Phoebe the Spy

With its teenage protagonist, Phoebe the Spy is in part a coming-of-age story. Phoebe’s character arc shows how people can become braver and bolder when given an important task, as she changes from an uncertain child to a competent spy and, finally, a triumphant hero. 

When her father initially reveals her mission, Phoebe is both scared and incredulous. She cannot picture herself as a spy or the savior of anyone, let alone one of the most powerful men in the colonies: “Phoebe was very frightened. General Washington was a great soldier! How could she save his life, if his whole army could not? She wouldn’t know who to look for. She was not even strong enough to fight anyone!” (12). Phoebe’s inner thoughts reveal her fear and lack of confidence. As a child who lives at home and works at her family’s tavern, Phoebe has never had such a consequential responsibility before—one that effectively places the entire war effort on her shoulders. Her disbelief shows how new and frightening the situation is to her: “And what if she failed? […] Phoebe shook her head. Could this really be happening?” (12). 

Phoebe’s decision to listen to her father and accept his mission shows her strong sense of responsibility and forces her to gather her courage and self-belief. The novel shows both developing gradually, with Phoebe first gaining confidence in her role as housekeeper for which her work at the tavern has prepared her. When she arrives at Mortier House for the first time, she assures Mary, the cook, that she is old enough to be the grand home’s housekeeper, telling her, “I’m strong […] And I work hard. I’ll have no trouble” (18). Privately, she is homesick and scared and remains intimidated by her broader task. The author writes, “She could not do it. Her father had asked too much” (20). However, Phoebe’s recollection that she only has to try her best helps her: “[Her father’s] words came back to her: ‘I only want you to try, Daughter’” (21). By framing responsibility through effort rather than success, Sam gives Phoebe a way to approach her task without becoming overwhelmed.

Over the many weeks she spends at Mortier House, Phoebe’s bravery only grows, and when she learns of the immediate crisis brewing, she feels more courageous than ever: “She was frightened, but she was also determined. She would save General Washington!” (34). Her growing confidence helps her keep her secrets to herself while figuring out the nature of the plot against Washington’s life, which she stops just in time. By forcing her to leave home, keep dangerous secrets, and think for herself, Phoebe’s role as a spy challenges her to become more independent and courageous, which she is rewarded for when her efforts finally pay off.