Max in the Land of Lies

Gidwitz, Adam. Max in the Land of Lies. Book 2 of the Operation Kinderspion. 2025. 320p. ISBN 9780593112113.

Max Bretzfeld  escaped from Germany and Hitler's grasp. Now after some intensive training and with the world at war and Germany currently winning, Max returns to his native Berlin, not as a refugee, but as a British spy. His official mission, sanctioned by his British spymasters, is to infiltrate the Funkhaus, the heart of Nazi radio and propaganda. This dangerous assignment requires Max to use his radio expertise to gather intelligence and disrupt the Nazi propaganda machine.

However, Max harbors a secret, personal mission that he keeps hidden from his spymasters: the search for his missing parents. Driven by a desperate hope to reunite with his family, Max is willing to risk everything, even his own safety and the success of his official mission, to find them amidst the chaos and danger of Nazi Germany. Can Max stay one step ahead of the Nazis who are hunting him down?

Max's dual objectives create a complex and suspenseful narrative, as he balances his loyalty to his new country with his unwavering commitment to his family. The character of Max is realistic and he makes mistakes like all middle schoolers. But he's also conscious of the risks and every step he takes gets him closer being discovered. Fans of historical novels will enjoy this well researched book and will appreciate this glimpse into a totalitarian society.