A prequel to the New York Timesbestselling Mysterious Benedict series!

'This book reminded me of some of the children's books I grew up with, like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The Phantom Tollbooth.' RICK RIORDAN, author of the PERCY JACKSONseries on book 1

'Like the Potter books, this story goes beyond mere adventure'BOOKLIST on book 1 Before there was the Mysterious Benedict Society, there was simply a nine-year-old orphan named Nicholas Benedict.

When Nicholas is sent to a new orphanage, he encounters vicious bullies, selfish adults - and a mystery that could change his life for ever.

On his quest to solve the mystery, Nicholas finds enemies around every corner, but also friends in unexpected places - and discovers along the way that the greatest puzzle of all is himself ...

• A prequel to the New York Timesbestselling adventure series - ideal for children aged 10 and up
• Join a group of smart and resourceful junior sleuths as they solve a series of page-turning puzzles and mysteries
• Perfect for fans of Robin Stevens's MURDER MOST UNLADYLIKE series