The Mysterious Benedict Society

The Mysterious Benedict Society
By Trenton Lee Stewart
Little, Brown 2007. 485 pgs. Chapter book.

“Are you a gifted child looking for Special Opportunities?” reads a curious advertisement that catches Reynie Muldoon's eye one day. Being just such a child, Reynie answers the ad and soon finds himself part of a secret society of kids who must use their unique talents as a team to save the world. Evil masterminds, undercover spies, solving mind boggling puzzles, figuring out mysterious clues—this book has all the elements of a great adventure.

On the edge of your seat hilarious, this book is like Alex Rider meets Series of Unfortunate Events. The characters are larger than life, but the problems they face are real enough to draw in the reader and make them care for our young heroes. Kids who love puzzles will find themselves losing sleep while trying to figure out some of the best mindbenders presented to the young members of the Benedict Society. Reluctant readers might find the length of this book a bit difficult, but all the rest will be begging for even more.

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