Shannon Whitney Messenger is an exuberant champion for MG. She started Marvelous Middle Grade Monday and I love the idea. So I'm shamelessly taking it, spreading it, and eating it with Nutella (everything is more delicious with Nutella and/or bacon). The book I'm spotlighting this week (mostly because I just finished reading it):
The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
Published in 2007. The first in the series. Other books in the series:
The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey (The Mysterious Benedict Society #2)
The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner's Dilemma (The Mysterious Benedict Society #3)
The Extraordinary Education of Nicholas Benedict (2012)
The Hook: Four uniquely gifted children are given a secret mission to save the world from an ominous subliminal threat.
Why I'm gushing: The clever puzzles Stewart weaves into the story had me guessing and then hitting my head in duh. The characters are well crafted and balanced each other well. Great tension and intrigue. An entertaining boy book that even my 8-year-old daughter will love.
Want more from the author? Listen to Trenton Lee Stewart talk about the book at the B&N Studio.
I reviewed the first book in the series quite recently, and agree that it is wonderful. I'm so glad you have a chance to talk about it for Marvelous Middle Grade Monday - what a terrific pick.
ReplyDeleteI'd also welcome your thoughts on my MMGM post today on Eva Ibbotson (over at MyComfyChair.blogspot.com). Such a great concept Shannon started, and I hope it spreads like wildfire.
Yay! I LOVE The Mysterious Benedict Society. So much fun! Have sold tons of copies of these books in the bookstore.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the sidebar link, Brooke (I don't always write about MG, though). I linked to you in my MMGM post today.