Remember, children. For every exit, there is also an entrance.

The Mysterious Benedict Society

Trenton Lee Stewart

While it doesn’t compare to the great Harry Potter series, or even Percy Jackson (all of which I read in about a week during the hot summer of 2009, sweating in Wes’s studio apartment and hearing constant criticism for choosing my books out of the children’s section), The Mysterious Benedict Society is a fairly decent, adventurous children’s book. The first in a series, this book introduces Mr. Benedict and the four children he enlists to help humanity and free thought.

Reynie Muldoon, an enlightened orphan with a knack for puzzles, responds to a newspaper ad looking for gifted children and along with Sticky Washington, Kate Weatherhill, and Constance Contraire, is chosen for a mission to infiltrate the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened (EVIL spelled backwards). The book deals with orphans rising above to take on evil (hello, Harry Potter) but also approaches how slogans can affect people, and the importance and persuasion of children.

It’s a pretty good book, ad teaches the importance of truth, even when the temptation to give in to lies can be so easy. Adults will read it easily and enjoy the hidden puzzles, while children will love the adventures and relatable characters.

My only question is why do characters with magical abilities, etc always realize their greatness when they’re around 11? Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Mysterious Benedict Society, Pevensie Children (Narnia), etc. And why did I not go on adventures throughout my teenage years? Dammit, I guess I’ll have to settle for superhero abilities to set in within the next few years.

Anyway, escape into your childhood for a bit and enjoy The Mysterious Benedict Society.