Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library

Twelve-year-old Kyle Keeley enters an essay contest to be among the first visitors to his town's new library. The library has been designed and funded by Kyle's hero, the eccentric game manufacturer Luigi Lemoncello. What begins as an overnight library visit transforms into an elaborate game where participants must solve puzzles and decode clues. The contestants work with and against each other as they navigate through the library's innovative technology and extensive book collection. The story incorporates elements of classic children's literature, game design, and library science into its plot structure. The fast-paced narrative combines traditional library research with modern gaming concepts. This middle-grade novel explores themes of teamwork, problem-solving, and the enduring value of books in a digital age. The story presents libraries as dynamic spaces where traditional learning meets contemporary innovation.

Readers describe this as a modern tribute to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with puzzles and library references woven throughout. Many compare it to The Westing Game and Ready Player One. Positives from reviews: - Engaging puzzles that readers can solve alongside characters - References to classic books that inspire kids to read more - Fast-paced plot that holds attention - Educational content about libraries without feeling didactic - Good for reluctant readers aged 9-12 Common criticisms: - Characters lack depth and development - Plot feels derivative of other works - Some puzzles too easy for older readers - Heavy-handed product placement for games/books Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (83,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (3,800+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 4/5 One parent reviewer noted: "My 10-year-old solved most puzzles before the characters did and felt proud." A middle school librarian reported: "Students keep requesting this book and checking our library catalog to find the referenced titles."

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl A competition filled with imaginative rooms, puzzles, and eccentric characters leads children through a wondrous building while testing their character and cleverness.

The Book Scavenger by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman Two kids follow clues through San Francisco to solve a literary puzzle game created by a mysterious publisher.

The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart A group of gifted children must pass complex tests and solve riddles to complete a secret mission at a mysterious school.

Floors by Patrick Carman A boy explores the mechanical marvels and hidden rooms of a unique hotel while completing tasks for its unusual owner.

The Candymakers by Wendy Mass Four children compete in a candy-making competition inside a factory filled with secrets, special rooms, and unexpected challenges.

🎲 The author, Chris Grabenstein, worked as an improvisational comedian and performed with Bruce Willis in the comedy troupe "Soldier's Song." 📚 The book has been translated into over 20 languages and was selected for more than 40 state award reading lists. 🎮 Luigi Lemoncello's character was partially inspired by Willy Wonka and real-life game makers like Milton Bradley. 🏛️ The futuristic library in the story features holograms and electronic games, but many of the puzzles require knowledge of real library systems like the Dewey Decimal Classification. 🎬 Nickelodeon adapted the book into a made-for-TV movie in 2017, featuring Casey Simpson as Kyle Keeley and Russell Roberts as Mr. Lemoncello.