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Spy School Graphic Novels #2
Spy Camp: The Graphic Novel
The second book in the New York Times bestselling Spy School series continues in graphic novel form as aspiring spy Ben Ripley must spend his summer in top-secret training—and is thrown back into danger.
Ben Ripley is a middle schooler whose school is not exactly average—he’s spent the last year training to be a top-level spy and dodging all sorts of associated danger. So now that summer’s finally here, Ben would like to have some fun and relax. But that’s not going to happen during required spy survival training at a rustic wilderness camp, where SPYDER, an enemy spy organization, has infiltrated the spies’ ranks. Can Ben root out the enemy before it takes him out—for good?
Ben Ripley is a middle schooler whose school is not exactly average—he’s spent the last year training to be a top-level spy and dodging all sorts of associated danger. So now that summer’s finally here, Ben would like to have some fun and relax. But that’s not going to happen during required spy survival training at a rustic wilderness camp, where SPYDER, an enemy spy organization, has infiltrated the spies’ ranks. Can Ben root out the enemy before it takes him out—for good?
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2023
344 people are currently reading
431 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 15, 2023
This was always my favorite book in the regular Spy School series, so it was very exciting to find the graphic novel adaption at the bookstore. I love the full-color artwork, and the affordability, too. Graphic novels these days can be extremely expensive, but the Spy School graphic novel adaptations have been very reasonably priced so far.
The book itself is a fun adventure, and I enjoyed the storyline. It made me notstalgic for the first time I read this series, and I never wanted to finish Spy Camp. I just want to be able to continue; I wish I could start the graphic novel for Evil Spy School without having to wait! But knowing Stuart Gibbs and the fantastic job that's been done with these graphic novels so far, it will be well worth the wait.
The book itself is a fun adventure, and I enjoyed the storyline. It made me notstalgic for the first time I read this series, and I never wanted to finish Spy Camp. I just want to be able to continue; I wish I could start the graphic novel for Evil Spy School without having to wait! But knowing Stuart Gibbs and the fantastic job that's been done with these graphic novels so far, it will be well worth the wait.
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June 19, 2023i hate the drawing style
January 6, 2023
Copy provided by the publisher
This follows the same plot as the regular novel, which I reviewed in 2013:
Looking forward to a summer at home after his event filled year in Spy School, Ben is dismayed to find that he only gets a weekend at home, and must go to a wilderness survival camp for the summer, along with his classmates. Also dismaying is a note from SPYDER. The group eventually demands that he join them or die, and they send Murray Hill, who is supposed to be incarcerated, to encourage him. Ben's a good guy, though, and doesn't even consider it. Things quickly go south when he is at camp, but he has the help of the brilliant and talented (not to mention pretty) Erica Hale. Her father, Alex, is assigned to keep Ben safe; it's just too bad that Erica is more equipped to deal with the situation than the acclaimed spy! When the bus they are on gets highjacked by SPYDER, Ben, Erica and Alex escape into the wilderness and decide to figure out whether Murray is really in the juvenile detention center. That's just their first mistake-- SPYDER is four or five steps ahead of them at every turn, and it's clear that they are not really after Ben. The romp continues with lots of twists and turns, as well as a stint in a Civil War reenactment. The group manages to save the day... for now.
The graphic novel does try to work in all of the plot strings and character development, which makes this a more satisfying read than many graphic novel adaptations, but also makes for very, very tiny font. I wouldn't agree with the illustrator's assessment that his illustrations are "wonjy and misshapen"; there was nothing in his style that irritated me. The palette is a lot of muted greens and grays, which makes sense for the camp setting, but did give a bit of a murky feel to the book. I do love that the style of the original cover was preserved; I shelve my graphic novels alongside the originals, hoping to entice readers to continue the series beyond the second book.
The graphic novel is a great way to introduce this series to readers who might not otherwise pick it up, although I have also had a number of students who have read the entire series who go back to read the graphic novel version as a way to revisit the series without as big a time committment!
This follows the same plot as the regular novel, which I reviewed in 2013:
Looking forward to a summer at home after his event filled year in Spy School, Ben is dismayed to find that he only gets a weekend at home, and must go to a wilderness survival camp for the summer, along with his classmates. Also dismaying is a note from SPYDER. The group eventually demands that he join them or die, and they send Murray Hill, who is supposed to be incarcerated, to encourage him. Ben's a good guy, though, and doesn't even consider it. Things quickly go south when he is at camp, but he has the help of the brilliant and talented (not to mention pretty) Erica Hale. Her father, Alex, is assigned to keep Ben safe; it's just too bad that Erica is more equipped to deal with the situation than the acclaimed spy! When the bus they are on gets highjacked by SPYDER, Ben, Erica and Alex escape into the wilderness and decide to figure out whether Murray is really in the juvenile detention center. That's just their first mistake-- SPYDER is four or five steps ahead of them at every turn, and it's clear that they are not really after Ben. The romp continues with lots of twists and turns, as well as a stint in a Civil War reenactment. The group manages to save the day... for now.
The graphic novel does try to work in all of the plot strings and character development, which makes this a more satisfying read than many graphic novel adaptations, but also makes for very, very tiny font. I wouldn't agree with the illustrator's assessment that his illustrations are "wonjy and misshapen"; there was nothing in his style that irritated me. The palette is a lot of muted greens and grays, which makes sense for the camp setting, but did give a bit of a murky feel to the book. I do love that the style of the original cover was preserved; I shelve my graphic novels alongside the originals, hoping to entice readers to continue the series beyond the second book.
The graphic novel is a great way to introduce this series to readers who might not otherwise pick it up, although I have also had a number of students who have read the entire series who go back to read the graphic novel version as a way to revisit the series without as big a time committment!
July 30, 2024
Better than the first one!
August 31, 2023
A graphic novel adaptation of the 2nd Spy School book in which Ben goes to a special survival camp for spies in order to try and keep him safe from Spyder and Murray who are very tenacious in trying to recruit Ben. An epic bus ride, adventure through a Civil War reenactment, and trip to a juvie detention facility are all in store for Ben this summer. And he just wanted to go home and hang out with his best friend.
This is very true to the original, and even though I know it didn't have all the details of the original it, it didn't feel like anything major was missing. Still a fun, humorous, and exciting ride with Ben and gang.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. There are some perilous situations and one assumed death from a fall that is implied but not shown.
This is very true to the original, and even though I know it didn't have all the details of the original it, it didn't feel like anything major was missing. Still a fun, humorous, and exciting ride with Ben and gang.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. There are some perilous situations and one assumed death from a fall that is implied but not shown.
February 14, 2023
What worked:
The plot follows the same storyline as the second book in the Spy School series so it can be a nice introduction to the books, or a fun revisiting for loyal readers. You might want to read the novel first since graphic novels don’t have enough text to fully develop the characters. Ben is the intelligent main character being targeted by SPYDER, the evil spy organization, although he’s not sure why. He has a crush on Erica, a highly skilled classmate at the CIA spy school, and she always manages to pop up and save Ben from perilous dangers. Her father contributes humor since his reputation as a decorated agent is highly exaggerated. He loves sharing tales of his greatness while Erica rolls her eyes and points out the truth and his numerous flaws.
The nice thing about graphic novels is the colorful illustrations help readers visualize the story and characters. Even if you’ve already read the previously published novels in the series, readers can now get a clear picture of what Ben, Erica, and Spy Camp look like. I especially appreciate seeing Woodchuck, the camp director, dressed in his Tarzan-like loin cloth to show he’s a survival expert. Illustrations replace text in many scenes which allows the plot to move more swiftly. This feature is especially appropriate and appreciated when characters are sneaking around or quickly moving from place to place. It helps readers get to confrontations, discoveries, and plot twists faster.
Ben is an unassuming boy caught up in the middle of high espionage. As mentioned, he has no idea why SPYDER wants him so badly but many other agents know his reputation from the previous novel in the series. He helped to stop an enemy mission, although Erica’s dad took all the credit for himself. Ben cares for his friends and will do anything to protect them but his spy skills are mediocre. Readers will connect with him since he’s basically an average middle-grade kid. His empathy for others, his determination to succeed, and his common shortcomings make him a likable main character.
What didn’t work as well:
Character relationships aren’t fully developed in this graphic novel so readers may want to try the full novel too. There’s more to the Ben and Erica dynamic that doesn’t come through in the shorter version and it’s an important subplot in the series.
The Final Verdict:
Young readers will love Ben’s adventures as a blossoming spy as the author adds bits of humor and drama. The inclusion of illustrations in the graphic form enhances the action and helps the action move smoothly. I recommend you give this book a shot!
The plot follows the same storyline as the second book in the Spy School series so it can be a nice introduction to the books, or a fun revisiting for loyal readers. You might want to read the novel first since graphic novels don’t have enough text to fully develop the characters. Ben is the intelligent main character being targeted by SPYDER, the evil spy organization, although he’s not sure why. He has a crush on Erica, a highly skilled classmate at the CIA spy school, and she always manages to pop up and save Ben from perilous dangers. Her father contributes humor since his reputation as a decorated agent is highly exaggerated. He loves sharing tales of his greatness while Erica rolls her eyes and points out the truth and his numerous flaws.
The nice thing about graphic novels is the colorful illustrations help readers visualize the story and characters. Even if you’ve already read the previously published novels in the series, readers can now get a clear picture of what Ben, Erica, and Spy Camp look like. I especially appreciate seeing Woodchuck, the camp director, dressed in his Tarzan-like loin cloth to show he’s a survival expert. Illustrations replace text in many scenes which allows the plot to move more swiftly. This feature is especially appropriate and appreciated when characters are sneaking around or quickly moving from place to place. It helps readers get to confrontations, discoveries, and plot twists faster.
Ben is an unassuming boy caught up in the middle of high espionage. As mentioned, he has no idea why SPYDER wants him so badly but many other agents know his reputation from the previous novel in the series. He helped to stop an enemy mission, although Erica’s dad took all the credit for himself. Ben cares for his friends and will do anything to protect them but his spy skills are mediocre. Readers will connect with him since he’s basically an average middle-grade kid. His empathy for others, his determination to succeed, and his common shortcomings make him a likable main character.
What didn’t work as well:
Character relationships aren’t fully developed in this graphic novel so readers may want to try the full novel too. There’s more to the Ben and Erica dynamic that doesn’t come through in the shorter version and it’s an important subplot in the series.
The Final Verdict:
Young readers will love Ben’s adventures as a blossoming spy as the author adds bits of humor and drama. The inclusion of illustrations in the graphic form enhances the action and helps the action move smoothly. I recommend you give this book a shot!
September 8, 2024
Spy Camp: The Graphic Novel (2023)
Writer – Stuart Gibbs
Artist – Anjan Sarkar
Series - Spy School Graphic Novels #2
Synopsis: Ben Ripley, gets further communication from the rival organization SPYDER, while also having to attend his first Spy Camp.
The second adaptation of the second book in the Spy School series. Spy Camp generally felt like a proper sequel with higher stakes and adventure not limited to just within the school.
There is a lot going on, but the major bulk of the story is spearheaded by Erica, while Ripley just tags along. While the plot is entertaining and has a genuinely confusing mystery, the payout was pretty low. The twist was highly coincidental and convenient which made the final portion a slog to go through. The comedy or character build like the first part was lacking. But one person who got plenty was Erica and her dad which felt fleshed out. Once again, Ripley as a lead comes across as annoying. His skills is very rarely put to any use and is limited to once or twice in the whole story, which is disappointing.
The artwork by Anjan is good and in line with the tonal vibe of the story.
Overall, Spy Camp is a bigger set up for the series which is hilarious for teens and kids, but older readers would feel it a bit of chore.
RJG Rating – 2.75/5
Goodreads – 4.33/5
Writer – Stuart Gibbs
Artist – Anjan Sarkar
Series - Spy School Graphic Novels #2
Synopsis: Ben Ripley, gets further communication from the rival organization SPYDER, while also having to attend his first Spy Camp.
The second adaptation of the second book in the Spy School series. Spy Camp generally felt like a proper sequel with higher stakes and adventure not limited to just within the school.
There is a lot going on, but the major bulk of the story is spearheaded by Erica, while Ripley just tags along. While the plot is entertaining and has a genuinely confusing mystery, the payout was pretty low. The twist was highly coincidental and convenient which made the final portion a slog to go through. The comedy or character build like the first part was lacking. But one person who got plenty was Erica and her dad which felt fleshed out. Once again, Ripley as a lead comes across as annoying. His skills is very rarely put to any use and is limited to once or twice in the whole story, which is disappointing.
The artwork by Anjan is good and in line with the tonal vibe of the story.
Overall, Spy Camp is a bigger set up for the series which is hilarious for teens and kids, but older readers would feel it a bit of chore.
RJG Rating – 2.75/5
Goodreads – 4.33/5
April 5, 2023
Really 3.5.
Second installment in a fun action-adventure series for middle grade readers. This edition is a graphic novel based on the chapter book.
The general premise is that there's a secret school that trains children to be spies for the USA and the CIA.
Things I like about the series:
Our hero, Ben, is adorably clueless yet also smart and fast thinking. He's not afraid to ask for help from his colleagues when needed.
The adults are often ridiculous (in an entertaining way) in terms of ego, power, and self-aggrandizement.
Good action, and it's not always obvious how the kids are going to get out of their predicament.
The drawings clearly show moods and reactions and you get a sense of the action and the environment.
I can't imagine any kid (and adult) not loving these books.
Note: The cast is divergent, but the two main characters are white.
Thanks to the publisher print review copy.
Second installment in a fun action-adventure series for middle grade readers. This edition is a graphic novel based on the chapter book.
The general premise is that there's a secret school that trains children to be spies for the USA and the CIA.
Things I like about the series:
Our hero, Ben, is adorably clueless yet also smart and fast thinking. He's not afraid to ask for help from his colleagues when needed.
The adults are often ridiculous (in an entertaining way) in terms of ego, power, and self-aggrandizement.
Good action, and it's not always obvious how the kids are going to get out of their predicament.
The drawings clearly show moods and reactions and you get a sense of the action and the environment.
I can't imagine any kid (and adult) not loving these books.
Note: The cast is divergent, but the two main characters are white.
Thanks to the publisher print review copy.
April 5, 2024
"Spy Camp: The Graphic Novel" is super cool! It's about this kid named Ben Ripley who's not your regular middle schooler. He's been training to be a spy, dodging danger left and right. And just when he thinks he can finally chill in summer, guess what? Nope! He's sent to a secret spy camp in the wilderness.
But here's the catch: SPYDER, the bad guys, have snuck into the camp! Now Ben has to use all his spy skills to figure out who the enemy is before they get him. It's like a super intense game of hide and seek but with spies and danger!
I loved how this graphic novel is full of action and mystery. The drawings are awesome, and you feel like you're right there with Ben, trying to uncover the bad guys. If you're into spies and adventures, you'll totally dig "Spy Camp: The Graphic Novel"!
But here's the catch: SPYDER, the bad guys, have snuck into the camp! Now Ben has to use all his spy skills to figure out who the enemy is before they get him. It's like a super intense game of hide and seek but with spies and danger!
I loved how this graphic novel is full of action and mystery. The drawings are awesome, and you feel like you're right there with Ben, trying to uncover the bad guys. If you're into spies and adventures, you'll totally dig "Spy Camp: The Graphic Novel"!
January 15, 2023
As a huge Stuart Gibbs fan, I was very excited to see that the Spy School series was being published in graphic novel format! "Spy Camp" is the second book in the series. Having not read the first one, I was unfamiliar with the characters. I followed this book easily enough, but it was obvious I was missing a lot of background information. I would recommend readers follow the series in order. Having said that, this is an excellent graphic novel adaptation - the dialog and illustrations were clear and cohesive and made the story enjoyable. I will definitely be ordering "Spy School" in GN format as well as pre-ordering this one AND continue to wait for the rest of the books to be published as graphic novels. My students will love this series as an edition to our collection.
August 23, 2024
Ben Ripley is not a normal student, nor is he at a normal school. Ben studies at the CIA Academy of Espionage. When he gets a job contract/death threat from SPYDER, Ben isn't exactly thrilled. Of course, there are protection promises, but they don't work. Like, at all. Especially not the one from Alexander Hale. With the help of his friends, especially Erica Hale, Ben is doing an respectably good job of staying alive. But when he comes face to face with the boss of his SPYDER nemesis Murray Hill, who is supposed to be dead, something has to be done. Will he survive? Or will he end up dead?
July 19, 2023
SPYDER is back and has another evil plan. Ben is being openly recruited and the CIA seems to be full of double agents. It's up to the kids from Spy School to intercept.
I love that Gibbs is reworking the Spy School novels as graphics! Sarkar's illustrations are fantastic, and the story is action-packed and fast-paced. My middle graders are going to love this. Ben is white, other characters are a mix of different races and cultures.
Cross posted to http://kissthebook.blogspot.com
I love that Gibbs is reworking the Spy School novels as graphics! Sarkar's illustrations are fantastic, and the story is action-packed and fast-paced. My middle graders are going to love this. Ben is white, other characters are a mix of different races and cultures.
Cross posted to http://kissthebook.blogspot.com
September 5, 2023
An entertaining graphic novel of the second book in Gibbs's mega popular Spy School series. Again Ben is stuck in spy training and is disappointed to learn that he will not be able to go home, but must go to a very unappealing spy camp. Of course, his life is in danger and he doesn't know who to trust. Gibbs is a clever writer and this version of his story doesn't completely capture the book's wit and charm, but it's a fun story and works well as a graphic novel.
April 8, 2023
Loved going back into the Spy School world! It all came back to me as I read this fun graphic novel. Really felt the art brought it to life, even if it wasn't super detailed artwork it really stayed true to the book and I was super happy about that. Crossing my fingers they bring out the entire series in Graphic Novel form 😍🤞
September 21, 2023
Very good. The art was a bit strange but it followed the real book. I definitely recommend this to all Spy School fans. The author is very good at using the perfect words in each situation and making it fun and thought-provoking.
January 25, 2024
Spy Camp the Graphic Novel
I love the Spy School series, the graphic novels are ok. Sometimes I think what we picture a character looking like and what the artist pictures are so different that he warps the enjoyment of the book.
I love the Spy School series, the graphic novels are ok. Sometimes I think what we picture a character looking like and what the artist pictures are so different that he warps the enjoyment of the book.
May 31, 2024
This is about Ben who is 13 and drafted into the CIA school where he can go to camp and a lot of things go off but with the help of his friends they can bring everything back in order even with a big boom at the end.
September 16, 2024
I think Spy Camp was a good book. I liked the story of events & how everything was put together. I think that people who are interested in books where there is an evil organization and a group of people have to stop them, the Spy School series is a good series.
April 24, 2023
it was amazing
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2023
This series is fun, and I found myself excited to turn the page. The spy stuff and mystery are taken seriously, and there are twists and turns. ACTION-PACKED!
June 13, 2023
Spy Camp is the 2nd book in the Spy School series by Stuart Gibbs. These books have a great balance of spy adventure & comedy. I would recommend it for older kids, 9-12.
June 19, 2023
great art; fun, complex adventure story.
September 21, 2023
Great graphic novel!!!!
October 27, 2023
My boys and I loved this graphic novel! Hoping to read more by this author.
December 13, 2023
I should have read Spy School first, but the author does a great job summarizing what happened in the first book. My middle scchoolers should love it!
December 27, 2023
It wasn't as good as the real book but it was still very humorous. I recommend this series to young adult readers.
March 19, 2024
TBH, real bad compared to the og novel
April 2, 2024
This graphic novel was better than the spy school graphic novel. It was enjoyable, and while it can't really compare to the actual book, it was ok.
April 12, 2024
Another hilarious, fast-paced adventure!
May 9, 2024
It's fun, but the original is better.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews