town, Hazel knows she is the girl for the case. She’s the smartest, most relentless person she knows, and she’s ready to put her surveillance skills to the test. Her number-one suspect is the mysterious Mr. Jones, the recently hired gravedigger in her parents’ cemetery. With the help of the new boy at school, Samuel, Hazel sets out to expose the truth. Narrator Meredith Orlow perfectly captures the spirit of this Cold War–era story, portraying neighbors turning against neighbors and whispers becoming rumors and lies. Orlow uses distinct voices for everyone, allowing each character’s unique personality to shine. The result is a twisting, turning period mystery featuring a dynamic heroine in search of answers during an unsettling time in American history.
–Anne Bozievich, Friendship Elementary School, Glen Rock, PA
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