The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Riddle of Ages
| Company type | Children's book |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 2019 |
| Founder | Trenton Lee Stewart |
| Products | Children's literature |
The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Riddle of Ages is a children's book published in 2019, authored by Trenton Lee Stewart with illustrations by Manu Montoya. This title represents the fourth entry in the Mysterious Benedict Society series, succeeding The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner's Dilemma (2009).
Plot
Taking place several years after the events of the third novel, the story reunites Reynie, Sticky, Kate, and Constance at Mr. Benedict's residence. Reynie has received acceptance offers from elite universities, Sticky is invited to head a leading scientific laboratory, and Kate is undergoing training to follow in her father Milligan’s footsteps as a secret agent. Meanwhile, Constance, now matured with stronger telepathic powers, experiences feelings of being left behind. She has guided another telepath to Stonetown but must also confront the "Listener," a Helper whose memories were never restored by Mr. Benedict and who the Ten Men exploit to capture the Society. The Ten Men continue their efforts to liberate Mr. Curtain, who has imprisoned Mr. Benedict within his K.E.E.P security system. Additionally, the team must safeguard Tai Li, a young five-year-old telepath whom Constance brought to Stonetown.
Reception
The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Riddle of Ages was met with favorable critiques; Kirkus Reviews praised it as "clever as ever—if slow off the mark—and positively laden with tics, quirks, and puns." In 2019, it was also selected by the American Booksellers Association for inclusion in their ABC Best Books for Young Readers list.