The Mysterious Benedict Society
by Trenton Lee Stewart
Part “Series of Unfortunate Events” and part “Chasing Vermeer,” this book will keep readers turning pages with a mix of compassion and suspense. Eleven year old Reynie Muldoon, an orphan, answers a peculiar ad in the paper to be tested to qualify for special opportunities. The test is even more peculiar, as are the other children he meets along the way. When at last the final four have been selected, they learn that they are not going to a special school - they are going to save the world. After a brief training they are sent to infiltrate the “Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened.” Will they succeed? Will they be found out? Will they be brave enough? An enjoyable read with a satisfactory (if a bit contrived) ending.
