A story of growth toward selflessness disguised as a mystery/adventure. A worthy addition (a prequel!) to the rip-roaring Benedict Society series, but also a great read on its own. Nine-year-old Nicholas Benedict, an orphan afflicted with an unfortunate nose and with narcolepsy, is sent to a new orphanage where he encounters vicious bullies, selfish adults, strange circumstances, and a mystery that could change his life forever. Illustrations.