Saturday, October 26, 2024

Book Review: The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart

The Mysterious Benedict Society

Author:
Trenton Lee Stewart
Series: The Mysterious Benedict Society (Book 1)
Publication: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers; Illustrated edition (April 1, 2008)

Description: For fans of Lemony Snicket and Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library, this first book in the bestselling, award-winning Mysterious Benedict Society series is not to be missed!

"Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunities?" Dozens of children respond to this peculiar newspaper ad and are then put through a series of mind-bending tests, which readers take along with them. Only four children—two boys and two girls—succeed. Their challenge: to go on a secret mission that only the most intelligent and inventive children could complete. To accomplish it, they will have to go undercover at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where the only rule is that there are no rules. But what they'll find in the hidden underground tunnels of the school is more than your average school supplies. So, if you're gifted, creative, or happen to know Morse Code, they could probably use your help.

My Thoughts: This middle grade fantasy describes the adventures of four young orphans who are recruited by the mysterious Mr. Benedict for a dangerous mission to save the world. All four of the children are very bright and manage to pass a series of difficult tests.

Reynie Muldoon, Sticks Washington, Kate Wetherall, and Constance Contraire all have a variety of skills necessary to defeat the evil villain. Reynie is a great puzzle solver. Sticks remembers everything. Kate is daring and physically gifted. Constance is as contrary as her name and filled with stubbornness. 

The three are sent to a new school - the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened - to find out what its leader Ledroptha Curtain is up to. The kids have a variety of adventures including discovering secret tunnels and communicating with Morse Code. They also have to deal with the various students who are quite an odd lot. 

Fans of bright, brave kids having adventures in a fantasy world will enjoy this one. 

I bought this one January 6, 2010. You can buy your copy here.

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