DNF. ( )

Strong middle-grade read. Enough suspense to keep me interested—around the Red Scare and FBI intrigue. The stakes felt high because of how the author wove the history and set the era's scene. ( )

This is a great discussion book for teens or tweens. I know that bullying is talked about a great deal, but this book brings a different perspective on the word bully. To be pegged a traitor and then ostracized by everyone, Pete has to face different hardships everyday. When his best friend, Kat seems to ignore him also, he doesn’t give up. Pete stands his ground and rises above the suspicion. What would you do if you were in Pete’s shoes? What if you were Kat? Teen or tween book club book-yes! ( )

Twelve-year-old Pete Collison is isolated from his friends and class activities when rumors quickly spread that Pete's dad is a Commie (Communist). Moreover, a FBI is keeping tabs on him.With no one to turn to, Pete starts his own investigation;imitating his idol, Sam Spade, Pete collects clues to determine who the Communist informant is. This book is a great tool for both history and literary instruction. Specifically, this book can be used to discuss the events that occured during Communism, as well as focusing on predicting. Due to it's historical content, this book is likely intended for 5th to 7th graders. Personally, I enjoyed this book because it was a mystery book and as a series the characters can embark on more adventures. ( )