Common Sense Media Review
Great young sleuth helps kids be true to themselves.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 12 kid reviews
Kids say this book is both enjoyable and thought-provoking, making it a fun read for children around the ages of 9 to 11, but some reviewers express concerns over its themes of bullying, mean-spirited behavior, and inappropriate language, suggesting that parental guidance is necessary. While Harriet is seen as a relatable character, her actions—such as spying and writing hurtful notes—may not serve as the best example for young readers.
- parental guidance
- age appropriate
- relatable character
- mean behavior
- humor and creativity
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Harriet's in trouble when her classmates read about themselves in her secret notebook. When they start a Spy Catchers' Club -- and guess who's not invited to join -- Harriet turns to her nanny for help. Kids might not like the idea of Harriet writing about them, but they'll certainly enjoy reading what she has to say about everybody in her world!
Is It Any Good?
This book is honest in its portrayal of the desperation and loneliness Harriet feels -- first, when her nanny leaves her and, later, when her friends turn against her. Girls, in particular, will identify with Harriet's strong drive to be true to herself in this longtime children's favorite.
Best of all, while HARRIET THE SPY deals with tough problems, such as how to deal with peer rejection and how to carry on without a beloved friend, it also manages, thanks to author Louise Fitzhugh's keen sense of the ridiculous, to be cheerful and often hilarious. Readers may even be inspired to start keeping their own notebooks -- though they shouldn't be so zealous as she is.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the benefits of recording your thoughts and observations about the world around you in a journal that's meant for your eyes only. Are there things you'd write down on paper privately that you'd never say in public?
If someone did happen to find your notebook and read it, would there be things in it that might hurt other people? How would you explain your actions?
What other girl detective stories have you read? Why do you think they're so popular?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Humor
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Yearling Books
- Publication date : October 1, 1964
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 9 - 12
- Number of pages : 298
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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