The Mysterious Benedict Society

The first time I saw the title of this book, I was totally intrigued!  I wanted to know what such a title could mean and when a good friend of mine, Heather, mentioned that she'd seen the book and wanted to test it out someday, then I knew I should try it! Our taste in reading is often identical!

The story follows four "gifted" children who each respond to an ad in the newspaper that reads, "Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunities?"  I think one of the aspects I like best about this book, without giving anything away, is to say that individual gifts, talents, personalities, etc. are emphasized and celebrated as a good thing, even as the possibility for greatness when combining the efforts of individuals is also explored.

I am now so very happy I gave in to my curiosity and read, "The Mysterious Benedict Society."  It is a delightful book! I highly recommend it. What a refreshing change of pace! I have tried to think of what this book reminds me of, because facets of it do remind me of some other book I've read, but otherwise it seems original enough that it is difficult for me to compare it to any other book.  I think this would probably be a great read for anyone who loves a wonderful young teen/early YA book with a flavor similar to bygone eras, yet nothing outdated or difficult to understand in the least!  Stewart uses fun vocabulary and his plot is truly brilliant. You come to appreciate and love the main and supporting protagonists.  Loved reading this book, did not feel like it was too young for an adult to thoroughly enjoy and I'm looking forward to the next three that are out!  These are books I would hand to my children in a heartbeat!  :) 

Have you read The Mysterious Benedict Society?  Thoughts? 

The Hunger Games!

I give this book 5 stars!

Oh my! I almost consumed this book! It says on my Goodreads that I started reading on June 18 and finished June 22, but truth be known, there was one day in there I didn't read in the book at all and yet I read the entire novel in less than the time it took me over 3 days! Yes, it was that good! I typically would sit and read over 70-100 pages in one sitting. I loved it! And it was unlike any book I'd read, up to that point. I so, so, SO want to read the 2nd and 3rd books! I'm going to have to hunt them down immediately now . . . .


I would recommend this book not only to Young Adults (as it's listed as YA Fiction actually), but to adults. If you think you aren't a "fantasy" fan and so that's what's keeping you from reading this, don't let it! I don't always like fantasy myself, but this, this book is different in a good way! The story line is great, the emotions are raw and true, it's just outstanding!

Thanks to Heather @ www.mrssouthernbride.com for recommending this book to me! Yet another thing you've gotten me attached to, Heather, after coffee drinks and Nutella and Twilight! LOL ;-)