This week, Sam and Dana dive into City Spies, where five talented kids are recruited by MI6 for a top-secret mission in Paris. They break down the action-packed plot, the fun of seeing spies with real-world skills (no magic needed!), and why Mother is one of their favorite adult characters so far. Plus, they recap the current standings for their Bookwards Book Awards, reviewing the top contenders so far for categories like Best Main Character and more.

In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana explore the enchanting world of The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani. They discuss the book’s unique take on fairy tales, the deep bond between protagonists Sophie and Agatha, and how the story challenges traditional notions of good and evil. From the magic of the school itself to the twists that keep readers guessing, they break down what makes this YA fantasy stand out.

In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson. They discuss Rafe Katchadorian’s hilarious and rebellious quest to break every school rule, the deeper struggles he faces at home, and the surprising emotional twists that make this book more than just a comedy. From outrageous pranks to heartfelt moments, they explore what makes Rafe’s story so memorable.

In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger. They discuss Sophie Foster, a 12-year-old girl who discovers she’s an elf with incredible powers, leaving her human life behind to join the Lost Cities. From the fast-paced plot to Sophie’s emotional journey, friendships, and rivalries, they break down what makes this book so engaging.

In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Katherine Rundell’s Impossible Creatures, discussing its magical world, intriguing supporting characters, and the slower start to the adventure. They explore themes of friendship, bravery, and the captivating quests across the Archipelago, sharing their thoughts on the story’s strengths and areas for improvement.

In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana discuss Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer by John Grisham. The story follows 13-year-old Theo Boone, a middle schooler with a passion for law, whose parents are both lawyers. When a high-profile murder trial begins in his town, Theo becomes involved after learning about a crucial witness who knows the identity of the murderer but is too afraid to come forward. Theo faces the difficult decision of whether to expose the witness and risk danger or let the trial proceed without this key information. Tune in as Sam and Dana explore the moral dilemmas, side characters, and twists of this legal thriller.

In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana explore Percy Jackson and the Chalice of the Gods by Rick Riordan, a new adventure where Percy, Annabeth, and Grover must recover the stolen Chalice of the Gods. This magical cup grants immortality, and its loss could spell disaster. Along the way, the trio faces killer chickens, mischievous minor gods, and big questions about aging, immortality, and what it means to embrace life’s natural course.

In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Spy School by Stuart Gibbs, a thrilling adventure following 12-year-old Ben Ripley, an ordinary kid unexpectedly recruited into a secret CIA academy. Believing he’s accepted for his math skills, Ben soon learns the truth—he’s merely bait in a mission to uncover a dangerous mole within the school.

In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana explore Holes by Louis Sachar, a captivating story about Stanley Yelnats, a boy sent to a juvenile prison camp where digging holes is the daily punishment. As they unravel the mysteries of Camp Green Lake, Sam and Dana dive into the book’s themes of friendship, fate, and buried secrets.

In this episode of Bookwards, Sam and Dana dive into Gordon Korman’s 2021 novel, “Unplugged.” Set at the Oasis, a phone-free wellness camp, the story revolves around Jett, a rule-breaking billionaire’s son, and other colorful characters. Sam and Dana explore the unique character dynamics and the book’s intriguing plot twists, including the mystery surrounding the camp’s villain.