In "Rise of the Spider", Michael P. Spradlin introduces young readers to a gripping, historically rooted tale that not only entertains but also educates. Published by Margaret K. McElderry Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, this is the first in a six-part series, "Web of the Spider", aimed at detailing the societal turmoil in Germany during the lead-up to World War II. Released on September 24, 2024, "Rise of the Spider" is an eye-opening, fast-paced novel that touches on timely themes while making history accessible to a younger audience. I'm also giving away a paperback copy of "Rise of the Spider"! Don't forget to enter the giveaway below!
Title: Rise of the Spider (1)
Author: Michael P. Spradlin
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Release Date: September 24, 2024
Pages: 160
About the book:
1929, Heroldsberg, Germany. Rolf might only be twelve years old, but he’s old enough to know that things have not been good in his country since the end of the Great War. Half of Germany is out of work, and a new political movement is taking hold that scares him.
Every night, Rolf’s father and older brother, Romer, have increasingly
heated arguments about politics at the dinner table. And when two members of the new Nazi Party, Hans and Nils, move to town as part of the Hitler Youth, Rolf is uneasy to see how enamored Romer is by their promises of bringing Germany to glory. Rolf doesn’t trust Hans and Nils for a moment. For all their talk of greatness, they act more like bullies, antagonizing shop owners who are Rolf’s friends and neighbors. Yet Romer becomes increasingly obsessed with their message of division, and Rolf watches in horror as his family fractures even further.
When there is an act of vandalism against a Jewish-owned business in town, Rolf fears Romer might have had something to do with it. Can Rolf find a way to intervene before things get any worse?
This is the first book in a planned six-book series, Web of the Spider, about the lead-up to World War II. These books are quick, action-focused reads, and each installment in the series will be published at rapid release (with book #2, "Rise of the Spider", already coming in summer 2025!).
My Review
"Rise of the Spider" sets the stage for a powerful six-book series, "Web of the Spider", that will explore the key events leading up to World War II. Through the eyes of 12-year-old Rolf, readers are thrown into 1929 Germany, where political and social tensions are brewing in the aftermath of the Great War. Spradlin wastes no time in plunging us into a time of unrest, where the rise of fascist ideologies begins to fracture families, communities, and ultimately, nations.
Set in the small town of Heroldsberg, Germany, "Rise of the Spider" focuses on how everyday life is affected by these larger political movements. Spradlin’s work provides a highly accessible entry point for middle-grade and young adult readers to learn about this critical period in history. The storytelling is fast-paced, action-packed, and effortlessly pulls readers into the tension and fear that gripped Germany in the 1920s.
A Boy Caught in the Middle
The heart of the story is Rolf, a young boy who feels the weight of the world resting on his small shoulders. Rolf's family is torn apart by the growing political divide. His father and brother, Romer, clash over the rising influence of the Nazi Party, while Rolf is caught in the middle, trying to navigate his rapidly changing world.
Romer’s growing admiration for the Hitler Youth, represented by two sinister new arrivals, Hans and Nils, puts the family under immense strain. Spradlin masterfully depicts Rolf’s internal conflict as he wrestles with his brother’s dangerous descent into extremism, torn between loyalty to family and his gut instinct that something is very wrong. The author’s decision to focus on a young protagonist is both strategic and poignant, as it allows younger readers to connect with the historical themes on a personal level.
A Chilling Exploration of Fascism's Rise
One of the most striking aspects of "Rise of the Spider" is how Spradlin draws eerie parallels between the political climate of 1929 Germany and modern-day societal issues. While this novel is historical fiction, the underlying message about the dangers of fascism and the manipulation of societal fears to gain power resonates loudly in today’s world. Through Rolf's story, Spradlin highlights how quickly political ideologies can divide communities, disrupt families, and lead to the erosion of moral and civic responsibility.
The vandalism of a Jewish-owned business in the town is a pivotal moment in the novel, shaking Rolf’s world and making him confront the reality of what his brother and friends are becoming. Spradlin doesn’t shy away from the harsh truths of how easily hate can spread and be normalized, even among those closest to us. While some readers may find these topics heavy, the novel handles them in a way that is both age-appropriate and thought-provoking.
What Stands Out
One of the most engaging elements of the book is the fast pace. "Rise of the Spider" is full of tension, and the stakes are high from the beginning. This keeps young readers hooked while still delivering important historical lessons. Spradlin’s prose is straightforward and accessible, ensuring that the complex politics of the time are digestible without losing depth.
The character development, particularly of Rolf and his brother Romer, is another strength. Watching Romer’s transformation under the influence of the Hitler Youth is both heartbreaking and terrifying. At the same time, Rolf’s struggle to remain true to his moral compass is inspiring, offering hope amid the darkness of the historical setting.
The historical accuracy and attention to detail are also notable. Spradlin paints a vivid picture of life in 1929 Germany, from the economic struggles to the social unrest. His ability to blend historical fact with a compelling fictional narrative makes "Rise of the Spider" both educational and entertaining.
A Few Shortcomings
While "Rise of the Spider" excels in many areas, there are a few minor drawbacks. The novel's fast pace, while engaging, sometimes comes at the expense of deeper exploration of certain characters and themes. Some readers might wish for more insight into the political complexities that led to the rise of the Nazi Party, though this may be intentional to leave room for further development in the series.
Additionally, while Rolf’s personal journey is compelling, other characters, particularly female characters, could have been more developed. This is a common issue in historical fiction centered on male protagonists, but it's something that could be addressed in future installments of the series.
Final Thoughts
"Rise of the Spider" is a promising start to what is sure to be an impactful and eye-opening series. Michael P. Spradlin has crafted a thrilling, emotionally charged narrative that doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of history. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, individuals can make a difference, no matter how small.
As the first installment in the "Web of the Spider" series, this book sets up a world that feels all too real, both in its historical context and its chilling relevance to today’s world. With book two on the horizon for summer 2025, readers will no doubt be eagerly awaiting the continuation of Rolf’s story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (4.5/5 stars)
If you enjoy fast-paced historical fiction with a strong emotional core, "Rise of the Spider" is a must-read. Whether you’re a young reader curious about history or an adult looking for a fresh take on pre-WWII Germany, this book delivers in spades. Keep an eye on this series—it’s bound to become a staple in classrooms and libraries alike.
About the author:
MICHAEL P. SPRADLIN (he/him/his) is the New York Times bestselling and Edgar Award-nominated author of the Spy Goddess series, The Youngest Templar series, and the Web of the Spider series, as well as several works of historical fiction, including the Western Heritage Award-winning Off Like the
Wind: The Story of the Pony Express. He currently resides in Lapeer, Michigan, with his wife, daughter, and his schnoodle, Sequoia. Learn more at MichaelSpradlin.com.
Giveaway:
One (1) Paperback copy of "Rise of the Spider" by Michael P. Spradlin. USA only ends on November 15, 2024 Midnight EST.
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