The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart

"Are you a gifted child looking for Special Opportunities?" is advertised in the newspaper. A boy named Reynie, who always reads the paper with his tutor, decides to apply. He is subjected to a series of "tests" and passes along with 3 other children. These gifted children all have their own special talents and must learn how to work together as they embark on a mysterious and dangerous adventure.

I love the characters in this book. My family has had discussions about who is our favorite and who do we compare ourselves with the most. This is a thinker's book. It is not a can't-put-down thriller. But good. There are two more in the series. When I picked up the second book to read it was slow at first. Then I remembered, "oh yeah, these are my friends". A younger reader might not be able to read by themselves but it would be a great book to read to them.

Reading Level: grade 5 & up

Gender: boys & girls

Read-out-loud

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield

Margaret Lea is mysteriously invited to write the biography of a famous writer. As she listens to the story she is to write, she becomes entranced and ends up meeting her own destiny.

I didn't get into this story immediately, but once I did, I had a hard time putting it down. There are twists and intrigue. In fact, at the end I had to go back and re-read parts. This was a fun read and you could probably have some discussions especially about twins. The setting is England, somewhat modern day, though the story being recalled is obviously the past. There are many allusions to Jane Eyre, Woman in White, Wuthering Heights, and other classics. This is a book lovers book.