Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library

I think think this book deserves 5 stars because Chris Grabenstein has meticulously crafted a book full of adventure, fun, and mind boggling puzzles. You will celebrate with the characters when they have success and you will feel sorrow when a character is disqualified; Chris Grabenstein has made a book that brings all people together. Chris Grabenstein has created this book that all people can enjoy if you are a kid like me then you will enjoy the puzzles but if you are a grandparent or parent then you can get the satisfaction of seeing the growth of characters throughout the book. I recommend this book to anyone who needs just to get lost in a good place for a while and just embrace the characters and take it all in.

I am a 12 year old, and I absolutely loved it. I loved all the puzzles, wordplay, and games this book involves. This is now my 3rd time reading this and the ending still stumps me. I definitely recommend this book to all ages if you like being stumped by the clues you find every time you turn the page. The characters perfectly match the story and there fates. This reminded me that all you really need is a good book. I love this book!

Reasonably gentle book which involves a bit of mystery and suspense for the child who enjoys this sort of book. After giving it as a gift to an elementary school child, I read it as well and liked it, understanding it was a kid's book. The gift recipient would rather play Minecraft and has to be encouraged to read (even Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew) - but enjoys puzzles, spy movies and crosswords, so it seemed to fit his preferences.

My son had to read this for school and we read a chapter together, which then had me wanting to know how the children escaped from the Library as my son had read the rest of the book in class time. However my son didn't enjoy this book as much as I did.
The characters did need a little bit more substance to them, and the general story line was indicative of the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory story, which has much better characterization.
There are some good references to how a Library can be used and how a modern Library could be with holograms and architecture. There are also references to games created by Mr Lemoncello, who is like a Willy Wonker type character.

Grabenstein does a masterful job of incorporating book titles into the plot and dialogue of a gamer's adventure through a futuristic library. The story should appeal to 9-12 year olds who enjoy adventure, gaming, and/or anything associated with libraries. Follow this one with Grabenstein's "The Island of Dr. Libris!"

Required summer reading for middle school - my son picked it from the list because it seemed to have adventure. It didn't disappoint, also reinforced the love of reading and the importance of our public libraries. Highly recommend!

Mr. Lemoncello' library is amazing. If you have read a book, it is probably mentioned in this book. I didn't even catch all the hidden references, and I read books like Jeffery Maniac Magee runs. The puzzles are hard, but a smart reader can find the answer before the character s can. Plus, an extra puzzle is in the book, but not the story. The digital edition of the book also contains a hint to so love the puzzle. Overall, it is a fun book that I bought on my kindle because I loved it so much. And once you are done, you will have heard about so many other books, you will wish you were an everlasting Tuck just to have enough time to read them all! (Also, Monticello FTW!!)

The story of these kids trying to figure out clues to win a game with tons of riddles that tie in to classic literature titles and authors. My son (9) could barely get through it and I don't blame him. I think it should skew older (11, 12?)

This book is amazing because it's fun, friendly, and anyone can read it! When I started to read this book I kept on going, and usually I'll start reading a book and never finish it because I'll get so bored of it, but not for this one!

I believe that reading is imperative to a child's well being and success in life. This gift was purchased for a child I will never meet and donated as part of a mission outreach program. Toys are great, but a book can last a lifetime.

I am amazed this was the best best best book ever very "funfull" it's so amazing I couldn't even put it down. This book is very very amazing I recommend for everyone and I mean EVERYONE ??????????????

When the story is a good one, you're not supposed to notice the writing. But the farther you get in this one, the more you notice. By the final chapters, the author is working so hard to tell you where he's going that the book becomes more like a set of instructions minus the charm and subtleties.

This is a fairly conventional little mystery with some pleasant touches. Bits of cultural do-dads pop up ranging from Rocky (the film, not the squirrel), to Metallica, to Jack Lord, to the non-do-dad Mozart. Newberry Medal winners appear, surely a proper thing for a story about children locked in a library. Overall, however, what you get is a clot of pre-fab 12-year-olds dealing with the usual personality types 12-year-olds deal with in scores of books kin to this one.

There are some modest compensations. First, as these children scramble back to freedom, all of them are focused on books -- bound books with pages made of real paper. That alone is a refreshing touch in this time of pad, pod, and power point. Second, and equally encouraging, several times the characters use real pens to write on actual note paper. True, all electronic devices were confiscated when the characters were locked in the library so they had few options. Yet the fact remains that they still own pens and paper and know how to use them. How much longer for that in the electronic device world?

The main trouble with the book is that by repeating and reconstituting the clues so often, the story's ribs and tricks start showing. It's the kind of writing that drags the story into the realm of "get-it-over-with" from which escape is more relief than reward.

Loved this book. So much fun, super weird and you can sort of solve the mysteries as you go. Also its filled with recommendations for other books. Great for parents and kids to read together. I couldn't stay away from this book, I love suspense. BUY THIS BOOK!!!!!

Bella, age nine

I am an enthusiastic reader and I love Harry Potter and greek mythology. But, when I read the lemoncello book my mind was blown! There were so many riddles and things to solve. I can't wait to read the next one!

best book ever!!! my kindle was at 1% because I was trying to finish it but it was worth it because there was so much suspense and you never knew what was going to happen next! it is the most amazing book ever in history!!

This book was so late it was presumed lost. At least the seller issued me a refund. However, when the book arrived a month later it was not even saleable condition. The book has multiple pages scrawled with racial slurs and is not suitable for reading.

Didn't live up to the appealing premise. The real downside to this book is that it could have been so much better. Not much effort at characterization or plot. Not particularly literary despite the many references to children's literature. Even the puzzles weren't that interesting. Way too derivative - it's a rip-off of better written older books. Read Charlie and The Chocolate Factory,The Westing Game or The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler instead of this lesser imitation. Rebecca Stead's When You Reach Me paid homage to A Wrinkle in Time in an original and interesting way. This book tries and fails to do the same sort of thing with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I think this one's gotten all the good reviews because it's inoffensive and light. It's not particularly well-written so it's never going to be a classic and adults will find it boring, but a young kid could still enjoy reading it. Borrow this one from the library, but not worth buying since it's probably not one kids will revisit over and over again.

This book was better than awesome!!!If you like books,puzzles or libraries,this book will be very good to you!!!I love to read and I have to say,this is probably one of the best books I have ever read.....it was the best!!!!!!! Not a waste of money!!!!Not at all.....

An interesting story that reminded me of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I do like the underlying idea, but the tone of the writing was aimed at a younger audience than I expected. I think this impacted my enjoyment.

Overall, this one didn't really do it for me, I found it quite boring and skimmed in places (very unusual for me) with a goal of getting to the end as quickly as possible. I actually escaped the library at 63% (sorry:)

Redeeming quality is that it's fast-paced. Otherwise the characters are flat and one-dimensional and the story doesn't hold up as being consistent, with lots of events happening seemingly thrown in at random because it would be convenient to the plot rather than having the characters have to tackle the actual problem. The character development is essentially zero. This book tries too hard to integrate current popular trends, like facebook and twitter, in a way that feels artificial.

Highly overrated.
Exploits various famous titles for children (in a mixed-up selection) and... the potential interest a children's librarian should have for the book.

Lacks humous, lacks a clear moral of the story.

Great book that my 7-year-old and I really enjoyed reading together. This is a fast-paced book and those who enjoy solving puzzles and riddles are sure to enjoy this book. You can work along with our hero Kyle and his team of friends as they try to solve the puzzle of how to escape from the library designed by the famous, weathly, and quite eccentric game inventor/manufacturer, Luigi Lemoncello. This book is especially satisfying because the good guys triumph handily over the bad guys! I always love that! I also love books so I particularly enjoyed all the references to literature not only in the game itself but almost everything Mr. Lemoncello said cleverly contained a book title! Once Mr. Lemoncello, "My favorite kind of cookies," and my daughter asked what book he was referencing. I told her I did not think that was actually a book title that time. She was unconvinced so we had to look it up to be sure! This book did remind me of a lot of good books to add to our to-read list!

First in the Mr. Lemoncello's Library adventurous mystery series for middle-grade readers and revolving around a gamesman’s sense of fun. The focus is on the cheeky young Kyle Keeley, an adoring fan, who lives in Alexandriaville, Ohio.

Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library has won or been nominated for a multitude of awards: In 2016, it won the Grand Canyon Reader Award for Intermediate, the Golden Sower Award for Chapter Book, the Pacific Northwest Library Association Young Reader’s Choice Award for Junior Division, the Maud Hart Lovelace Book Award, the William Allen White Children’s Book Award, the Magnolia Award, the Virginia Reader’s Choice for Elementary, the Mark Twain Readers Award, and the Volunteer State Book Award for Intermediate (3–5).

In 2015, Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library won the Garden State Book Award, the Maryland Black-Eyed Susan Book Award for Grades 4–6, the Blue Hen Book Award for Best Children’s/Young Adult’s Novel, the Maine Student Book Award, the Flicker Tale Children’s Book Award for Juvenile Books, the Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children’s Book Award, and the Rhode Island Children’s Book Award.

In 2014, it won the Sunshine State Young Readers Award for Elementary (Grades 3–5), the Great Stone Face Award, and the Buckeye Children’s Book Award for 3–5.

In 2013, it won the Agatha Award for Best Children's/Young Adult Novel.

Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library was nominated in 2016 for the Bluestem Book Award and the Young Hoosier Book Award, in 2015 for the Pennsylvania Young Readers’ Choice Award for Grades 6–8, and 2014 for the Anthony Award for Best Children’s or Young Adult Novel.

It’s also a television movie released in 2017 by Nickelodeon.

My Take
It’s all about learning, never giving up, and the importance of working as a team…and how fabulous the library is…especially once you learn how to use it! Grabenstein turns it all into a game, a great game that could inspire your own kids to make use of the library…or at least the idea of how knowledge can be useful. Lord knows, Grabenstein had me stumped on a number of clues.

I’d have to agree with the assessment that Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library is a “cross between [Roald Dahl's] Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and [the film and novelization of] A Night in the Museum ”, as “Chris Grabenstein uses rib-tickling humor to create the perfect tale for his quirky characters … with the crafty twists and turns of this ultimate library experience” with interactive possibilities. It’s helpful that he uses a third person omniscient point-of-view to allow us to “listen in” to the thoughts and feelings and “watch” the actions of different kids as they pursue the game.

I did love the concept of the initial scavenger game the boys played, although I’m not sure parents would be too pleased with it. Then again, it focuses on a young man who isn’t big on books, but does adore games of all sorts. If this adventure can get Kyle to want to read, well… I had to laugh as Kyle keeps finding books he wants to read…YES!!

I suppose you could consider this a fantasy book as well, since the too-funny Mr. Lemoncello is too odd for words, and as for a world-famous librarian…? Well, who’da thunk? And the money spent on the library…whoa!! Then all those parents being cool with their kids having to "escape" the library? Only in books, lol.

I do like Kyle, and he has quite a generous spirit. Grabenstein’s other characters run the gamut of types with those with a sense of responsibility, those who hide behind a mask, those with a “superior” air, and the cheaters.

The story is FULL of foreshadowing, that was obvious to me afterwards! Better not count on me in these games!
”A library doesn’t need windows, Andrew. We have books, which are windows into worlds we never even dreamed possible.”
It’s going on my buy list! And if you want to encourage your kids to think outside the box and find learning fun, you'll be picking it up too.

The Story
The real challenge isn’t getting IN to Mr. Lemoncello’s library, it's getting OUT!

Twelve-year-old Kyle Keeley enters an essay contest and wins an overnight stay in his hometown’s new and technologically enhanced town library funded by Mr. Lemoncello, a game board creator.

Once inside the library, Kyle and his fellow essay winners discover they will need to play their way out of the library, using clues left by Mr. Lemoncello in the ultimate board game come to life!

The Characters
Kyle Keeley is twelve with a love for games...but not for books. Mike is his oldest brother, seventeen, and a high school superstar jock. Curtis is fifteen and the more intellectual of the three. Their parents are keen on the kids being active.

Kyle’s fellow students
Akimi Hughes is one of Kyle’s particular friends. The super enthusiastic Miguel Fernandez is president of the school’s Library Aide Society. Sierra Russell always has her nose buried in a book. Her parents have recently split up. The snooty, brown-nosing Charles Chiltington (his uncle, James F. Willoughby, III, is the head librarian of the Library of Congress) knows he's the best. Andrew Peckleman is a library aide. Haley Daley is the class “princess”. Bridgette Wadge, Yasmeen Smith-Snyder, Sean Keegan, Rose Vermette, and Kayla Corson are more students who won the contest. Mrs. Dana Cameron is Kyle’s homeroom teacher. Mrs. Yunghans is the school librarian.

Mr. Luigi Lemoncello is a master game maker whose games are always a little goofy around the edges. Just like him. He was born in Alexandriaville into an Italian family with nine siblings. Dr. Yanina Zinchenko is a world-famous librarian who will be the new head librarian. Gail Tobin had been the librarian back when Mr. Lemoncello was a boy.

Twinky is the neighbor’s Doberman.

The Cover and Title
The cover is grayed-out color-wise in its minty greens, pinks, yellows, and blues. It’s definitely all about the game with its dot counters, die, and spin-the-wheel with the silhouette of kids interacting with the library. There’s one sitting atop a slanted “billboard” announcing the title in a combination of script font (in white) and a gradated yellow in a showy circus-type of font with a minty green balloon, all against a deep green background bordered in layers of white. It’s a clever way to announce the series information as well. There’s a gray striped kitty stretching atop a wooden bookcase and what looks like a vintage minty green phonograph horn silhouetted against a pale gray full moon in the upper right corner of a gradated green sky full of sparkling white stars and lines of those game counters in pastel colors. Below the “billboard” is a sweeping curve of staircase leading up with bookcases on either side and more game counters on the stairs and spreading out onto the floor. Another silhouette is pulling down hard on the arrow of the wheel on the lower right while another is walking along, engrossed in her book, and the fourth silhouette is prancing past the stairway. The author’s name uses the same circus-style font in white, centered at the bottom.

The title is the name of the game, Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library.

Kyle Keely loves all sorts of games, from board games to video games. So, when Kyle learns that Mr. Lemoncello, the most famous game maker ever, is responsible for the construction of the new library and is having a lock-in for the opening, Kyle knows he has to be there. Twelve essay winning seventh graders will be selected to be the first people inside the library, where they will be allowed to explore and spend the night locked in the library. Kyle is determined to be one of the essay winners.
Mr. Lemoncello built the library because for twelve years his hometown of Alexandriaville has not had a public library. Without the library, where Mr. Lemoncello spent a considerable amount as a child, he would not have been the success he was today. But being the king of games, he has to make this the most fun library around, especially for the lock-in.
Kyle and the other winners will have to use all of their instincts and knowledge to play the games in the library and to win the grand prize once they escape the library.
This was an amazing read with fascinating trivia, and intriguing characters. The mystery around the game and how the different characters go about playing the games and solving the riddles is extremely entertaining.
Kyle Keely is an intriguing character with an amazing strategical ability that he easily applies to solving this new game. Between his love of games and his natural leader qualities, Kyle makes the perfect protagonist for this story.
I am a self-proclaimed bibliophile and proud of that fact. I have read many novels in my life and many classics. This book, however, made me feel like a novice with the many book related trivia questions.
The character of Mr. Lemoncello reminded me a lot of Willy Wonka, in both appearance and personality. He loves what he does and he loves books. His wacky, outlandish clothing options and the way he talks in riddles from time to time makes me think of Willy Wonka, except with games and books instead of chocolate.
I absolutely loved how this novel brought out the best aspects of the library and found a way for the library, all libraries everywhere, to appeal to children.
I would recommend this novel to fans of “The Pagemaster” and “Book Scavenger” by Jennifer Chambers Bertman.
I bought my copy of this novel at Goodwill and have permission from the publishers at Penguin Random House to use an image of the cover artwork above.

I'll be keeping this one on the shelf I'm building for Minishine and Babybows for when they are older.

It is a joyous romp through the world of literature and libraries, cleverly aimed at a generation who may be more familiar with computer games (in both content and structure), and incorporating the joy of board games and old-fashioned puzzles along the way. Basically adult approval is guaranteed because it is practically educational, yet at no point does the story get bogged down with stuffiness or preaching: just action, puzzles and friendship-building all the way.

There are obvious comparisons to Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which are acknowledged throughout the book with subtle nods and outright comments on the subject. As well as the similar plotline, there is the same exuberant gleeful childishness in both works. However whilst Roald Dahl's classic was about the various vices of naughty children and their comeuppance, rewarding the 'pure of heart', Chris Grabenstein's novel is an ode to teamwork and cooperation which shows the various individuals breaking their stereotypes in order to combine their strengths and share in the outcome. The only children to 'lose' altogether are the ones who choose to lie, cheat and steal in order to further their own ends at the expense of others.

My only gripe with this book was that the puzzle of the main plotline could only be solved alongside the characters because you needed their uncovering of the clues in order to make sense of what was happening, whereas I would have liked more puzzles that the reader could solve for themself as they went along. Still, the reliance on the work of others in order to resolve the problem fits with the core moral of working together, so I can't really complain about the reader being made part of the team too! And the author throws in side puzzles and quizzes for the competitive reader along the way.

All-in-all I can thoroughly recommend this book for 8 to 12 year olds who love books, games or gaming. And I can safely recommend it to their parents too!

“A library doesn’t need windows, Andrew. We have books, which are windows into worlds we never even dreamed possible.”

- Chris Grabenstein, Escape From Mr Lemoncello's Library

Kyle Keeley and his family are obsessed with the board games of Luigi Lemoncello, a celebrity game designer and flamboyant billionaire. When Kyle’s hometown announces the construction of a new library after 12 long years, the buzz turns into a frenzy when it’s revealed that Mr. Lemoncello has funded and designed the new building! Kyle is among a handful of kids who’ve been hand-selected to receive the first library cards, and also to participate in an overnight lock-in adventure. They’re allowed to use only their wits and the library’s resources to solve a number of clues, and the first person who makes it out of the building will receive the grand prize!

One of the great things about this particular book is the number of mysteries and puzzles included with the story. Heavy readers will be tickled to see some of their favorite books included as clues, although I’d be impressed with any kid who’s actually read all the referenced texts! What really makes this book, though, are the picture rebuses included as clues. Reading this book is like being part of a madcap treasure hunt, and that means that you’re instantly sucked into the plot. “Mr. Lemoncello’s Library” and its sequel are a matching pair of fast-paced, exciting and most importantly, fun books which deserve a spot on every kid’s bookshelf.

I know what you are thinking- she works in a library so of course she is going to love this book. You would be correct! It is wonderful and I can't wait to show it to all our patrons! Mr. Lemoncello is an eccentric board game inventor who has donated a public library in his small hometown. This is the ultimate in technology, fun and creativity and a select few will get to spend the night in it before it opens to the public. What quirky Mr. Lemoncello doesn't share with the lucky winners is that they will have to solve a series of puzzles to escape. It is Jeopardy! mixed with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory mixed with The Mixed Up Files of Basil E. Frankweiler and the game of Clue! Full of action and wonderful challenging puzzles (I got giddy when I was able to solve some of the clues). Author Chris Grabenstein knows how to grab the attention of middle schoolers since he is the co-author of the popular series with James Patterson. This is a wonderful trip down memory lane for the parents, one all night Trivial Pursuit game and my personal favorite book this year!

Highly overrated.
Exploits various famous titles for children (in a mixed-up selection) and... the potential interest a children's librarian should have for the book.

Lacks humous, lacks a clear moral of the story.

Great book that my 7-year-old and I really enjoyed reading together. This is a fast-paced book and those who enjoy solving puzzles and riddles are sure to enjoy this book. You can work along with our hero Kyle and his team of friends as they try to solve the puzzle of how to escape from the library designed by the famous, weathly, and quite eccentric game inventor/manufacturer, Luigi Lemoncello. This book is especially satisfying because the good guys triumph handily over the bad guys! I always love that! I also love books so I particularly enjoyed all the references to literature not only in the game itself but almost everything Mr. Lemoncello said cleverly contained a book title! Once Mr. Lemoncello, "My favorite kind of cookies," and my daughter asked what book he was referencing. I told her I did not think that was actually a book title that time. She was unconvinced so we had to look it up to be sure! This book did remind me of a lot of good books to add to our to-read list!

First in the Mr. Lemoncello's Library adventurous mystery series for middle-grade readers and revolving around a gamesman’s sense of fun. The focus is on the cheeky young Kyle Keeley, an adoring fan, who lives in Alexandriaville, Ohio.

Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library has won or been nominated for a multitude of awards: In 2016, it won the Grand Canyon Reader Award for Intermediate, the Golden Sower Award for Chapter Book, the Pacific Northwest Library Association Young Reader’s Choice Award for Junior Division, the Maud Hart Lovelace Book Award, the William Allen White Children’s Book Award, the Magnolia Award, the Virginia Reader’s Choice for Elementary, the Mark Twain Readers Award, and the Volunteer State Book Award for Intermediate (3–5).

In 2015, Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library won the Garden State Book Award, the Maryland Black-Eyed Susan Book Award for Grades 4–6, the Blue Hen Book Award for Best Children’s/Young Adult’s Novel, the Maine Student Book Award, the Flicker Tale Children’s Book Award for Juvenile Books, the Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children’s Book Award, and the Rhode Island Children’s Book Award.

In 2014, it won the Sunshine State Young Readers Award for Elementary (Grades 3–5), the Great Stone Face Award, and the Buckeye Children’s Book Award for 3–5.

In 2013, it won the Agatha Award for Best Children's/Young Adult Novel.

Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library was nominated in 2016 for the Bluestem Book Award and the Young Hoosier Book Award, in 2015 for the Pennsylvania Young Readers’ Choice Award for Grades 6–8, and 2014 for the Anthony Award for Best Children’s or Young Adult Novel.

It’s also a television movie released in 2017 by Nickelodeon.

My Take
It’s all about learning, never giving up, and the importance of working as a team…and how fabulous the library is…especially once you learn how to use it! Grabenstein turns it all into a game, a great game that could inspire your own kids to make use of the library…or at least the idea of how knowledge can be useful. Lord knows, Grabenstein had me stumped on a number of clues.

I’d have to agree with the assessment that Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library is a “cross between [Roald Dahl's] Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and [the film and novelization of] A Night in the Museum ”, as “Chris Grabenstein uses rib-tickling humor to create the perfect tale for his quirky characters … with the crafty twists and turns of this ultimate library experience” with interactive possibilities. It’s helpful that he uses a third person omniscient point-of-view to allow us to “listen in” to the thoughts and feelings and “watch” the actions of different kids as they pursue the game.

I did love the concept of the initial scavenger game the boys played, although I’m not sure parents would be too pleased with it. Then again, it focuses on a young man who isn’t big on books, but does adore games of all sorts. If this adventure can get Kyle to want to read, well… I had to laugh as Kyle keeps finding books he wants to read…YES!!

I suppose you could consider this a fantasy book as well, since the too-funny Mr. Lemoncello is too odd for words, and as for a world-famous librarian…? Well, who’da thunk? And the money spent on the library…whoa!! Then all those parents being cool with their kids having to "escape" the library? Only in books, lol.

I do like Kyle, and he has quite a generous spirit. Grabenstein’s other characters run the gamut of types with those with a sense of responsibility, those who hide behind a mask, those with a “superior” air, and the cheaters.

The story is FULL of foreshadowing, that was obvious to me afterwards! Better not count on me in these games!
”A library doesn’t need windows, Andrew. We have books, which are windows into worlds we never even dreamed possible.”
It’s going on my buy list! And if you want to encourage your kids to think outside the box and find learning fun, you'll be picking it up too.

The Story
The real challenge isn’t getting IN to Mr. Lemoncello’s library, it's getting OUT!

Twelve-year-old Kyle Keeley enters an essay contest and wins an overnight stay in his hometown’s new and technologically enhanced town library funded by Mr. Lemoncello, a game board creator.

Once inside the library, Kyle and his fellow essay winners discover they will need to play their way out of the library, using clues left by Mr. Lemoncello in the ultimate board game come to life!

The Characters
Kyle Keeley is twelve with a love for games...but not for books. Mike is his oldest brother, seventeen, and a high school superstar jock. Curtis is fifteen and the more intellectual of the three. Their parents are keen on the kids being active.

Kyle’s fellow students
Akimi Hughes is one of Kyle’s particular friends. The super enthusiastic Miguel Fernandez is president of the school’s Library Aide Society. Sierra Russell always has her nose buried in a book. Her parents have recently split up. The snooty, brown-nosing Charles Chiltington (his uncle, James F. Willoughby, III, is the head librarian of the Library of Congress) knows he's the best. Andrew Peckleman is a library aide. Haley Daley is the class “princess”. Bridgette Wadge, Yasmeen Smith-Snyder, Sean Keegan, Rose Vermette, and Kayla Corson are more students who won the contest. Mrs. Dana Cameron is Kyle’s homeroom teacher. Mrs. Yunghans is the school librarian.

Mr. Luigi Lemoncello is a master game maker whose games are always a little goofy around the edges. Just like him. He was born in Alexandriaville into an Italian family with nine siblings. Dr. Yanina Zinchenko is a world-famous librarian who will be the new head librarian. Gail Tobin had been the librarian back when Mr. Lemoncello was a boy.

Twinky is the neighbor’s Doberman.

The Cover and Title
The cover is grayed-out color-wise in its minty greens, pinks, yellows, and blues. It’s definitely all about the game with its dot counters, die, and spin-the-wheel with the silhouette of kids interacting with the library. There’s one sitting atop a slanted “billboard” announcing the title in a combination of script font (in white) and a gradated yellow in a showy circus-type of font with a minty green balloon, all against a deep green background bordered in layers of white. It’s a clever way to announce the series information as well. There’s a gray striped kitty stretching atop a wooden bookcase and what looks like a vintage minty green phonograph horn silhouetted against a pale gray full moon in the upper right corner of a gradated green sky full of sparkling white stars and lines of those game counters in pastel colors. Below the “billboard” is a sweeping curve of staircase leading up with bookcases on either side and more game counters on the stairs and spreading out onto the floor. Another silhouette is pulling down hard on the arrow of the wheel on the lower right while another is walking along, engrossed in her book, and the fourth silhouette is prancing past the stairway. The author’s name uses the same circus-style font in white, centered at the bottom.

The title is the name of the game, Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library.

Kyle Keely loves all sorts of games, from board games to video games. So, when Kyle learns that Mr. Lemoncello, the most famous game maker ever, is responsible for the construction of the new library and is having a lock-in for the opening, Kyle knows he has to be there. Twelve essay winning seventh graders will be selected to be the first people inside the library, where they will be allowed to explore and spend the night locked in the library. Kyle is determined to be one of the essay winners.
Mr. Lemoncello built the library because for twelve years his hometown of Alexandriaville has not had a public library. Without the library, where Mr. Lemoncello spent a considerable amount as a child, he would not have been the success he was today. But being the king of games, he has to make this the most fun library around, especially for the lock-in.
Kyle and the other winners will have to use all of their instincts and knowledge to play the games in the library and to win the grand prize once they escape the library.
This was an amazing read with fascinating trivia, and intriguing characters. The mystery around the game and how the different characters go about playing the games and solving the riddles is extremely entertaining.
Kyle Keely is an intriguing character with an amazing strategical ability that he easily applies to solving this new game. Between his love of games and his natural leader qualities, Kyle makes the perfect protagonist for this story.
I am a self-proclaimed bibliophile and proud of that fact. I have read many novels in my life and many classics. This book, however, made me feel like a novice with the many book related trivia questions.
The character of Mr. Lemoncello reminded me a lot of Willy Wonka, in both appearance and personality. He loves what he does and he loves books. His wacky, outlandish clothing options and the way he talks in riddles from time to time makes me think of Willy Wonka, except with games and books instead of chocolate.
I absolutely loved how this novel brought out the best aspects of the library and found a way for the library, all libraries everywhere, to appeal to children.
I would recommend this novel to fans of “The Pagemaster” and “Book Scavenger” by Jennifer Chambers Bertman.
I bought my copy of this novel at Goodwill and have permission from the publishers at Penguin Random House to use an image of the cover artwork above.

WHOA! Best book I’ve read in awhile. I’ve heard good things about this book but just haven’t gotten around to reading it…until today.

Kyle is a fan of any sort of game. The youngest of three, he’s often overshadowed by his older brothers. A public library is opening in town for the first time in 12 years. An essay contest is being held for 12 year olds who have never had a public library, and 12 winners will be selected to attend a lock in before the secretive library opens. Kyle turns in an essay he wrote on the bus that morning, but when he finds out the lock in will be full of games, he hunts down Mr. Lemoncello’s email address and turns in a much better essay. After the lock in, they find out that they have 24 hours to solve puzzles to escape the library, and the first one out wins a large prize package.

This book reminded me a bit of the Benedict Society books, but written for a little younger age range. The puzzles were awesome and had me playing along, and the protagonists are clearly likable and the antagonist clearly defined. I don’t think a smile left my face the whole time I was reading it. I’m going with 10 of 10 for enjoyment and 5 of 5 for readability! (That’s high praise-I wouldn’t give that out for very many books!)

I'll be keeping this one on the shelf I'm building for Minishine and Babybows for when they are older.

It is a joyous romp through the world of literature and libraries, cleverly aimed at a generation who may be more familiar with computer games (in both content and structure), and incorporating the joy of board games and old-fashioned puzzles along the way. Basically adult approval is guaranteed because it is practically educational, yet at no point does the story get bogged down with stuffiness or preaching: just action, puzzles and friendship-building all the way.

There are obvious comparisons to Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which are acknowledged throughout the book with subtle nods and outright comments on the subject. As well as the similar plotline, there is the same exuberant gleeful childishness in both works. However whilst Roald Dahl's classic was about the various vices of naughty children and their comeuppance, rewarding the 'pure of heart', Chris Grabenstein's novel is an ode to teamwork and cooperation which shows the various individuals breaking their stereotypes in order to combine their strengths and share in the outcome. The only children to 'lose' altogether are the ones who choose to lie, cheat and steal in order to further their own ends at the expense of others.

My only gripe with this book was that the puzzle of the main plotline could only be solved alongside the characters because you needed their uncovering of the clues in order to make sense of what was happening, whereas I would have liked more puzzles that the reader could solve for themself as they went along. Still, the reliance on the work of others in order to resolve the problem fits with the core moral of working together, so I can't really complain about the reader being made part of the team too! And the author throws in side puzzles and quizzes for the competitive reader along the way.

All-in-all I can thoroughly recommend this book for 8 to 12 year olds who love books, games or gaming. And I can safely recommend it to their parents too!

“A library doesn’t need windows, Andrew. We have books, which are windows into worlds we never even dreamed possible.”

- Chris Grabenstein, Escape From Mr Lemoncello's Library

Kyle Keeley and his family are obsessed with the board games of Luigi Lemoncello, a celebrity game designer and flamboyant billionaire. When Kyle’s hometown announces the construction of a new library after 12 long years, the buzz turns into a frenzy when it’s revealed that Mr. Lemoncello has funded and designed the new building! Kyle is among a handful of kids who’ve been hand-selected to receive the first library cards, and also to participate in an overnight lock-in adventure. They’re allowed to use only their wits and the library’s resources to solve a number of clues, and the first person who makes it out of the building will receive the grand prize!

One of the great things about this particular book is the number of mysteries and puzzles included with the story. Heavy readers will be tickled to see some of their favorite books included as clues, although I’d be impressed with any kid who’s actually read all the referenced texts! What really makes this book, though, are the picture rebuses included as clues. Reading this book is like being part of a madcap treasure hunt, and that means that you’re instantly sucked into the plot. “Mr. Lemoncello’s Library” and its sequel are a matching pair of fast-paced, exciting and most importantly, fun books which deserve a spot on every kid’s bookshelf.

I know what you are thinking- she works in a library so of course she is going to love this book. You would be correct! It is wonderful and I can't wait to show it to all our patrons! Mr. Lemoncello is an eccentric board game inventor who has donated a public library in his small hometown. This is the ultimate in technology, fun and creativity and a select few will get to spend the night in it before it opens to the public. What quirky Mr. Lemoncello doesn't share with the lucky winners is that they will have to solve a series of puzzles to escape. It is Jeopardy! mixed with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory mixed with The Mixed Up Files of Basil E. Frankweiler and the game of Clue! Full of action and wonderful challenging puzzles (I got giddy when I was able to solve some of the clues). Author Chris Grabenstein knows how to grab the attention of middle schoolers since he is the co-author of the popular series with James Patterson. This is a wonderful trip down memory lane for the parents, one all night Trivial Pursuit game and my personal favorite book this year!

Title: Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library
Series Number: Mr. Lemoncello's Library #1
Author: Chris Grabenstein

Themes: There are different paths to the same destination. Working together is better. There are many ways to win a game. Rules are there to make the game fun for everyone, not to be annoying or broken.

One Sentence Summary: Twelve 12-year-olds get to walk into the new library first, now they get to play a game to figure out how to get out!

What I Liked:
The whimsy of the library structure and game play. There were a number of times where players got unexpected bonuses, which changed the flow of the game.

Lemoncello himself was quite the fun character, and his particularly competent secretary was awesome.

The puzzles and clues that kids can figure out but weren't too ridiculous/easy.

Disliked:
Most of the characters were fairly shallow. The most notably annoying was the main villain who seemed to be evil because he was born rich and didn't think that rules affected him. (Refusing to learn the theme that rules are there to make the game fun, not to be broken.) It's a kids book, so I say this with a grain of salt, it's still enjoyable.

Rating:
7/10 – Good read, with a little more depth the authors next book could be great. Might or might not recommend to friends.(To that effect, this is probably a good choice for a 8-12 year-old who likes action/games/puzzles. Otherwise there are more suitable books out there.)

This book is exciting and hooks me in to read more. The setting of this book is at Mr. Lemoncello’s library. In this story they go to they library because they won a contest to spend the night there. They find out that they need need to escape to get home. They all start to team up to use their clues together to get out.

The main characters in this book are Luigi Lemoncello, Dr.Yanina Zinchenko, Mrs.Tobin, Kyle Keeley, Charles Chiltington, Akimi Hughes, Andrew Peckleman, Haley Daley, Sierra Russel, and Miguel Fernandez. The main character in this story is Kyle. Kyle is a character that loves board games. He is determined to find his way out of the library. He loves Mr. Lemoncello and his games. This book is very good and interesting. It teaches you problem solving as well well reading.This is a very good book. I prefer this book to anyone who is a problem solver. I think this book is worth reading.

Madison
7th Grade Teacher

Consider Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, filled with wonders you never knew you hungered for until Mr. Wonka introduced you to them. Now imagine the same creativity and amazement, but in a library instead of a chocolate factory. In this library, you can speak to a holographic representation of your ancestors; you can explore a medieval castle and its sewers via a video game, complete with smell-a-vision. You can read, read, read. And now, imagine locking twelve twelve-year-olds into that library (with their and their parents’ permission), where they will read books and play games to find a secret escape route. The first to escape wins a marvelous prize. As Mr. Lemoncello, the billionaire patron of the library, describes it, “It’ll be like The Hunger Games but with lots of food and no bows or arrows.”

I read this book aloud to my ten-year-old and my eight-year-old, and we all loved it. As one character describes reading a great book, “It was like he was watching a 3-D IMAX movie in his head.” My favorite children’s book of all time is Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, by Roald Dahl; this is a worthy homage for any bibliophile. I highly recommend it.

Do you like genres and challenges? Inside Mr.Lemencello’s,Library a boy and his friends face off in a fantastic game.

In this book,Kyle Keeley and his friends face off against mean Charles Chiltington in Mr.Lemencello’s library game.Charles uses his mind to cheat.What will Kyle do to win the game?

One of the reasons I like this book is because the author has people think to solve the mysteries.It is so difficult that you sometimes have to do it on paper.Second is because I like Chris Grabenstein’s books.He writes the book The Island of Dr.Libris.He writes a bunch of other great books too.My final reason is because Chris Grabenstein does show not tell.He’s very descriptive and makes it interesting so you want to read to the end.

That is why I think you should read Mr.Lemencello’s Library by, Chris Grabenstein.

The book’s dust jacket describes it as a cross between Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and the film Night at the Museum; however, I found it more of equal parts Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The View from Saturday, and Key to the Treasure (Liza, Bill & Jed Mysteries): children with different abilities banding together to win a contest of puzzles and growing into true friendship.

After 12 years without any library at all, Alexandriaville, Ohio (nod to the famed Library of Alexandria) gets a state-of-the-art new library courtesy of Luigi Lemoncello, an immigrant boy turned billionaire, the most famous and creative producer of games of every type: board games, card games, videogames, and puzzles. He credits his success to the Alexandriaville library and its empathetic librarian, Mrs. Gail Tobin, who took the young Luigi under her wing and went above and beyond for him, even improving his English.

Twelve-year-old Kyle Keeley isn’t much of a reader. (That would be his older brother Curtis or his best friend Akimi Hughes.) But he’s a fanatic for all types of games, most of them by Mr. Lemoncello. He lucks into being one of the 12 fortunate children who get to spend the night at the new library. And he can’t resist the challenge of joining a contest in which he escapes from the new library in return for a fabulous prize. To tell any more would be to ruin this wonderful book, but I can say that savored every page, loved the puzzles and appreciated the message that cooperation and empathy beat selfishness and deceit every time. Highly, highly recommended to kids and kids at heart.

Last but not least, while Kyle isn’t initially an avid reader and, therefore, unfamiliar with many of the titles mentioned, we bibliophiles will thrill at the mention of so many wonderful books, written for children and adults.

When the jacket flap of a YA book says something like “the stakes have never been higher,” it is usually a life or death situation. Not so with Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library. It is a middle grade novel, so the protagonist Kyle is 12 and there is no violence, sex, or even peril. The plot is simply a group of kids playing a game and piecing together clues to escape from a very high tech library.

Am I making the book sound boring? I hope not.

The book is a puzzler (a sub-genre of mystery books) and so if you enjoy figuring out clues this is a very enjoyable and easy read. Grabenstein does a phenomenal job of mixing in board game and video game strategies and adds a truly impressive amount of references to famous works of children’s literature.

A well written mystery, and especially a well written puzzler leads the reader along and allows them to solve the mystery just before the characters do. It is quite difficult to do, yet Grabenstein does it very well.

My main criticism is that the characters were not well developed, though I have to admit that it is rather common in puzzle mysteries. Everything is secondary to the clues, and the clues in Escape from Mr Lemoncello’s Library are top notch.

I downloaded this from Overdrive to listen to with my kids when taking them to riding lessons, to the library, and all the other great places mom’s get to chauffeur their children to. The story is about Kyle, and his adventure through the brand new public library.

I can certainly understand how the book is considered a cross between Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and A Night in the Museum. The descriptions not only of the characters, but the library really helped myself and my children have a great understanding of what the library looks like, and we easily imagined ourselves walking around with Kyle and his friends.

Overall I enjoyed the book and the puzzles within. The great thing about listening to a book, or reading one like this with your children is that you get to hear their reactions– gasps at near misses, cheers when the nice guy isn’t eliminated — but you also get to travel through the story with them, gasping and cheering at the same things.

Enjoy my review? Read them all at the-pink-moose.com

This is a fun well written story sure to please the middle elementary to middle school age group. My fourth-graders love it! A random group of students participating in an essay contest hopefully to win a night of lock-in at a new customized and intriguingly eventful library. Will they work alone to capture fame and glory, or will they one-by-one find ways to work together as a team?.... Some are, and some are not team driven .... will that hurt or help them? Can they find all the clues? Will the clues they find help them escape from the library? Will they know how to use all the clues they find? Is the need to win more important than playing fair? So many details, so much fun... get to know the characters; a highly recommended book.

4.5 stars

What a fun read! The book is about 12 kids that get to spend the night in a super cool new library designed by a famous game-maker. Once inside, they are invited to play a game where they are challenged to “escape” from the library and receive a prize. The catch? They only have 24 hours to do it, and the library is, well, interactive…in a “Night at the Museum” kind of way.

What I liked: The main character is great. All kids (and adults) will relate to the personality traits and complicated relationships experienced by the main characters. I also loved the clues the kids had to figure out in order to solve the puzzles…totally made me wish I was in that library with them!

What I didn’t like: My biggest criticism is that a few of the characters fell a little flat, like they had no real distinctive personality. Parts of the book were a little slow, but not enough to make me want to stop reading. Overall, a fun book.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

This is the first book in the series. Kyle is a big fan of games and he manages to win a spot to be part of the opening celebration of the new town library that has been built by his favorite game maker, Luigi Lemoncello. He, along with 11 other students find out that they are part of a competition; they will be locked into the library and if they can find a way out before the deadline, there will be a big prize for the winner or winners. Kyle teams up with several others to solve a series of puzzles that will provide clues as they work their way around the library with its traditional stacks and more high tech areas. It is filled with book trivia as well and the books mentioned are listed at the back. It is in a similar vein as the Gollywhopper Games series.

Kyle Keeley isn't interested in winning the extra credit essay contest. That is until he gets grounded from all electronics for being a little overzealous during an interactive board game he was playing with his brothers. Once Kyle is punished, getting to stay overnight in the new library sounds way more exciting, especially considering it's state of the art and their town hadn’t had a library in twelve years. Unfortunately he didn't write the essay! So now he needs to find a way to turn the essay in before the deadline. Kyle tries, but isn’t sure if he's successful. When Kyle finds out he's one of the twelve kids chosen to sleep at the library, he's ecstatic. The bonus is that his best friend is going to be there too, and she's lots of fun. The night begins with a game, and of course there are winners and losers. There's an interesting mix of people in the library, and so much to explore. This new library is beyond cool! The video games, the holograms, the books! This library has it all! The most awesome part is that it was designed by Kyle's favorite board game maker, Mr. Lemoncello. When the twelve writing contestants find out that they have a chance to play in a virtual board game for twenty-four hours throughout the library, the game is on. Not everyone decides to stay, but wait until you find out what happens to those who play. Will Kyle and the others be able to put the clues together before the time runs out? Who can you trust in this game? Is it better to play a ruthless game or to help out those around you? You'll have to read this fabulous library adventure in order to find out!

When I read Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein I didn't know exactly what to expect, besides the fact that I’d be reading about one of my favorite places in the world, the library. I liked the gaming aspect of this book, and I think it will appeal to a lot of kids. I also think Kyle would be a lot of fun to be friends with because he's kind and helpful, but he's also really good at board games and puzzles. As a matter of fact, all of the contestants, except for a few, are people that I'd really like to hang out with. It was also cool that this book brought up other stories and books I'd like to read or ones that I've read, and coming across their titles made me smile. The story also included many details about libraries for those people that may not know how the nonfiction section works or some of the other parts of the library. One thing is certain, the library described in this book is out of this world, and I would love to visit one with all the fancy holograms and interactive aspects. Definitely a library of the future- books and technology in all their glory! I know this will be a book that kids in fourth grade and up will get into (and people of any age who love books), and I look forward to reading more stories by this author.

I really enjoyed how much the reader can play along with the puzzles in this book. To me, a mystery isn’t fun if you can’t play detective along with the main character. Author Chris Grabenstein does a nice job of making many of these games “playable” with Kyle. I also enjoyed how he integrated many popular children’s book titles into the games and into Mr. Lemoncello’s speech. Grabenstein made use of classic titles like Anne of Green Gables (you know I’d like that!) and newer books I love like When You Reach Me.

The one little thing I wish were different about the book is that I wish there were more at stake than starring in a commercial. As an author myself, I’ve read many times that you have to decide what “terrible thing” will happen to your character if he does not succeed in his goal. Otherwise, why do we care? For that reason, the beginning of the book felt a little slow to me. I didn’t know why I should care if Kyle won this game or not. When I found out that the only thing at stake was starring in a commercial, it seemed a little shallow. Perhaps, if there’d been a financial prize, and Kyle’s family needed the money to keep their house or something, then I might’ve felt a bit more invested.

Fortunately, the riddles the kids have to solve were fun enough to keep a book lover like me entertained. Also, the library that Lemoncello (or really Grabenstein) dreams up is very cool, and I’d love to visit a library like that someday.

If you (or a kid you know) loves to read and solve puzzles, I’d definitely recommend this book. There’s even a fun puzzle-within-the-puzzle for the reader to solve at the end of the story.

Kyle Keeley loves games, especially those created by Mr. Lemoncello. He’s less excited by books and the new library that is opening in town even though his town has been without a library for 12 years. In fact, he’s completely blown off the contest that allows 12 twelve-year-olds early access to the library – until he learns that Mr. Lemoncello has put up the funds for the new library.

When Kyle and a couple of friends make the final cut for the preview, he is thrilled. However, their overnight lock in takes an unexpected twist when they learn the next morning they are still locked in to the library. If they can figure out clues hidden all over the library, they will win this unexpected contest. But will they find the escape route the clues lead them to before the deadline?

I’d heard nothing but great things about this book, and the praise was right. The set up took a bit more time than I would have liked, but once the contest started, the book was hard to put down. We are given the clues as Kyle and the other kids are, so we can possibly solve the riddles along with them. Personally, I didn’t spend much time trying and just let the characters solve it. Have I mentioned how bad I am with puzzles like that? Even so, I enjoyed watching how everything unfolded. The characters are fun as well, and make the entire book so enjoyable.

If you’ve missed this book, don’t continue making my mistake. Pick up the book and enjoy the fun escape now.

This was a cute and quick read with some neat puzzles throughout. It is described as a blend of Charlie and the Chocolate factory and A Night at the Museum and that description fits the story perfectly. I enjoyed it but not enough to read more books in this series.

However, this was one my nine year old son set aside...he thought it took too long for the story to get going and thought it was "boring". He's a big fan of fantasy books (Harry Potter, Warriors, The Unwanteds); so maybe this just wasn't his cup of tea.

Overall this was a quick read with some neat puzzles throughout the book. It calls out a lot of great literary books for kids which is great and hopefully will encourage kids who read it to go and pick up some of these other great books. I personally agreed with my son and thought it was a bit boring and simple. It’s enjoyable but not great. I would recommend to middle grade readers who enjoy puzzles and mysteries. Young adult and older readers will probably be a bit bored.

Premise

Alexandriaville has been without a public library for twelve years. An eccentric billionaire builds an elaborate library for his hometown. Not only are there plenty of books, but also fancy video games and lots of board games. Technology is state-of-the-art. A dozen twelve-year-old winners of an essay contest receive the right to stay in the library overnight and enjoy books, fun, and games. The next morning, the doors remain locked. Will they be able to figure out the clues and escape, thus winning the grand prize?

Initial Outlook

The town name is an obvious nod to the Library of Alexandria - a nice touch. Somewhat reminiscent of
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the premise promises fun and adventue. I wanted to love this. I was all set to be drawn into a fascinating and compelling journey. Unfortunately, this story, while it does have interesting elements, falls short of its potential.

Unrealistic Actions

The "kid lingo" and actions do not ring true. It feels like an adult lacking proper understanding of how kids actually talk and behave. Undoubtedly meant to seem "with it," the effect is the opposite. Yo, bro. [Insert fist bump, chest bump, and peace sign.] One kid even says he will "Twitter it." "Tweet" is the correct term. I also find it hard to believe that a twelve-year-old would have several thousand Twitter followers or Facebook friends.

Endless Literary References

Bogged down with endless literary references and name-dropping of book titles (which is repeated, more than once), I shudder to think what this would be like if listening to an audio version. While I certainly applaud the notion of interspersing titles of other books, if it arises organically within the story, the employed technique is overwhelming and tedious. The sheer volume of mentioned titles would be ridiculous even if they did not keep getting repeated throughout.

One-dimensional Characters

This story suffers from too many characters. They are all one-dimensional. There is almost no character development. The puzzles are multitudinous. The book is too long, considering the content and the way it was handled. The rhebus puzzles are somewhat interesting, but not always clear. There is ambiguity as to possible interpretations. I mostly find a rhebus to be tedious, much as I did even when I was the age of the kids in the story. Other aspects require knowledge of fictional games and events, thus complicating matters for the reader who is interested in trying to solve puzzles before or with the characters.

Unfavorable E-reader Remark Despite Lots of Technology

There is an unnecessary, nasty remark about e-readers. We see in the beginning where all the kids' electronic devices are confiscated for the duration. They are in one of the most advanced places in the world (a 500 million dollar library with the best computers, animatronic geese, and holographic librarians and animals), but we have to suffer through some sort of implication about children who have electronic devices. Potentially, since they might not have devices of equal quality, this could be in an effort to level the playing field; however, this is not explicitly stated. At another point, several copies of a book are left out for the group, with one of the copies being on an e-reader. The narrative makes a point of saying that "nobody went for the e-reader." - I read this on an e-reader, thanks. Incidentally, it was a digital copy from my local library.

Dewey Decimal System

There is an undue and prolonged emphasis on the Dewey Decimal system. The implication is that these kids have only been in their school library. While it is certainly conceivable that they could know about this, it would not be in such precise detail.

Endless Knowledge of Trivia

They also know an absurd amount of trivia - a completely unbelievable amount. One of the kids asks what happened on February 20, 1915. Another immediately states that was the day of the Panama-Pacific International Exposition opening in San Francisco. She claims to know this because she is a big fan of World Fairs. In another example, they had to name four books for each author in a long list. A very limited amount of time was provided.

A Little Goofy Around the Edges

Whimsical and, to borrow a phrase from the book, "a little goofy around the edges," the puzzles are often too complicated or require too many steps and there is not enough intrigue or suspense. Greater escalation of conflict would increase the interest. It lacks sufficient substance. Hard to follow at times, it's a pushy promotion of reading without the heart that ought to be included in such a story.

Pushed into Corners

Too much depends on luck and prior knowledge. Many things are determined by chance. The kids are often urged by the head adult to to try special challenges that are ridiculously difficult. If they fail, they lose immediately and must leave. They also have to return their library cards if this happens. How does that work? They no longer get to have a library card? They get it back later? We are never told.

Assertions

"Knowledge not shared remains unknown."

This is not true. While I do like the idea of sharing knowledge, I dislike this assertion because I feel it negates the value of what an individual knows. - Perhaps the idea was knowledge that has been forgotten by everyone.

"A library doesn't need windows. We have books, which are windows into worlds we never dreamed possible."

My local library is quite nice and, while there are no holographic tigers or animatronic geese, we enjoy many windows and skylights. Books should get you excited about experiencing the world. It's not necessary to block out access to the outside world in order to do that. Where I live, the windows allow a nice view of the park, or of the parkling lot. You might be waiting on a ride or just enjoying the view on a nice day or seeing if it's raining. People watching. Many writers, and people in general, enjoy such things and get ideas this way - not to mention, you are not left in darkness should the power fail.

Random Bits of Interest

"If two witches were watching two watches, which witch would watch which watch?"

"Never bolt your door with a boiled carrot."

Sherlock to Watson: "You see, but you do not observe."

Sherlock to Watson: "It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data."

In Summary

I'd like to say the story was "funful and wondermous" - words from the book - and, in a way, it was; however, I must say I find this to be an example of a fascinating premise suffering from a less than stellar execution. I find the ending to be highly predictable and anticlimactic, though I would love to visit a place like Mr. Lemoncello's library. It would, no doubt, be splendiferous.

Upcoming

The author has a book, The Island of Dr. Libris, currently available for pre-order. It also has a fascinating premise. I plan to read it.

I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery, puzzle book. It is full of puzzles and clues to the mystery. It also makes many references to modern books and websites as well as classic literature and it's authors.
This book is about a group of children who win an essay contest and, as a reward, are granted early access to the town's new library. This library was designed by the rather eccentric, famed, game creator, Mr. Luigi Lemoncello. When they arrive at the library, however, they are told that they have a chance to participate in a new game, called 'Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library'. These children have 24 hours to find their way to a hidden exit in the library. The winner stars in Mr. Lemoncello's commercials.
I enjoyed how the books switched viewpoints from the different teams, and you were able to have more clues to work the puzzle yourself than the characters in the book had.
I really enjoyed the book references made in the story. 'The Mixed up Files of Mrs. Basil. E. Frankweiler', Pseudonymous Bosch, 'Sherlock Holmes', and 'The Rats of Nimh' were all mentioned. Having read any of these may have given you more hints. I found myself trying to figure out clues and rebuses before reading to see what the characters actually thought about them.
I am pleased that the characters who cheated, lied, or even those who were rough with the books and other contestants, were eliminated. In some books I have read things like those go unpunished, and it upsets me because it teaches that lying and cheating is O.K when it isn't.
I am incredibly glad I was able to read this before the publishing date, and I am looking forward to any books this author may write. Fans of literature everywhere would enjoy this fantastic book.
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I loved this book! I want to share it with the world!... Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library is like a combination of Willy Wanka, a puzzle book, and a library. It kind of make me think of the movie from the 90's called The Pagemaster, but instead of solving puzzles to get back to real life (out of an animated tale), these kids are figuring them out to get out of the library for a prize.

The book starts off telling the tale of Kyle, who is always competing with his brothers and when the chance arises to enter a school contest he originally thinks nothing of it. He then realizes that it is being held by his favorite game maker, the famous Mr. Lemoncello. Through the book there isn't much character building but Kyle realizes that the best way to play the game is with others versus being overly competitive - which is nice.

The puzzles were my favorite part, the book is full of them. There are even ones outside of the story. I found myself wanting a piece of paper nearby to complete the puzzles for myself versus reading the answers as the kids in the story figured them out. It think Middle Grade readers who enjoy word and picture puzzles will have a blast with this as well. I could even see this as a great book for the family to read and experience together.

I think older readers will enjoy this book as well as it sprinkles various nods to classic books and events throughout. I found myself laughing out loud, participating in the puzzles and trying to figure it all out for myself before the kids did. It was a lot of fun.

This review is written by a fourth grader in my classroom. Hope you find it helpful! "I would recommend Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library as an engaging book. Mr. Lemoncello's library is a high-tech library with hoverboards, a wonder dome, and it's full of computers and holograms. Twelve kids won a contest to spend the night in Mr. Lemoncello's library. In the morning, the kids were locked in and they had to escape from Mr. Lemoncello's library. The kids formed two different teams while trying to escape from the library, but some unethical decisions were made by one of the teams. The glowing tile on the floor gave a clue to help kids escape. At the end, Charles Chiltington was the lone wolf who remained in the game. His companions soon discovered that he was only trying to gather information to get the other kids out of the contest. I like that the author gives you the illusion that you are in the same adventure that the kids are experiencing in the book. I recommend this book to teachers who are looking for a good story to read out loud to their class."

The book started out fine, thinking it would get better, but never did. It was a disappointment. It got really confusing and was all over the place. The characters figured out weird clues. There were many random things that occurred. Honestly, I was anxious to finish the story. Not because of eagerness, but because of lack of interest.

I love mysteries. But this was nothing like the mystery I was hoping for. It was over the top. The characters would be doing one thing, then all of a sudden, another. There were way too many clues. I like to solve the mysteries myself, but this was way too complicated.

There was something about a white tiger in the story that confused me. It was a part where a white tiger appeared in front of the kids there and scared them out of the room to hide. And then, that was it. Nothing else about the white tiger. Weird.

At the end of the story, the author wrote a little note saying that there was a clue in the story which a puzzle still unsolved. That puzzle was for the reader to solve. And NO WAY was I going back to find that little, tiny clue.

There was something about a white tiger in the story that confused me. It was a part where a white tiger appeared in front of the kids that were staying the night at the library and scared them out of the room to hide. And then, that was it. Nothing else mentioned about the white tiger again. Weird. Of course, maybe that was the extra puzzle for the reader to solve, but still, I really have no idea.

I'm really surprised that it was rated so high. I actually wasn't sure whether to rate this book 2 or 3 stars, but I had to choose...

If you are someone that is a "genius", and likes to crack super complicated codes, I would recommend this book for you. If you aren't, skip the book. I would recommend this book for 8th, 9th grade and up, without being a "genius".

I liked this book. A book about books and libraries, what's not to like? I loved all the book title name dropping, the idea of this wonderful library, all of the things about this book -- except: the characters were so flat and predictable (one from every group-type in junior high -- although even the bully was a geek, really?) and the story went on and on and on...those characters were smart enough to have solved the riddle should have solved it, long before they did. I liked this book. I would have liked it better if it had been edited and boiled down to a lot less chapters. But, a book about books and libraries -- what's not to like?

This book is a FUN read. I absolutely LOVE it. Before i had read it i was kinda over reading,but then this book came out and i absolutely had to read it. It sounded FUN and EXCITING. Cant wait to read the others in the series.

I recommend this book to children from 9+ because this book is a all round WINNER. Couldnt put it down.Kyle Keely is a absolute class clown.He is also smart and GOOD at finding and figuring out clues.I think that he is the main reason why his team wins things. It also shows that,when your put under preasure you can basically do anything.

This book in a few words , awesome,fun,mysterious.Read it, you will LOVE it.

This is a cute book with nice ideas, but flat, one-dimensional, and the writer doesn't seem to share any of the passions which he says that the characters have.

This is basically Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for stereotypes of people who read and play board games.

As an avid board gamer since I was well under 12 years old, I expect a book which is supposed to be about a board game designer to have realistic board games beyond roll and move and trivia board games. The example games referenced are stupid and have nothing to do with modern board gaming.

The 1960s trivia is bizarre and seems extremely out of place unless it's to create a bridge between the young readers and their grandparents.

The puzzles are of the Dan Brown level of either extremely obvious or obtuse enough as to be nonsensical until made clear.

The book references are straight from the recommended reading for elementary and middle school. They show no creativity and are unlikely to drive children to seek out books which are interesting or will have anything appropriate to teach them.

This might be fun escapism for a young reader, but it is empty and pandering. I'd recommend giving this a miss.

I read this to my two sons, ages 7 and 12, because it was recommended by my sister, who is a 2nd grade teacher. We really wanted to like it! She said it was similar or inspired by Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The main reason we found this to be false is that the writing is nowhere near as good. The dialogues are not natural, but rather awkward and guessed at, like kids wouldn't really say that. We're a home school family and read a LOT of books, both out loud as well as the kids to themselves. The last 1/3 of the book improves a bit. But mostly we were glad when it was over. Obviously a lot of folks love this book, based on many reviews, but I thought it might be helpful to voice the other opinion. I'm sorry we own it, because I actually purchased it based on her enthusiasm...wish now we'd checked it out from the library (lol).

My daughters had been assigned this book in their book club and they loved it. When I was considering a book to send to two different young men for a gift, I immediately remembered how fun this book was for my daughters. The one young man loves the book so much he won't let his mother borrow it. I don't know what the other child thinks, but I am sure he is enjoying it also. It is a very fun read.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. As a school librarian, I read many, many children's books for my work and I was really impressed by this one. Almost on every page there are references to other great kids books, the story is gripping, and I believe that once you start reading, you will be hooked on the game as well, even if you don't get any parting gifts (Well, that's not entirely true--the gift is a really great kids book!). I definitely want this book for my library.

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library is a great book. I wish I could go to that library! It is in an old bank building with many vaults. I enjoyed how clues would randomly show up. For example, I liked when one of the characters went into a room and she heard, "Congratulations..you are our third visitor... and we all know that the third time is a charm."

I enjoyed the holograms and animatronics representing history, especially when George Washington was debating with George Bush. The book references within this book were great, too! The characters explored through the Dewey Decimal system with fun surprises along the way.

My favorite section was the Young Adult section which had sofas shaped like Scrabble piece holders.

The best part might have been figuring out the FINAL puzzle that lies in the book for the reader to solve. I figured it out! You should, too.
~10 year old reader

this book has a great plot and in even better story behind it. It is just mysterious and amazing and so many other things at the same time. I have read many books by Chris Grabenstein and this one is my favorite book in my favorite series and if you haven't read the whole series yet read on! I was pretty disappointed when thee book ended that their wasn't any more book to read because i had fallen so deep in the plot that i didn't want to stop reading and i was relieved to hear that their is a sequel that i think is just as good and just as iteresting so as i said earlier; READ ON®

This is a really great book. I seriously recommend it to any kid 8-12ish who loves to read. One of my favorite novels growing up was The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin, and this has that same mystery/puzzle kind of storyline but ALSO it is all about books. So many books! I'm not sure that kids these days appreciate physical libraries the way we used to, but maybe this will just help to bring back some of that magic. My only big complaint is that some of the characters (the "villain" kid in particular) are really one-dimensional. This was enough to knock a star off for me, because I think that even for middle grade, kids can get that there aren't just good guys and bad guys.

I purchased this for my 9 and 10 year olds to read. I loved the description on the back of the book so much that I decided to read it myself first. I absolutely loved this book. I just read through most of the 1 and 2 star reviews and have to say, I disagree with every single one of them. I read through this book in one sitting. I just described the premise to my 15 year old and she said she's going to read it now, just for fun.

Mr.Lemoncello's library was simply one of the most AMAZING books that I have read, and I just could not put it down. The kids that were chosen had to work together to find the way out of Mr.Lemoncello's mysterious library with only using what they find inside the library to get out. The book has a very good plot and it contains lots of suspense, escpecially in the final moments of the game when they are hurrying to get out. Lots of suspense and players eliminated makes this a book worthy of a Five-Star rating. Mr.Grabstein has made a wonderful book for people of all ages to enjoy.

As a lover of books and libraries, I really wanted to like this book. Aimed at middle school readers (the children in the story are all 12 year old seventh graders) but written at a fourth grade level, it's accessible even to reluctant readers of that age group. However, much of the (many, many) literary and library references would go over the heads of an average middle schooler because they are authors and titles not usually encountered until high school or college. It can be assumed that the references are meant to intrigue and inspire the reader to seek out these titles for future reading along with the main character (a stereotypical reluctant reader who creates his own future reading list throughout the adventure). But it's a big stretch from this book to some of the names dropped in the story, and any that might be accessible are overwhelmed by the sheer number of titles and author mentioned.

Without knowing anything about the author, I was left with the impression of an adult bibliophile who really wanted to share that passion with the next generation. But, instead of starting with the frame of reference of the target audience and building naturally, tried to shortcut the expansion of knowledge with clumsy literary devices. The book is generally well reviewed, but I wonder if many of the positive reviews are by other adult bibliophiles who also want children to enjoy the book rather than by children who really did enjoy it.

The author is obviously working from a vast knowledge of literature (evidenced by references and allusions peppered throughout), but it's unfortunate that his own plot and characters seemed to be nothing more than a hodge-podge of lifted classics rather than something new and original. If Willy Wonka hosted a Night at the Museum and invited Percy Jackson, Hermione, etc. you'd be pretty close to what this book offers. The characters were disappointingly one-dimensional stereotypes, which was made even more awkward when split into teams: kind and generous team players who enjoy books versus those who manifest character flaws.

The gaming plot device in a library setting is promising, but the book needed more complex characters to sell it as a believable journey that kids could identify with. If the author's goal was to inspire reluctant readers, or even average middle schoolers, to explore their local library and the books it contains, I'm doubtful that these characters are up to the task of create a lasting impression that would inspire such a transformation.

A fun story for children of all ages (even if it is geared towards younger kids). The story is most resembles ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ where children win a contest to stay at a new library overnight which then becomes a contest to find an alternate way out. The story is full of book references and teaches the importance of libraries to the community. A nice story if you’re looking for something light.

Escape from Lemoncello's Library is full of fantastic surprises at every turn. It was definitely the best book I have read for months, and I could not put it down until I finished it. I could see it as if it were a play because of all the colorful detailed descriptions. I was sad after I finished it when my Dad said there was no such library YET... Maybe one day there will be a library with holographic librarians that help you find books and hovercraft-like elevators that allow you to reach books 50 feet in the air. If you enjoy playing board games and solving puzzles, you will love this futuristic book too. By Jackson, 10 year old

Kyle is just your average kid. He loves video games, gets OK grades... Oh, and he loves Mr. Lemoncello's games. Mr. Lemoncello is only the best gamemaker in the world. So when he finds out that Mr. Lemoncello is opening a library in the town Kyle lives in, (and that whichever kids write the best essay about libraries gets to spend the night in it) he knows that he'll have to try harder than your average kid to get in.

But, once you've spent the night in the library, the fun part begins. Not that a library with holograms and hoverboards isn't fun, but when you are locked in the library and have to compete against each other to escape, well, that's what I call Fantastically Fun.

Such a lovely little trinket. My 4th grade son's class is doing an optional book club with this title and he was reluctant to join the group. Because of the reviews here I got a copy and devoured it myself and I'm sure that he will delight in it as well. His 8th grade brother sneak-read it when I put it down and loved it, too. Lovely literary references abound and clues throughout were challenging and fun. I still haven't figured out what the unsolved mystery is - I think we'll work on that one together. Very, very enjoyable!

Book #5 Read in 2014
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein (YA)

This book is sort of a modernized Willy Wonka, set in a library. Twelve 12 year olds are chosen as winners of an essay contest. Their prize is a sleepover in the brand new library of Mr. Lemoncello before it is open to the public. This is no ordinary library, or sleepover for that matter. There are clues, prizes and twists and turns.

The characters are likeable (except for those who are not supposed to be liked). I enjoyed the book references throughout. This was a fun read. It contained humor, a good mystery and an interesting plot. I recommend it.

[...]

It is like a modern mix of The Westing Game and From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. The writing style reminded me of children's literature from the past such as the Bobbsey Twins, Happy Hollisters, Encyclopedia Brown, etc. Good, clean fun. Great for elementary students, but also fun for adults with all the references to literature throughout the story - a book you could use for a family book club.

Kyle Keeley loves games. Sure, he loves electronic games like the PSP, but he also loves board games. His favorite ones are all created by Luigi Lemoncello. Come to find out, Mr. Lemoncello had a hand in creating the new library, and he is allowing 12 twelve year olds the opportunity to get in a day early and stay the night. All the sudden, Kyle wants in that library. It doesn't matter to him that he doesn't really like reading. While it seemed like a hard thing to get in, once he's in there it becomes even harder to get out. Will he be able to solve the puzzles and find his way out?

I am not the target audience for this book as I am definitely not a child. It was absolutely written as juvenile fiction. Still, I loved it! I geeked out on all of the book and library references (since I work in the children's department of a library.) Even though, unlike Kyle I actually love reading, I related to his love of puzzles and games. It was neat hearing about all of Mr. Lemoncello's different board games.

Like everything mentions, this book was similar to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. It is even brought up throughout the book. Kids who read that and want another similar book will love this one. It could also be a great way to introduce the classic to kids who read this one first and want more. Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library will appeal to so many kids: Kids who love libraries or books, kids who love puzzles, kids who love board games, and probably even kids who love mysteries. Kids who don't like reading might change their minds when they read this one. On top of all that, there was actually a moral to the story.

How to get out? There is no exit! If you are already interested, read Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library. If it still doesn’t capture your attention read on, because if you like friendship, adventure, and a little bit of mystery, you will love this book. I think while it’s fun, the book also encourages kids to explore their own public library.

The setting is in a town called Alexandriaville, where they have not had a public library in 12 years. Mr. Lemoncello, a famous game maker, has donated all the money to build it, and all twelve year-olds are allowed to write an essay in order to win a spot in the library lock-in (an all night party in the library). The story is in present day. I really like that the author has made it in a small town, because if he placed the story in New York City, it wouldn’t make sense because New York has one huge library!

Once the twelve year olds get in the library, they spend time playing games and eating food. When they wake up in the morning, they think its over until a hologram of Mr. Lemoncello tells them that they have to figure out how to get out of the library without using the doors or fire exits. Whoever wins, becomes as famous as him. The book then describes how they figure everything out.

I have two favorite characters in the book. The first character is a girl named Sierra. She has straight dark brown hair, brown eyes and is rather small compared to the other teenagers. She is kind of quiet because her parents are divorced. She is very smart because she spends a lot of the time reading. She was important in the book because without her, Kyle and his friends wouldn’t have figured out a lot of the problems!

My second favorite character is Kyle. Kyle has messy brown hair, dark blue eyes, and a upturned nose. He is super fun loving, but he is also very compassionate. He is important in the book because without his leadership, his team would have fallen apart!

The author is Chris Grabenstein. (pronounced like Frankenstein). He was born in Buffalo NY. He loved writing even in eighth grade! After college, he moved to New York with six suitcases, a typewriter, and very little money. One quote from him is: “A library is, and always will be, a place where we can come together and share what we know.”

Now, if you liked this book review, you should probably like the book. I read this book because it was for our library’s tween book club. If you don’t have a book club in your area, talk to your local librarians or even start one yourself! It’s a great way to get to know the kids in your community. And as Kyle learns, friends can be a lot more fun than games and video games.

I've been reading this with my son (4th grade) and we are disappointed. It really drags on and on. I'm genuinely surprised by all the great reviews! It really just drags out the library escape game and seems like an overly contrived lesson. It's just hard to wade through and you find yourself wishing it would just finally end. It's as if the author was just writing more to find ways of inserting the names of more books, authors and historical figures into the story. Not a great story.

The first line I read in here made me sure I'm gonna love it!! And I totally agree with everyone's reviews !!! This book was not good......... it was very good !!! I especially had fun solving the puzzles and codes with Kyle and his friends and there were such great quotes in this book!! It was as if I was sucked into the book and I couldn't leave until I escaped ! This was breathtaking and I couldn't put it down!!!! I hope there is a second part!!!!!!! Thanks for writing such a marvellous book Chris grabenstein!!!!!

From Mahika 10 years :):)

I LOVED this book!! It is like a retelling of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory only with books and a library instead of candy and a candy factory! It has it all. Love of family. Good friends. Cooperation. Selfish rat finks. Anger. Change of heart. And books. Lots and lots of books mentioned by title and author! It was so much fun, I cannot wait to read the sequel!

This book is for kids that realy like board games,video games,etc.. Its also a great book for kids who like librays,mysteries and solving clues and puzzles.Its a great read aa loud to read to a class or read individually. Any way you read it or hear about it its a great book to read any way or time or place. ;) Its a great book to read and just a side note i would realy pay the fee becuse its a great book fabulous amazing bokk speand your money and buy the book it will realy pay. He he he he. ;)

"It's amazing!", "It's awesome!" That's what everyone I asked said. So I thought OK let's try it. It can't be that bad. I couldn't have been more wrong. The cover art was cute, but looks couldn't have been more deceiving.
Finding clues to escape a crazy library is a pretty cool concept. My question is why weren't there more clues? The back of the book hints at tons of them and puzzles too. Where were they? The ones that were actually used were really confusing. They could have ment anything. The kids were just going on random guesses and doing random things. Sometimes it just seemed like a wild goose chase.
Another thing that bothered me was the dialogue. It felt like it was just thrown together. Totally haphazard. There was no flow. It also didn't sound like kids were talking. I'm a teenager, so I can tell you. We are NEVER that uptight with our speech. It was just unrealistic. To give him credit, he did try to use slang, but it doesn't work. It used in all the wrong places. Once Charles even says he'll "twitter" something. Even my parents know the proper word is "tweet". The author also references things most teens and tweens have never heard of. I had to ask my mom what Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In was, and even she wasn't too sure. No offense, but how old is this guy?
Some of the characters were actually OK, but many of them were very stereotypical. Charles is the bully, Haley is the pretty, popular girl, Sierra is the bookworm. They were completely undeveloped. Then there's Miguel. I really didn't know what to make of him. One minute he's all cool saying "yo" and "bro", and the next minute he's a library nerd. I just couldn't figure him out. As for Lemoncello, he was just the clown version of Willy Wonka. He wasn't anything original like I'd hoped.
All that said, I did really like the concept of the book. It was very clever. The author described the library very well too. That's what bumped it from one star to two. Still, I would pass on this book and hope the author does better next time.

Cute YA book, much like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Kyle and his friends win an opportunity to enter odd Mr. Lemonncello's fantastical new library, and using clues uncovered inside, piece together the way out. There are many YA books mentioned or used as clues in the book. I think teen readers might actually use that as a TBR list! I liked the story, but I don't believe I will read any of the others by this author.

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library is an amazing middle-grade read. Its' riddles and unique plot qualities are ones that all ages can enjoy. The characters are quirky and fun. Mr. Lemoncello is comparable to no other character I have ever read, but he was my favorite. The scenes are beautifully described, and readers will love Grabenstein's detailed words about the futuristic library where much of the story is set. Overall 5/5 stars; I will definitely be picking up more books by Grabenstein.

Boy, did I ever love this book. So much fun! So many literary references! A bit Willy Wonka, but with books instead of candy. Fabulous! Immediately gave to one of my 10 year old sons to read, and he loved it, too. Then bought a copy since we had to return ours to the library, and I wanted my husband and other 10 year old son to read it. Lovely!

I got this book when I was twelve and I really liked it! It has perfect descriptions and a wonderful plot line. I have read it three times since then and it's so full of games and twists that it is hard to remember it all once you've finished! -Miriam Bonney

BEST BOOK EVER!!!!!!!! I totally recamrnd this book to you. Better yet read it with your class if you are a teacher. If you like it read the second book. I have not read it yet but that is the book i am going to read once I finish the book I am in the midfle of.

Delightful read!! Young or young at heart, you will love this book. Pair with the sequel, Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics! Young readers will come away with a list of books they can't wait to immerse themselves into after these really fun books. Chris Grabenstein is a gifted writer.

Twelve-year-old Kyle Keeley would much rather play video games and solve puzzles than pick up a book. But when he hears the announcement that his hero, the famous gamemaker Luigi Lemoncello, has designed the new public library in his small Ohio town, Kyle can't wait to get inside. Lucky for Kyle, he lands an early, all-access pass to the library along with 11 of his classmates. The event promises to be filled with food, games and prizes.

During the opening-night lock-in, librarian Yanina Zinchenko gives the kids an exclusive tour of the library's many exciting features. Holograms, levitating stepladders, a video game room, interactive exhibits and hi-tech book sorting machines make it unlike anything they could've imagined. The kids have an unforgettable slumber party. But when morning comes and the doors are still locked, Kyle and the others find themselves players in Lemoncello's latest game: find a way out of the library.

The kids must use their wits to navigate the labyrinthine library and uncover the secret exit route before time runs out. The prize: fame and fortune as the spokesperson for Lemoncello's gaming empire. The snooty Charles Chiltington is confident that he can win, but Kyle quickly realizes that teaming up with his friends is his only shot at victory. Through the competition's elaborate twists and turns, Kyle learns about his town's history and even adds a few books to his reading list.

Chris Grabenstein pulls out all the stops in this cross between CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY and THE NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM. The engaging blend of mystery, adventure and humor makes for a speedy read. Grabenstein creates an (inter)active reading experience that is sure to win over both bookworms and game-lovers. No matter their age, readers will enjoy playing along with the characters as they face brainteasers, picture puzzles and a who's who game of classic authors and titles. Without giving anything away...Grabenstein has even planted a secret bonus puzzle for clever readers to solve.

Reviewed by Emma Kantor

I personally LOVED this book. It had all my favorite things in it,action an adventure,Suspense,and of course a fun plot. The book took place in a awesome futuristic library (duh. ITS CALLED MR.LEMONCELLO'S LIBRARY!!!!!!!) ***SPOILERS BELOW***

Although I thought it was bit o a short read, it was page turner

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library is a fun, lighthearted read that will be perfect for any young book lover. I'm a big fan of libraries and children's literature, so I was very excited to see what the author would be able to do with this very Willy Wonka - like concept. This is a very fast paced read, filled with puzzles to figure out. The mystery itself is very well plotted and will have readers holding on to the very end to see who will win the prize. Kids will love all the little shout outs to their favorite authors and books, and I loved all the valuable Dewey information that the author so seamlessly integrated into the story.

I think the problems I had with this book rose primarily from my sky high expectations. I wanted more. It had its witty moments, but the humor stayed on more of a whimsical level throughout the story. I really wish the author could have incorporated more character development. All of the characters were rather two dimensional and clichéd. I would have had much more fun if the villain would have been just a wee bit sneakier and the good guy just a bit more real. Mr. Lemoncello himself was under-utilized. I wanted to hear more from him! I also found it odd that one of the games played by the students in the library centered on adult authors instead of children's book authors. It stood out since all the other games and puzzles concerned children's books. These however are the petty concerns of an adult reader.

This is an excellent choice for young readers grades four through seven, especially those who already enjoy books and libraries. I found it funny that the main character in this novel is not a reader, and spends the whole book compiling his reading list after coming to the realization that there was a lot he had to catch up on. This of course is a good message that might snare even the most reluctant of readers. Mr. Lemoncello's library is delightful, and if he ever needs help I would be glad to work for him! Young readers will most likely feel the same.

t."The escape from Mr. lemoncellos library" has mysterious tricks and i couldn't stop reading it. The author Chris Grabenstein is very clever putting a game like that into a book, as Kyle and his friends search for clues to escape. There are twist to getting out only some can find. As I read this book i can imagine how fun it would be to try and get out. This book kept me waiting and waiting to see what happened next. Overall i say this is a very great book.

A fun-filled book full of adventure and suspense, Mr. Lemoncello's Library is a book I would recomend to practically anyone. Who will win? How will they win? This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading it!

I had high hopes for this book since I love Willy Wonka, books that take place in libraries and puzzles that have to be solved. Unfortunately, I almost didn't finish the book. The author spent the first 100 pages setting up the story, but he did it with extremely poor writing. I was bored. I didn't understand the plot. I had no feel for the characters. Then, when the kids get to the library, things start to get interesting. The plot is better and I relate more to the characters. I know a lot of students who are not going to wait it out for 100 pages to get to the good stuff.
The plot of this book is basically, What if Willy Wonka owned a library instead of a candy factory. Twelve kids are invited to the new library, get locked inside, and have to use the library's resources to find the alternate exit. A ton of book references are thrown around, but unless a kid is a super-reader, they will most likely not understand most of them. I like how the author dealt with the nasty children--slightly nicer than Wonka did. I enjoyed some of the puzzles. I just wish the publisher expected better writing because I could have truly enjoyed this book.
Would I recommend this book? Maybe. For grades 4-8 and for those who are serious readers.

They are preparing for the first place in the park salt lake city and stepmother to buy candy crush on Tuesday night at the same school asked what gets the ends of semesters the typesyum the same school as sharpener and handsome boy in the park is true that the same school as a great deal with your sis for the first place in the park salt youtube video for the first place in a great day for the first place in the park salt lake city and stepmother to the same school as a great day of semesters and handsome and handsome and stepmother the same time doesn't mean you know I am a Merry Christmas and handsome boy on Tuesday

What a fun new book by this author. I have read many of his "carnival ride" mysteries, but this was my first of his outside that series. Probably meant for YA, I am an adult and liked it very much. Puzzles and mystery.

I am a children's librarian and am reading this title as part of the new school years Battle of the Books competition that we support at our school. Although I do not consider myself a puzzle solver or master of board games, I did enjoy this book. There are great characters and a fantasy library that we would all love to visit-as well as work at! A good read and lots of action.

BEST BOOK EVER!!!!!!!! I totally recamrnd this book to you. Better yet read it with your class if you are a teacher. If you like it read the second book. I have not read it yet but that is the book i am going to read once I finish the book I am in the midfle of.

Delightful read!! Young or young at heart, you will love this book. Pair with the sequel, Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics! Young readers will come away with a list of books they can't wait to immerse themselves into after these really fun books. Chris Grabenstein is a gifted writer.

i loved how many hand crafted joyful and amazing the libary details the book mister lemoncello himself the mystery the fun when you walk into it the love of books i love this book(comment if you have read this book 4 times too!)loved it!

Twelve-year-old Kyle Keeley would much rather play video games and solve puzzles than pick up a book. But when he hears the announcement that his hero, the famous gamemaker Luigi Lemoncello, has designed the new public library in his small Ohio town, Kyle can't wait to get inside. Lucky for Kyle, he lands an early, all-access pass to the library along with 11 of his classmates. The event promises to be filled with food, games and prizes.

During the opening-night lock-in, librarian Yanina Zinchenko gives the kids an exclusive tour of the library's many exciting features. Holograms, levitating stepladders, a video game room, interactive exhibits and hi-tech book sorting machines make it unlike anything they could've imagined. The kids have an unforgettable slumber party. But when morning comes and the doors are still locked, Kyle and the others find themselves players in Lemoncello's latest game: find a way out of the library.

The kids must use their wits to navigate the labyrinthine library and uncover the secret exit route before time runs out. The prize: fame and fortune as the spokesperson for Lemoncello's gaming empire. The snooty Charles Chiltington is confident that he can win, but Kyle quickly realizes that teaming up with his friends is his only shot at victory. Through the competition's elaborate twists and turns, Kyle learns about his town's history and even adds a few books to his reading list.

Chris Grabenstein pulls out all the stops in this cross between CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY and THE NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM. The engaging blend of mystery, adventure and humor makes for a speedy read. Grabenstein creates an (inter)active reading experience that is sure to win over both bookworms and game-lovers. No matter their age, readers will enjoy playing along with the characters as they face brainteasers, picture puzzles and a who's who game of classic authors and titles. Without giving anything away...Grabenstein has even planted a secret bonus puzzle for clever readers to solve.

Reviewed by Emma Kantor

I personally LOVED this book. It had all my favorite things in it,action an adventure,Suspense,and of course a fun plot. The book took place in a awesome futuristic library (duh. ITS CALLED MR.LEMONCELLO'S LIBRARY!!!!!!!) ***SPOILERS BELOW***

Although I thought it was bit o a short read, it was page turner

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library is a fun, lighthearted read that will be perfect for any young book lover. I'm a big fan of libraries and children's literature, so I was very excited to see what the author would be able to do with this very Willy Wonka - like concept. This is a very fast paced read, filled with puzzles to figure out. The mystery itself is very well plotted and will have readers holding on to the very end to see who will win the prize. Kids will love all the little shout outs to their favorite authors and books, and I loved all the valuable Dewey information that the author so seamlessly integrated into the story.

I think the problems I had with this book rose primarily from my sky high expectations. I wanted more. It had its witty moments, but the humor stayed on more of a whimsical level throughout the story. I really wish the author could have incorporated more character development. All of the characters were rather two dimensional and clichéd. I would have had much more fun if the villain would have been just a wee bit sneakier and the good guy just a bit more real. Mr. Lemoncello himself was under-utilized. I wanted to hear more from him! I also found it odd that one of the games played by the students in the library centered on adult authors instead of children's book authors. It stood out since all the other games and puzzles concerned children's books. These however are the petty concerns of an adult reader.

This is an excellent choice for young readers grades four through seven, especially those who already enjoy books and libraries. I found it funny that the main character in this novel is not a reader, and spends the whole book compiling his reading list after coming to the realization that there was a lot he had to catch up on. This of course is a good message that might snare even the most reluctant of readers. Mr. Lemoncello's library is delightful, and if he ever needs help I would be glad to work for him! Young readers will most likely feel the same.

t."The escape from Mr. lemoncellos library" has mysterious tricks and i couldn't stop reading it. The author Chris Grabenstein is very clever putting a game like that into a book, as Kyle and his friends search for clues to escape. There are twist to getting out only some can find. As I read this book i can imagine how fun it would be to try and get out. This book kept me waiting and waiting to see what happened next. Overall i say this is a very great book.

A fun-filled book full of adventure and suspense, Mr. Lemoncello's Library is a book I would recomend to practically anyone. Who will win? How will they win? This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading it!

I had high hopes for this book since I love Willy Wonka, books that take place in libraries and puzzles that have to be solved. Unfortunately, I almost didn't finish the book. The author spent the first 100 pages setting up the story, but he did it with extremely poor writing. I was bored. I didn't understand the plot. I had no feel for the characters. Then, when the kids get to the library, things start to get interesting. The plot is better and I relate more to the characters. I know a lot of students who are not going to wait it out for 100 pages to get to the good stuff.
The plot of this book is basically, What if Willy Wonka owned a library instead of a candy factory. Twelve kids are invited to the new library, get locked inside, and have to use the library's resources to find the alternate exit. A ton of book references are thrown around, but unless a kid is a super-reader, they will most likely not understand most of them. I like how the author dealt with the nasty children--slightly nicer than Wonka did. I enjoyed some of the puzzles. I just wish the publisher expected better writing because I could have truly enjoyed this book.
Would I recommend this book? Maybe. For grades 4-8 and for those who are serious readers.

They are preparing for the first place in the park salt lake city and stepmother to buy candy crush on Tuesday night at the same school asked what gets the ends of semesters the typesyum the same school as sharpener and handsome boy in the park is true that the same school as a great deal with your sis for the first place in the park salt youtube video for the first place in a great day for the first place in the park salt lake city and stepmother to the same school as a great day of semesters and handsome and handsome and stepmother the same time doesn't mean you know I am a Merry Christmas and handsome boy on Tuesday

What a fun new book by this author. I have read many of his "carnival ride" mysteries, but this was my first of his outside that series. Probably meant for YA, I am an adult and liked it very much. Puzzles and mystery.

I am a children's librarian and am reading this title as part of the new school years Battle of the Books competition that we support at our school. Although I do not consider myself a puzzle solver or master of board games, I did enjoy this book. There are great characters and a fantasy library that we would all love to visit-as well as work at! A good read and lots of action.

I recommend this book to anyone who likes puzzle/mystery bows and is looking for a good read. I also recommend this to anyone who likes The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, The Secret Series by Pseudonymous Bosch, or The Whole Nother Story Series by Dr. Cuthbert Soup.

My 9yr old got this for his birthday and read it 3-5 times within a week - it's his new favourite. He loves number and word puzzles but normally prefers non-fiction, so it was great to get him reading fiction by tapping into his other interests. Highly recommend this book for kids who get scared easily by spooky stuff but enjoy a good mystery from a puzzle-solving perspective.

By Ch. 8, I had to stop. The protagonist only gets into the library contest BECAUSE HE CHEATS. Nice message. Specifically, he writes a second essay and turns it in late (by finding the billionaire's personal email online -- yeah, right). After that, I just don't care about him, can't root for him. I'm sure the puzzles are great, but the main character isn't. He's the opposite of Charlie Bucket.

This was a very good book. The plot was zany weird, and unpredictable. Though near the end, I thought the story lost a bit of its touch, because it ends up to be the same bad guy vs. Lots of good guys. In some parts it was a bit confusing, but it was fun trying to figure out the puzzles. It didn't have a lot of action and at the end, the kid we're basically doing the same things to find these clues, but they had different details. At the end the clue to the way out of the library was disappointing. There really wasn't a way to figure it out yourself. It had a lot to do with the fictional town, so even if you knew a lot about history, you couldn't figure it out. There were one or two puzzles that were optional to solve, an those were fun. Overall I was pretty satisfied with this book.

I loved this book. The characters seemed so real and full of knowledge, adventure, and a hope to learn more. I really enjoyed reading this book and I hope this author writes more like it. I would suggest this book to people of all ages and people who are in need of a laugh. Kyle was a good, modest, kind-hearted character. If he was real, I would want him to be my friend.

Who makes the best board games? According to Kyle, it is Mr. Lemoncello! It all started with Kyle breaking a window. If you want to learn more, step into 'Escape from Mr.Lemoncello's Library!" I recommend this book for ten to twelve year olds (maybe adults will like it too!)
-5th Grader

My first student who read this book can't put it down! He managed to make it through the book in only 2 short days! He usually loves Diary of a Wimpy Kid and I've been trying to get him into other books and this book did the trick!

read this it is a definite have to read!i dont know how she does it but she does it. it has a lot of action and its one of my personal favorites and trust me i have read A LOT of books .im telling ya if you dont read this u are missing out on a great book!

I am a usually pretty picky reader, but every moment of the book was exciting. I felt like I was trying to escape the library. I was trying to solve all the puzzles, and it was very.fast-paced.

The story starts out on a game, with the main character, Kyle Keeley racing his brothers. People can relate, if they have sibilings and like to be competitive with them.

Some kids could be the bullies"sidekick" and you can see that you don't always have to listen to them. In this book, it was a boy named Andrew Peckleman.

I bought this book for my grandson and of course read it myself first. I'm a retired reading teacher. His birthday is in June and I really think he'll ,like it. It is filled with mysteries and puzzles to solve along with the characters..I have always loved libraries and this is one of the most modern and up to date.

I have not yet finished but it is a great book to sit down and relax and read it. I always want to read the next chapter after the previous one is done. If you love action packed books this is for you. If you are about 8 years old this is good book to read. This is the best read aloud ever published!

This is a great book for elementary or middle school kids depending on the child's reading level. I have had nose in a book since 1st grade, and I just read this as an adult. Great book. Normally I don't buy books, I have my library, but this book I will buy just so I can make sure to share it with others.

This book was so much fun! My 9 year-old son read the book for a book report and when I saw how it held his interest, I decided to read it myself. We both loved solving the puzzles and following the clues. I thought the characters were well developed and felt like I was in the library with them for most of the book. My 11 year-old daughter is reading the book now and seems to be loving it, too!

This was a great book for young and old alike, for anyone who is interested in reading about action and adventure. It was really cool to see so many titles of books I have read such as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and Night at the Museum. This is one of the best books I have ever read!

It's really active and exciting to figure out what happens in the book.
It has many adventures and events that you just want to cross your fingers.
I think it should have 100 stars!

-Elizabeth

Although the story was slow to unfold it quickly picked up and developed into a 5 star read. I enjoyed the references to classic books and movies and found the puzzles pretty challenging to solve. Now I will need to reread to find the last unsolved piece! Fifth grades will love this book.

Book is fantastic! Creative writing story moves quickly and inspires the imagination. While the main character is a boy his best friend is a girl and a strong positive character. Great for either boy or girl with a positive message. Zero stars to the 1 week loan and no renewal options.