Spy School

★ 9.72 / 7

Can a normal, average kid become a superstar secret agent? Maybe not, but it’ll be fun to watch him try!

Ben Ripley may only be in middle school, but he’s already pegged his dream job: C.I.A. 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 math skills, Ben isn't 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 C.I.A. academy. Could the C.I.A. 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!

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Updated 04/07/2025

Category: Middle Grade, Adventure, Mystery

Release date: March 6, 2012

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Stuart Gibbs

Stuart Gibbs is an author whose adventurous spirit shines through in every book he writes. Known for his captivating middle-grade and young adult novels, he blends humor, heart-pounding suspense, and clever wit in a way that makes his stories irresistible to readers of all ages. Whether he’s taking readers on wild escapades in his Spy School series or diving into the animal kingdom with his FunJungle books, Gibbs' unique voice and storytelling flair make him stand out in the crowded world of adventure fiction.

But before he became a full-time writer, Gibbs had quite the diverse career. A lover of the outdoors and all things thrilling, he’s done everything from researching capybaras (yes, the world’s largest rodents) to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. His adventurous streak doesn’t end there—he’s also cage-dived with great white sharks, swum with penguins in the Galapagos, and even faced down a charging elephant. These experiences have shaped his writing, where danger, excitement, and unforgettable characters come to life.

Gibbs’ career in entertainment began long before he turned to writing novels. He spent time in Hollywood working on scripts for animated films like Anastasia and Open Season 3, and contributed to TV projects for networks like Disney Channel and Nickelodeon. Yet, it wasn’t until he channeled his boundless curiosity and love of adventure into his books that he truly found his calling. His breakout series, Spy School, is a thrilling ride of action, espionage, and humor, which has captured the imaginations of young readers around the world.

Raised in the Washington D.C. area and later moving to Texas, Gibbs’ educational background in biology has also influenced the depth of his characters and the scientific underpinnings in his books. His diverse experiences, from the world of cinema to his outdoor exploits, all come together to give him a rich perspective that he weaves into his stories, ensuring they are both entertaining and intellectually engaging.

Now living in Los Angeles with his family, Stuart Gibbs continues to write with a passion that fuels both his books and his fans’ imaginations. His Spy School series remains a staple for adventure lovers, and with new books on the horizon—including the highly anticipated Spy School movie adaptation—Gibbs' storytelling journey is far from over. As he once said, “The best part about writing is that you never stop discovering something new.” And for readers, that discovery is something they’re eager to be a part of.

Spy School

In the Spy School series, the world of espionage is not all sleek gadgets and thrilling chases. For young genius Ben Ripley, it's a series of misadventures, unexpected twists, and constant learning—often in the most dangerous ways possible. What starts as a routine “tryout” for a prestigious school quickly spirals into a life-or-death game of spycraft. Ben, a socially awkward teen with a sharp mind, is thrust into a world of undercover agents, secret missions, and high-stakes intrigue, all while navigating the perils of middle school.