Families who loved Spy Ski School by Stuart Gibbs often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is navigating the awkward transition of middle school and needs to see that 'average' kids can achieve extraordinary things through persistence and teamwork. In this high-stakes adventure, thirteen-year-old Ben Ripley is sent undercover to an elite Colorado ski resort to befriend the daughter of a suspected international criminal. While the plot is filled with gadgetry and narrow escapes, it deeply explores the emotional landscape of feeling inadequate compared to peers. Ben struggles with physical coordination and the pressure of his first field mission, making this an excellent choice for kids who feel like underdogs. The story balances humor with genuine moments of self-discovery, normalizing the embarrassment of learning new skills while celebrating the bravery it takes to fail and try again.