Common Sense Media Review
By Mary Eisenhart
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Plot-twisting, heart-wrenching, unforgettable WWII story.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 6 parent reviews
Based on 14 kid reviews
Kids say that the book offers a captivating dual perspective on WWII through the lives of two young female protagonists, showcasing themes of friendship, bravery, and the harsh realities of war, though it can be slow at times. Many appreciate its emotional depth and unexpected twists, while acknowledging its mature content, making it more suitable for older teens rather than younger readers.
- strong characters
- friendship theme
- emotional depth
- mature content
- slow pacing
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
It's 1943, and two teen girls become best friends when their unlikely skills prove valuable to the Allied war effort. As the book begins, the two of them, pilot Maddie and spy "Queenie," have been forced to crash-land in France. Queenie, having fallen into the hands of the Gestapo and been tortured for weeks, strikes a bargain -- information for a less painful death -- and writes for the Nazis the story of Maddie, herself, and their adventures. As the plot unfolds, nothing and nobody are entirely what they seem.
Is It Any Good?
Sure to land on many best-of-2012 lists, CODE NAME VERITY is well written, intricately plotted, full of surprises, and as harrowing as it is compelling. Maddie, Queenie, and some of the supporting characters are unforgettable and will stay with readers long after the last chapter has been read.
With a wealth of historic and literary detail, as well as an unblinking look at bad things happening to good people and heroic cleverness in the face of hopelessness, Code Name Verity will appeal to many adult readers as well as teens.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about moral dilemmas: Does Maddie do the right thing?
How do you think Code Name Verity compares with other war stories you've read or seen on film?
How do you feel about espionage? Is it justified or not, depending on the rightness of your cause?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Historical Fiction
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship , History
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Hyperion Book CH
- Publication date : May 15, 2012
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 17
- Number of pages : 352
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : ALA Best and Notable Books
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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