Chris Grabenstein’s latest middle school book is for all of us who love libraries, kids in libraries, and everything libraries stand for. I can’t discuss Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics as passionately as I would like to without spoiling a main plot point. So, no matter how the review sounds, try this fun story.
Kyle Keeley and his friends in Alexandriaville, Ohio, may have won gamemaker Luigi Lemoncello’s first competition in his unique library, but now middle school library lovers throughout the country are saying it isn’t fair that only the kids from Mr. Lemoncello’s hometown were allowed to compete. So, the gamemaker sets up a nationwide competition, and kids through the country compete to represent their region in the Library Olympics. Kyle and his team represent the Home Team, but that doesn’t mean they have a better chance than the other teams.
It’s a competition amongst teams of the top library nerds in the country, and once Kyle sees Marjory Muldauer, he’s afraid he and his friends don’t have a chance. She knows everything about the Dewey Decimal System. But, some of the games involve knowledge of books, research skills, and book cart relays. The winners will receive full scholarships to the colleges of their choices. And, Marjory, along with a few interested townspeople, are determined that Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics will not be the fun, innovative event he planned.
Once again, Chris Grabenstein manages to make books and reading fun. His latest book builds in intensity as the competition heats up. It’s an action-packed, plot-driven story. Readers of all ages should appreciate the whimsical book, filled with literary references, wordplay, and outrageous humor at times. It’s a witty, inspiring story.
I’m a big fan of all of Grabenstein’s books, adult and juvenile. But, for a book lover, this one is perfect with the love of books and libraries. It even contains a complete book list of every book mentioned in Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics. Give it to any middle school reader who wants humor and competition. For some, the passion for books will be a bonus. It always is for this book and library lover.
Chris Grabenstein’s website is www.ChrisGrabenstein.com
Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics by Chris Grabenstein. Random House. 2016. ISBN 9780553510409 (hardcover), 278p.
*****
FTC Full Disclosure – Library book
I keep meaning to read some of his books for younger people. Selfishly, I'd still love to know if there will be another Ceepak/Boyle book. I'm caught up there. LOL
Until he got to Mr. Lemoncello, Kay, his children's books were scary stories, as my sister said, too scary for her. It depends what you're looking for, except for Ceepak/Boyle.
That sounds really good. I've read some of Grabenstein's adult mysteries set on the Jersey Shore (the Ceepak books). I'll check this one out.
I really enjoyed the first of these books. I will have to be sure to get this one.
Witty, clever, amusing, thoughtful,…a winner
Thanks for this review Lesa. I immediately ordered this to send to my grandson, an avid reader.