Spy School the Graphic Novel
#1 of 4 in Spy School Graphic Novels Series
What’s inside...
In this graphic novel adaptation of Gibbs' popular series, Ben Ripley must balance middle school life and secret spy training. With a special talent for technology, Ben is recruited by a secret spy school where he must navigate through danger and deceit to uncover the truth. Can an undercover nerd become a superstar secret agent? Now a graphic novel! Ben Ripley may only be in middle school, but he’s already pegged his dream job: CIA or bust. Unfortunately for him, his personality doesn’t exactly scream “secret agent.” In fact, Ben is so awkward, he can barely get to school and back without a mishap. Because of his innate nerdiness, Ben is not surprised when he is recruited for a magnet school with a focus on science—but he’s entirely shocked to discover that the school is actually a front for a junior CIA academy. Could the CIA really want him? Actually, no. There’s been a case of mistaken identity—but that doesn’t stop Ben from trying to morph into a supercool undercover agent, the kind that always gets the girl. And through a series of hilarious misadventures, Ben realizes he might actually be a halfway decent spy…if he can survive all the attempts being made on his life!
Character compass
Ben Ripley
Zoe Zibbell
Erica Hale
Alexander Hale
Murray Hill
Discussion points
What do you think makes Ben a good spy? Can you think of qualities you share with him?
How did Ben's friendships impact his journey at spy school? How do you see your friendships influencing your own adventures?
What are some challenges Ben faced and how did he overcome them? How would you handle similar situations?
How does the setting of the spy school add to the excitement of the story? If you could design a spy school, what special features would it have?
What lesson did you learn from Ben's experiences that you think is important to remember?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by sharing your own thoughts about the book's theme and characters to open up a two-way conversation.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Ben's world at the spy school, asking how they might feel or react in similar situations.
Draw parallels between the teamwork and problem-solving skills displayed in the book and their everyday life to make the discussion applicable to their own experiences.
Use the book’s settings and scenarios as prompts for creative, extension activities like drawing their own spy gadget or writing a secret code.
Reinforce the values and lessons from the book, highlighting why they matter and how they can be useful in real-life contexts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout 'Spy School the Graphic Novel,' the characters must work together to solve puzzles and overcome challenges. This necessity for teamwork is a central theme as the protagonist, Ben Ripley, learns the importance of relying on others and combining strengths to accomplish common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in their daily interactions, learning to cooperate with classmates in group projects or with friends during team sports, understanding that working together often leads to better results than working alone.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Ben Ripley, often faced with complex situations and mysteries, uses his wit and intelligence to think critically and solve problems. This encourages readers to see the value of taking a moment to think through a problem rather than jumping to conclusions.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children approach their own challenges more thoughtfully, whether in solving a difficult math problem, figuring out the rules of a new game, or resolving misunderstandings with peers.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: In 'Spy School the Graphic Novel,' the main character encounters several setbacks in his spy missions, but he persists and never gives up. This illustrates the importance of perseverance in the face of difficulties.
Real-World Application: In everyday life, children can learn from this by continuing to pursue their goals, whether in academic, artistic, or athletic endeavors, even when they encounter obstacles or failures.
Example Lesson: Importance of honesty
Explanation: As a spy, Ben Ripley learns the hard way that honesty is crucial in building trust and maintaining relationships. The storyline shows the complications that arise from deceit.
Real-World Application: Children can see the importance of being truthful in their interactions with family and friends, understanding that honesty builds trust and strengthens relationships.
Example Lesson: Understanding diverse perspectives
Explanation: The graphic novel introduces characters from various backgrounds and with different skills, highlighting how understanding and respecting different perspectives is crucial in espionage and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This can be applied to a child’s interactions at school and in their community, promoting empathy and respect for differing opinions and backgrounds, enriching their social interactions and widening their worldview.