The Mysterious
Benedict Society

The Mysterious Benedict Society opens with a series of tests, and as one reads the words, one cannot help but wonder, 'Am I special? Would I pass?' But alas, I admit that I would be in the group dismissed. I had to chuckle at my ineptitude as I continued forward with Reynard, Sticky, Constance, and Kate ‘the great’. The amalgam of the little group makes you feel as though you are a part of something big. Each child has their own unique set of skills which, when pulled together in friendship, makes them quite the force to be reckoned with. This young adult novel had me on the edge of my seat. As they go undercover, I found my heart pumping for them. I too was afraid of the waiting room and prayed to never find myself there. Trenton Lee Stewart has a way of wrangling you in until you are one with the characters. I felt as though I was included in the treacherous mission the children had to face. Even at the end, when all hope was lost, I felt I could count on my bosom buddies. If you are a believer in all things good and a fan of James Bond, this will be a fast read for you. I am eager to get my hands on the next installment in the series, The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey.