Ten years after Chris Grabenstein’s “Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library” was released, we can now revisit the fabulously fun story through a new graphic novel version, illustrated by Douglas Holgate.
Kyle Keeley and his friends are invited to visit the new library designed by Luigi L. Lemoncello, designer of games galore. Twelve seventh-graders are invited to participate in a series of games and scavenger hunts in the library before the public can see the space.
Kyle and some of his friends — Akimi, Miguel, Sierra and Haley — work together to figure out the clues and solve the puzzle.
“Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library” is a story of teamwork and trust; never giving up (“Well, Kyle, let this be a lesson to us all. The game is never over until it’s over”); learning to be gentle with each other and our belongings; the act of being selfish versus sacrificial; and the power of knowledge and the importance of sharing it (“Knowledge not shared remains unknown.” Luigi L. Lemoncello).
It is filled with very colorful, fun illustrations by Holgate, excellently bringing to life the wonderful story Grabenstein created 10 years ago.
Children of all ages will enjoy this book, which is due out Nov. 7, as well as fans of authors like Lemony Snicket.
Five stars out of five.
Random House Graphic provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.