This is the final book in the Mysterious Benedict Society trilogy. The society consists of four supremely talented children: Constance, Reynie, Sticky and Kate.
The story starts at Mr Benedict’s house in Stonetown; Mr Benedict is an extremely kind genius who brought the children together originally. After their last mission (Book 2, The Perilous Journey) the children and their Guardians are living there in secret and are banned from leaving the house. Unfortunately something happens that upsets Constance and she runs away, leaving the others to go out and look for her. This leads to a chain of events which eventually leads to the children being captured by the Ten Men, the henchmen of the criminal mastermind Mr Curtain, who then holds the children prisoner.
As with the previous two books there is a battle between Mr Curtain and Mr Benedict for control of a machine called The Whisperer, which can manipulate people’s thoughts and memories. Will the teamwork of The Mysterious Benedict Society manage to foil the diabolical plans of Mr Curtain, or will it be curtains for the good guys? You will have to read the book to find out!
I have enjoyed reading this trilogy, and its prequel book (The Extraordinary Education of Nicholas Benedict) for several reasons. Firstly, the characters are all very different and have very contrasting skills and personalities, but they make use of their diverse talents to combine as a brilliant team. The author gives you loads of details to describe the characters and really makes you believe that these individuals exist. Secondly, I love the different codes and riddles that you have to solve along with the protagonists. Finally, in all of the books, the characters change as events unfold and they react to various incidents that take place.
I think these books would appeal to both boys and girls, and although they are long books the action moves quickly so they are very entertaining to read.
-
Buy this book at the Guardian Bookshop
