“For years now, I have conducted these tests in hopes of forming a team of children to help me on an urgent project…  But those who have passed have not done so at the same time, and this, you see, is crucial. I do not simply need a team; I need a team of children.” —Mr. Benedict

In the midst of a busy city, eleven year-old Reynie Muldoon is a genius of sorts who decidedly attends a mysterious test featured in a newspaper advertisement. The strange notice grants access to “secret opportunities” for talented children all around. Intrigued by this bizarre headline, Reynie undergoes a series of puzzling tests, and is granted access to a secret organization along with three other young children: mental genius Sticky Washington, tinker Kate Wetherall, and of all people, stubborn little Constance Contraire. When they learn about each other’s unique talents, they forge a bond and are sent off on a top secret mission to save the minds of mankind by none other than the genius Nicholas Benedict himself. The four then adopt the name, The Mysterious Benedict Society, and as spies, are brought into the clutches of “The Sender,” who is an unknown mastermind who has the goal of controlling all of mankind through mysterious, mind controlling television broadcasts. It is up to The Mysterious Benedict Society to solve the case and thwart the man behind the act.

When I first heard of Trenton Lee Stewart’s “The Mysterious Benedict Society” from a friend, I immediately remarked about the strange name. Nevertheless,  I had seen many other of my classmates avidly reading the novel during class and decided to check it out. This book is bursting with humor, action and mystery and will not disappoint readers regardless of genre preferences. It is a personal favorite of mine and I have read it multiple times. Even if the plot doesn’t throw you in for a loop, the quizzes and tests that Reynie takes are always fun to read.

Like many other adventure books, “The Mysterious Benedict Society” pulls the reader forward into the detailed, adventurous plot and lets them in on a wild ride. And like any good story, it features a variety of scenes that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat in anticipation, cheering the crew on. Although they celebrated many victories, there is always a loss within a victory. Challenges await the brave, young children, but in the end, they always emerge successful. “I really enjoyed the plot and the well-developed characters. This book is a great read regardless of age and I highly recommend it.” stated 8th grader Helen Fang.

Readers who enjoy reading sci-fi like Polly Shulman’s “The Wells Bequest” or adventure tales like Marissa Meyer’s “Cinder” will love the exciting twist in plot of Stewart’s novel. Join Reynie and the society as they embark on a great voyage to the unknown by reading the whole series.