The Lady is a Spy, written by Don Mitchell, reviewed by Bethany Bratney

Summary: The Lady is a Spy tells the story of unsung hero Virginia Hall, an American woman who was a renowned and respected member of the French Resistance during World War II. The book is a true biography, starting with her spirited childhood and following her unique path into a college career studying economics and languages. She was traveling through Europe in 1939 when Hitler began his invasion of Poland, an event that motivated Hall to get involved with the growing resistance movement. Her educational background, along with her independent spirit and unparalleled bravery, made her a perfect candidate for intelligence work.

Straight Talk for Librarians: Mitchell provides details of Hall’s lengthy career working for both the British Special Operations Executive and the U.S. Office of Strategic Services. He perfectly captures her fearlessness in the face of danger, as well as her incomparable commitment to justice. Her story is both fascinating and gripping, a nice balance between historical background and Virginia’s own dangerous daily life. Feminist themes surrounding pay inequity and the respect shown to women in a male-dominated field are captured honestly, particularly in discussion of Hall’s intelligence work post World War II. Students will meet an American hero who they may have never heard about in this slim and exciting volume. A must purchase for those trying to enhance biography collections.