“Thank you, sir,” Reynie said, stepping out into the corridor, where Jackson stood waiting for him. “Don’t thank me,” Mr. Curtain called as the door slid closed. “Impress me!”–Trenton Lee Stewart, The Mysterious Benedict Society

This is a favorite of mine and of my kids. We were all drawn in as children from all over the city respond to an add in the newspaper asking, “Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunities?” The children are put through a series of tests and in the end, only four children are selected: Reynie, Sticky, Kate, and Constance. These children are sent on a mission by their mentor, Mr. Benedict. They will need to go undercover at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened where nothing is as it seems. This is a great adventure story and the four remarkable children are (mostly) endearing characters. Like everyone, they have their flaws! If you enjoy this book, the good news is that is the first in The Mysterious Benedict Society series. The entire series is top notch and one that will appeal to adventure lovers everywhere.

Content Advisory: Peril to children

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