Trenton Lee Stewart: Mysterious Benedict Society (2009, MT Books)
Published Nov. 9, 2009 by MT Books.
"Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunities?"
Dozens of children respond to this peculiar ad in the newspaper 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.
This middle-grade mystery series-starter was OK, but I probably won’t continue reading the series. Read my full review, including a different series recommendation, here.
This middle-grade mystery series-starter was OK, but I probably won’t continue reading the series. Read my full review, including a different series recommendation, here.
I really just loved everything about this book.
Excellent complex character development. Love the wordplay and puzzles. However, the challenge at the end of the book's completion to find Mr. Benedict's first name would have been funnier if 5993 had been used instead of Morse code.
