Common Sense Media Review
By Darienne Stewart
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Spy-kid series kicks off with goofy plot, high-tech fun.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In real life, Neil Andertol is an underachieving target for bullies. But, online, he's famous as ManofNeil, a contender to take the top spot in the online jet-piloting game Chameleon. Real and virtual reality abruptly become enmeshed when Neil is snatched off the street and taken to an Air Force base. He's one of 12 top gamers recruited to rescue two pilots and recover the top-secret Chameleon jet. To pull off the mission, Neil will have to deal with his online archrival, an island populated by ostriches, and a vengeful boy bent on being the most important game developer ever.
Is It Any Good?
THE NERDY DOZEN, debut author Jeff Miller's first book in a new series, is a campy, over-the-top adventure that's well suited to reluctant readers and newcomers to the spy-kid genre. It's clumsily constructed, with flabby writing, hammy characters, and plot holes big enough to fly a jet through. Kids who don't mind the bumpy going will enjoy the silliness, and fans of online games will enjoy Neil's dream-come-true story. The best scenes put Neil at the controls, whether it's in front of a screen or in a cockpit. Each of the Nerdy Dozen previously played solo at home, but when the stakes are high they need to forge real connections and work together.
Parents might want to use this as an opportunity to review tips for staying safe online, particularly when it comes to online gaming.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what happens when Neil's online life collides with "real-world" life. What remains true, online and off? What changes?
Why are the teens considered "nerdy"? (Learn more about media stereotypes.)
What steps can you take to maintain your privacy and stay safe online?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Adventure
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Harper
- Publication date : June 10, 2014
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 304
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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