The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart

‘A…blend of kid power, clues and adventure.’ –School Library Journal (starred review)

‘The Mysterious Benedict Society’, written by Trenton Lee Stewart, is a novel about four gifted children, Reynie Muldoon, Sticky Washington, Kate Wetherall, and Constance Contraire. They are brought together as The Mysterious Benedict Society, named after Mr Benedict, who recruits them as part of his special team. The story is set at a time where the country is experiencing a looming ‘Emergency’. Mr Benedict discovers that a secret signal is being broadcasted through television transmissions and it is actually the voice of a young girl giving cryptic messages. The signals are coming from the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, a strange organisation which attracts many young, gifted children. After a series of tests organised by Mr Benedict and his team, the children are recruited and sent to the Learning Institute, where they try to discover the truth behind the mysterious signals. However, through their journey, they will face many physical and mental trials, but the most important test is the test of friendship. The Mysterious Benedict Society is a fast-paced, exciting book which will definitely give readers edge-of-their-seat anticipation. Along the way, readers can also test their wits alongside the children as they face many mind-bending puzzles and riddles. This book is a particular childhood favourite, as it taught me values such as the importance of friendship and standing by each other, especially in times of need. Read an excerpt from the book here!

 http://www.scribd.com/doc/79512927/The-Mysterious-Benedict-Society-Book-1-by-Trenton-Lee-Stewart-PREVIEW The Mysterious Benedict Society is part of series, with 2 other sequels (‘The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey’ and ‘The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner’s Dilemma’), a prequel (‘The Extraordinary Education of Nicholas Benedict’) and finally a puzzle book (Mr. Benedict’s book of Perplexing Puzzles, Elusive Enigmas, and Curious Conundrums).

~Soh Wen Shuen (2W)

(Book cover)

The Society (from front to back): Constance, Reynie, Sticky, Kate