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Spies

By Michael Frayn
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3.55 goodreads logo

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Check link for latest rating. ( 6,367 ratings, 507 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Spies by Michael Frayn is a captivating exploration of childhood and memory set against the backdrop of wartime Britain. The story follows two young boys who, inspired by a mix of imagination and intrigue, embark on a quest to uncover secrets within their seemingly ordinary neighbourhood. As they delve deeper into their investigations, they encounter truths that challenge their perceptions of family, loyalty, and the boundaries of childhood innocence.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by how childhood games and imagination can blur lines with reality, uncovering secrets in a seemingly quiet suburban setting. This novel cleverly explores the themes of memory and perception, set against the backdrop of wartime Britain. It's a compelling read for those who appreciate intricate storytelling and character development.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

The classic wartime coming of age novel from a well loved writer.

Spies by Michael Frayn is the classic wartime coming of age novel from one of Britain's best-loved writers.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In the quiet cul-de-sac where Keith and Stephen live, the only immediate signs of the Second World War are the blackouts at night and a single random bombsite.

But the two boys start to suspect all is not what it seems when one day Keith announces a disconcerting discovery: the Germans have infiltrated his own family.

And when the secret underground world they have dreamed up emerges from the shadows, they find themselves engulfed in mysteries far deeper and more painful than they had bargained for.

Spies by Michael Frayn explores this intricate interplay between reality and imagination, bringing to life a world fraught with danger and intrigue.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Spies by Michael Frayn is praised for its beautifully woven narrative set during World War II, capturing the nostalgic yet haunting complexities of childhood memories. Readers often commend its elegant prose and meticulous character development, highlighting the blend of suspense and introspection that compels the audience to reflect on the blurred lines between imagination and reality. Critics appreciate its evocative depiction of a small English suburb and the intense emotional depth that transcends a typical coming-of-age story.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780571268856

Publisher: Faber & Faber

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 05 May 2011

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Faber & Faber

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 14.0mm

Width: 126.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 197g

Pages: 240

Collections

Classic Fiction Classic General Fiction Fiction General Fiction Literary Fiction Michael Frayn

About the Author

Michael Frayn was born in London in 1933 and began his career as a journalist on the Guardian and the Observer. His novels include Towards the End of the Morning, The Trick of It and A Landing on the Sun. Headlong was shortlisted for the 1999 Booker Prize. His fifteen plays range from Noises Off to Copenhagen and most recently Afterlife. He is married to the biographer and critic, Claire Tomalin.

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    In the quiet cul-de-sac where Keith and Stephen live, the only immediate signs of the Second World War are the blackout at night and a single random bomb site. But the two boys start to suspect all is not as it seems when one day Keith announces a disconcerting discovery: the Germans have infiltrated his own family. And when the...
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