From School Library Journal
Starred Review. Grade 5–9—After Reynie Muldoon responds to an advertisement recruiting "gifted children looking for special opportunities," he finds himself in a world of mystery and adventure. The 11-year-old orphan is one of four children to complete a series of challenging and creative tasks, and he, Kate, Constance, and Sticky become the Mysterious Benedict Society. After being trained by Mr. Benedict and his assistants, the four travel to an isolated school where children are being trained by a criminal mastermind to participate in his schemes to take over the world. The young investigators need to use their special talents and abilities in order to discover Mr. Curtain's secrets, and their only chance to defeat him is through working together. Readers will challenge their own abilities as they work with the Society members to solve clues and put together the pieces of Mr. Curtain's plan. In spite of a variety of coincidences, Stewart's unusual characters, threatening villains, and dramatic plot twists will grab and hold readers' attention. Fans of Roald Dahl or Blue Balliett will find a familiar blend of kid power, clues, and adventure in
Society, though its length may daunt reluctant or less-secure readers. Underlying themes about the power of media messages and the value of education add to this book's appeal, and a happy ending with hints of more adventures to come make this first-time author one to remember.—
Beth L. Meister, Pleasant View Elementary School, Franklin, WI Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
From AudioFile
When Reynie Muldoon's tutor encourages him to respond to a strange ad in the newspaper, he begins an adventure that will spark the interest and challenge the intellect of listeners young and old. Through a series of mysterious, mind-bending tests, Reynie and three other unique, gifted children are recruited to go undercover at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened to derail a plot to take over the world. Using intellect, imagination, and resourcefulness, they embark on an adventure that will entertain "gifted" children of all ages. Del Roy's narration is inspired. His serious tone communicates his respect for the skills and talents of the youngsters in the story, as well as the listeners who are playing along. N.E.M. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine--
Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
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