Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein

Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library

  by Chris Grabenstein

adventure, mystery, puzzle-type book

age 9-12

grade 4-7

291 pages 

c. 2013

              A fast paced fun read filled with all kinds of puzzles. I especially liked the rebus puzzles. Mr. Lemoncello is an eccentric, quirky billionaire with a great love of libraries. He also is an extraordinary gamer and has made his money in creating all sorts of games. The old library in his hometown was destroyed twelve years ago and he has created a new, state of the art library there. He has created a contest that will allow twelve children who are twelve years old to spend an overnight in the new library before it officially opens. Once there it is revealed to them that there is another contest for them to participate in. Using the resources of the library and their knowledge of the Dewey Decimal System they are to solve the clues and puzzles to find the hidden escape route that will let them exit the library which is now locked. The one who is able to exit first will win the grand prize and be featured in commercials advertising Mr. Lemoncello’s new games.

                The twelve students are a diverse bunch including gamers, overachievers, bookworms, library helpers, and a spoiled rich kid. At first they all work by themselves but quickly decide it is better to team up. During the process even the gamers discover the pleasure of reading a book. They also learn that loyalty, respect and teamwork produce better results than taking short cuts and cheating. The character development is not very deep but I think many will enjoy this as a fun read. A lot of book titles are mentioned along the way that might give some suggestions for other books to read.