If you’re a fan of fast-paced, globe-trotting adventures packed with clever kids, high-stakes missions, and a touch of humor, the City Spies series by James Ponti is a must-read. Perfect for middle-grade readers, young adults, and even adults who love spy thrillers, this series follows a team of young operatives working for MI6. With each book, the stakes get higher, the settings more exotic, and the mysteries more gripping. In this guide, we’ll break down the City Spies books in order, share what makes each one special, and give you tips on diving into this exciting world.
Why Read the City Spies Series?
Before we dive into the books, let’s talk about why City Spies has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. James Ponti, a New York Times bestselling author, crafts stories that blend:
- Diverse Characters: The team of spies—Sara, Paris, Rio, Kat, and Sydney—come from different backgrounds, bringing unique skills and perspectives.
- Global Adventures: From New York to Paris to Beijing, each book takes you to a new city with vivid, immersive settings.
- Smart Storytelling: The plots are filled with twists, puzzles, and clever solutions that keep you guessing.
- Heart and Humor: Beyond the action, the series explores themes of friendship, trust, and found family, all with a lighthearted tone.
Whether you’re a parent looking for engaging reads for your kids or a reader craving a fun escape, this series delivers. Now, let’s get to the City Spies books in order!
List Of City Spies Books in Order by Year
Discover the complete List of City Spies books in order by year, perfect for readers who want to follow James Ponti’s thrilling spy adventures from the beginning. Explore each book’s release timeline, plot highlights, and reading sequence to enjoy the City Spies series in the best way. Ideal for new readers, parents, librarians, and young mystery fans.
| Order | Title | Publication Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | City Spies | 2020 | Sara, a young hacker, joins a secret MI6 team of kid spies for a mission in Paris. |
| 2 | Golden Gate | 2021 | The team sails to San Francisco to stop a plot tied to a billionaire’s yacht. |
| 3 | Forbidden City | 2022 | A chess tournament in Beijing hides a conspiracy that the spies must unravel. |
| 4 | City of the Dead | 2023 | In Cairo, the team faces danger tied to ancient Egyptian secrets. |
| 5 | Shock the Monkey | 2024 | A London mission involving AI and a tech tycoon tests the team’s skills. |
| 6 | Untitled (Book 6) | Expected 2026 | Details TBD; a new global adventure awaits the team. |
City Spies Books in Order
As of November 2025, the City Spies series includes five books, with a sixth expected in 2026. Below, we list each book in publication order, along with a spoiler-free overview to help you decide where to start or what’s next.
1. City Spies (2020)
Synopsis: Meet Sara Martinez, a 12-year-old hacker facing a tough future—until MI6 recruits her to join a secret team of young spies. Sent to Scotland, Sara trains with four other kids—Paris, Rio, Kat, and Sydney—under the mysterious Mother. Their first mission? Infiltrate a global youth summit in Paris to stop a dangerous plot.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Introduces the core team and their dynamic.
- Packed with action, from rooftop chases to undercover ops.
- Perfect for fans of Spy School or Alex Rider.
Reading Tip: Start here to understand the team’s origins and the series’ vibe.
2. Golden Gate (2021)
Synopsis: The team heads to San Francisco for a high-seas mission aboard a billionaire’s yacht. As they uncover a sinister plan tied to a historic landmark, they must navigate danger and decode clues before time runs out.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Features Sydney’s backstory and her bold personality.
- Includes nautical adventures and tech-heavy challenges.
- The San Francisco setting, including Alcatraz, is vividly described.
Reading Tip: Best read after City Spies to follow character arcs.
3. Forbidden City (2022)
Synopsis: The spies travel to Beijing for a covert operation during an international chess tournament. As they unravel a conspiracy, Kat’s analytical skills take center stage, but the team faces their toughest challenge yet.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Highlights Kat’s brilliance and her growth.
- Offers a fascinating look at Beijing’s culture and history.
- The chess-themed plot adds a unique layer of strategy.
Reading Tip: The stakes are higher, so read for maximum impact.
4. City of the Dead (2023)
Synopsis: The team travels to Cairo, Egypt, where ancient history collides with modern espionage. A mission tied to archaeological discoveries puts Rio in the spotlight, but secrets from the past threaten the team’s future.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Blends Egyptian mythology with spy thrills.
- Rio’s charm and quick thinking shine.
- Perfect for readers who love history-infused adventures.
Reading Tip: Builds on team dynamics, so don’t skip earlier books.
5. Shock the Monkey (2024)
Synopsis: The spies head to London for a mission involving cutting-edge AI and a mysterious tech tycoon. Paris takes the lead as the team faces ethical dilemmas and high-tech threats.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Explores timely themes like AI and privacy.
- Paris’s leadership and humor make this a standout.
- London’s iconic landmarks add flair to the action.
Reading Tip: The most recent book, best enjoyed after catching up.
6. Untitled Book 6 (Expected 2026)
Synopsis: Details are under wraps, but James Ponti has teased another global adventure with the team facing new challenges. Stay tuned for updates!
Why You’ll Love It:
- Promises more of the team’s signature wit and teamwork.
- Likely to introduce fresh settings and villains.
Reading Tip: Follow James Ponti on social media or check publisher sites for release news.
How to Read the City Spies Series
- In Publication Order: For the best experience, read the books in the order listed above. Each book builds on the team’s relationships and past missions, though standalone plots make them accessible.
- Age Range: Ideal for ages 8–12 (middle grade), but enjoyable for teens and adults.
- Formats: Available in hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook. Check local libraries or retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Bookshop.org.
- Reading Time: Each book is around 350–400 pages, taking 6–8 hours for most readers.
What Makes City Spies Stand Out?
The City Spies series isn’t just another spy thriller. Here’s why it’s a cut above:
- Relatable Heroes: Each spy has flaws, dreams, and a unique voice, making them easy to root for.
- Cultural Richness: Ponti weaves in details about each city’s history, food, and landmarks, making the books educational and immersive.
- Pacing and Plot Twists: Every chapter ends on a hook, and the surprises keep coming.
- Inclusivity: The diverse cast reflects a global world, resonating with readers of all backgrounds.
Tips for Parents and Educators
- Discussion Starters: Use the books to spark conversations about teamwork, problem-solving, or global cultures.
- Classroom Use: Great for book clubs or reading assignments, with themes that align with social studies or ethics.
- Content Note: Mild peril and action scenes are age-appropriate, with no graphic violence or mature themes.
Where to Find City Spies Books
Ready to start reading? You can find the City Spies series at:
- Online Retailers: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Bookshop.org.
- Local Bookstores: Support independent shops by checking stock or ordering.
- Libraries: Many libraries carry the series in physical or digital formats.
- Audiobooks: Available on Audible or Libby for on-the-go listening.
FAQs About the City Spies Series
Q: Do I need to read the City Spies books in order? A: While each book has a standalone mission, reading in order enhances character development and references to past events.
Q: Is City Spies suitable for adults? A: Absolutely! The clever plots and humor make it a fun read for all ages.
Q: Are there more City Spies books coming? A: Yes, a sixth book is expected in 2026. Stay tuned for updates!
Q: What books are similar to City Spies? A: Try Spy School by Stuart Gibbs, Alex Rider by Anthony Horowitz, or The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart.
Final Thoughts
The City Spies series by James Ponti is a thrilling ride that combines heart, humor, and high-stakes adventure. Whether you’re new to the series or catching up before the next release, reading the books in order—starting with City Spies and continuing through Shock the Monkey—ensures you get the full experience. With unforgettable characters and settings that leap off the page, this series is perfect for anyone who loves a good spy story.
So, grab a copy, join Sara and the team on their next mission, and get ready to see the world through the eyes of the coolest spies in town. Which City Spies book are you most excited to read? Let us know in the comments!
