Book Review

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library
By Chris Grabenstein

Twelve-year-old Kyle Keeley is a whiz when it comes to board games; a handy skill to have in helping to level the playing field in competition with two older brothers. As Kyle is about to find out, it may also give him a leg up as a participant in the opening of the town's new public library. You see, the benefactor behind such a generous gift (five hundred million dollars) to Alexandriaville is none other than Mr. Luigi Lemoncello, world famous game designer. An eclectic gentleman, to say the least, his institution will be like none ever seen before.

Mr. Keeley, being one of a dozen lucky children selected to take part in the library's special, "Invitation only" extravaganza, finds his skills put to the test as the mysteries of the lock-in unfold. More than just a night of food and entertaining activities, enough to wet anyone's whistle, Mr. Lemoncello has secretly planned an offering for his young contestants. His proposition? Escape from the library, fame and glory await!

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library borrows from some of the fantastical themes that made Charlie and the Chocolate Factory so popular; from mannerisms and a wardrobe with unique flair, not to mention characters distinctly comparing the title character to Willy Wonka. Readers will no doubt connect and take a shine to one of the many personalities as the story unfolds. If you self-identify with Charles, raise your hand. On second thought, it might be best to lay low. While library aficionados will find comfort in a familiar setting (giving a personal head nod to that), it’s the puzzles that will appeal to an even wider audience. You might even find yourself competing with/against individuals for solutions (another approving head nod). Brief chapters provide for quick pacing in a near 300-page novel with plenty of laughs and intrigue to satisfy most audiences.

Would you like to play a game?

Rating: 4.1 out of 5

This review is brought to you courtesy of YA Librarian, Chris.

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