About This Book
Rebecca Stead's 'Liar and Spy' follows Georges, a seventh grader grappling with significant life changes: a family move to a Brooklyn apartment, his father's struggling business, and his mother's demanding nursing shifts. Feeling isolated and picked on at school, Georges finds an unlikely connection with Safer, an older, eccentric boy who enlists him in a 'spy' mission to observe a mysterious upstairs neighbor. The book beautifully explores themes of friendship, loyalty, honesty, and self-discovery, as Georges learns to navigate complex social dynamics and stand up for himself amidst family challenges. It's a poignant and thoughtful read for children aged 8-12.
When seventh grader Georges (the S is silent) moves into a Brooklyn apartment building, he meets Safer, a twelve-year-old coffee-drinking loner and self-appointed spy. Georges becomes Safer's first spy recruit. His assignment? Tracking the mysterious Mr. X, who lives in the apartment upstairs. But as Safer becomes more demanding, Georges starts to wonder: how far is too far to go for your only friend?
Concepts
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Georges's move to a new apartment building affect him? Have you ever had to move or start somewhere new?
2
What kind of friend is Safer? Do you think he's a good influence on Georges? Why or why not?
3
Georges faces bullying at school. How does he handle it, and what advice would you give him?
4
The book is called 'Liar and Spy.' Who do you think is the liar, and who is the spy? Can someone be both?
5
How do Georges's family challenges, like his dad's business and his mom's work, impact him? How does he show resilience?
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