The Mysterious Benedict Society is an engaging children's book full of puzzles, friendship, and adventure. In this four-week class, learners will participate in meaningful discussions and engaging activities as we read Trenton Stewart's introductory novel. Book clubs are an excellent way to engage reluctant readers or help enthusiastic readers dig a little deeper. Students will need their own copy of the text to complete assigned readings before attending class.

Whether your student has never heard of Mr. Benedict or is an enthusiastic fan on their third re-read, this class will be full of fun for all. We will explore the text and it's themes through discussion and a variety of engaging critical thinking activities. Class will be conducted in a casual, book club style with plenty of time for discussion. I will also read aloud important or exciting parts during class to enrich our discussion.

The reading schedule will be as follows:

Lesson 1: chapters 1-7 (pages 1-130)
Discussion and activities will focus on author and setting. What are we told about Stonetown? What can we infer? Students will practice using inference to understand setting.

Lesson 2: chapters 8-19 (pages 131-252)
Focus on character contrast and development. What characteristics defines each of the children? How do their different strengths make them a good team?

Lesson 3: chapters 20-31 (pages 253-370)
Focus on plot and predictions. We will work together to fill out a plot map with what we have read so far. After discussing this section, we will predict what we think will happen next.

Lesson 4: chapters 32-40 (371-end) 
Focus on themes developed through the story: Truth, friendship, and bravery.