The Mysterious Benedict Society

This book revolves around the trials and tribulations of four orphans who, after completing a serious of challenging and unorthodox tests, are tasked with a highly dangerous mission, with the fate of the world hanging in the balance. In order to prevail (supposing that they do indeed find themselves triumphant), they must face their greatest fears and learn to trust one another and come together as a team. Each child brings an important skill to the team (though the importance of some of these skills are not revealed until very late in the book), and it is only united that they can hope to be successful. There is plenty of action and adventure throughout the book, but for all the physical skirmishes, the book is also filled with puzzles, riddles, and mental strategizing. As such, I think it would appeal to a wide variety of children (because it is kid lit), but certainly adults as well. Strong core themes of friendship, family, bravery, truth, and intellectual freedom run throughout the novel, although the latter one might be a bit esoteric/advanced for most child readers; still, Stewart handles all of the issues in a fairly elegant way, and avoids being pedantic. I found the first part of the book where everything is shrouded in mystery stronger than the latter part of the novel, where things do lose steam a bit and the plot seems to meander.

Overall, I didn't exactly feel as though this book held the same magic of the Harry Potter books (no pun intended!) despite the comparisons, but I did enjoy it, and read it quickly (despite its length). The characters were all sympathetic, but not necessarily as well-developed or sympathetic as those in the Potter novels (for instance, Mr. Benedict, is a far cry from Albus Dumbledore). It was a solid first novel (it appears there will be a series), but everything added up to a very good, but not necessarily great, book. Perhaps subsequent books will allow for more meaningful development for all four characters. I won't be rushing out to read the next one (as I did with Chamber of Secrets, after finishing Philosopher's Stone), but I certainly intend to eventually read the next book and the next adventure.

This is an exciting book. Readers will want to know what will happen to Reynie when he takes the test. Will he pass? A good book for ages 10 to adult.

A friend gave these books to my 13-year-old son. This is his review:

Overall, I believe these books are a very good read. They are filled with interesting puzzles that will test your mental capabilities, and plenty of action. So, without further ado, The Mysterious Benedict society!

The first book is more of a book of puzzles than an action book. I thought the plot was interesting. It's about four children who are sent to a strange location on a secret mission.

What I like about this book is its puzzles and characters. I would definitely recommend this book to all.

The second book is more of an action book than the original. It is one of those rare sequels that are as good as the first. It's about the same four children, now sent to all sorts of places to look for their two abducted friends.

This book has many characters from its prequel, and is just as good. I recommend this book.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as did my 10 year old daughter. I loved seeing smart kids as the heroes. I also loved the message that combining many talents creates a powerful force, allowing children to overcome the sinister adults. The book is entertaining and pulls you in from the start.

9 yr old boy LOVED it, recommended to friend for whom mom has a hard time finding books - they loved it!