Code Name Verity

Code Name Verity

Wein, E. (2012). Code name verity. New York: Hyperion Books.

Code Name Verity is a historical fiction novel about two young women from opposite worlds whose destiny brings them to a heartfelt and everlasting friendship.  Maddie Brodatt, the Jewish pilot/mechanic finds herself flying planes in World War II and eventually, ferrying spies over enemy territory.  Queenie is the beautiful Scottish aristocrat whose talent at being a spy often puts her in harm’s way.  On one of the missions, Queenie/Verity/Julie Stuart is forced to parachute from the plane being flown by Maddie/Kittyhawk and is captured by the German forces and tortured into giving up their secret codes, all made up, of course.  As a diversion, Queenie, who writes her biography in third person, also includes stories of her friendship with Maddie and other details that serve as clues.  Maddie, in the meantime is taken in by members of the Resistance whose mission is to rescue prisoners, Queenie among them, and destroy the Gestapo’s headquarters.  In twist of plot that literally caused me to gasp, Maddie is forced to make a horrendous choice that changes her forever.  This is an emotional rollercoaster that makes the reader both laugh and cry while also encouraging them to think and make connections.  Because of the emotional content and the sometimes subtle, sometimes startling violence, Code Name Verity would be appropriate for students in grades 9-12 and I believe is a great “strong girl” novel.