Who would like this book? Lovers of mystery, orphans charged with saving the world, and good quotes.
Why? Reynie, an 11-year-old orphan, hates the orphanage so much that he takes up the suggestion of his beloved tutor and answers an advertisement that asks, “Are you a gifted child looking for Special Opportunities?” As Reynie proceeds through a series of clever, convoluted tests, there is no doubt that he is gifted. Sticky, Kate, and Constance Contraire also pass the tests, demonstrating a wide range of fascinating talents. The four are instructed by the mysterious Mr. Benedict that they must work together to defeat the evil Mr. Curtain, who is plotting to take over the world using a type of mind control. Mr. Curtain’s place of operation is an isolated boarding school called The Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened. The foursome go underground, posing as students in the school, while investigating Mr. Curtain’s plan. At the school the children must recite messages such as “You must work longer to have more time to relax” and “You must have war to have peace” as they navigate the bullying inherent in its system of “Messengers” and “Recruiters.” Their creative ingenuity, growing friendship, and Reynie’s reflections add depth to the page-turning plot that is filled with unexpected twists and wacky characters. It’s mainly a mystery that the reader is invited to help solve; explorations of mind control, bullying, and loyalty enrich the mystery, as do the many memorable quotes. This book is a 2010 Young Reader’s Choice Nominee in the Intermediate Division. Don’t miss it!
The details: 485 p. 2007 Submitted by Samrarian