Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein (Random House, New York) The excitement is building in Alexandriaville as Mr. Lemoncello, game designer extraordinaire, prepares to invite 12 lucky 12-year-old contest winners to the grand opening of his wonderful new library.
Since the town's previous library was torn down 12 years before, these children have never had the pleasure of the library experience.
Kyle Keeley is absolutely entranced by board games - by books, not so much - but his lame attempt to write a prize-winning essay at the last minute, actually wins him a spot. He and the others have a fantastic night, beginning with a tour conducted by Dr. Yanna Zinchenko, world-famous librarian.
While the kids are having a ball discovering the new facility's wonders, Mr. Lemoncello explains to their parents his wonderful idea for a living board game. The kids will have to find a way out of the library within 24 hours! The parents buy into the plan and the stage is set for non-stop action as 12 game-crazy kids try to solve the various clues provided for them. In the process, personalities are revealed, cheaters are caught and alliances are made.
The library proves to be truly an amazing place and I just wish I had the opportunity to work in it! Grabenstein's thrilling puzzler is perfect for kids who loved Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Middle grade readers who enjoy this title might like the following mysteries: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl A fabulous contest involving a candy factory. The book has been made into two movies.
From the mixed-up files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg A modern classic set in the Metropolitan Museum of Art Hold Fast by Blue Balliett Early's wonderful dad who works in a Chicago library and loves words suddenly disappears.
The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart Four gifted children are sent to infiltrate a mysterious organization and discover its secrets.
The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin Incredibly complicated plot involving heirs to an estate who are offered a prize to solve a murder mystery.
Fran Ashdown worked for many years as the head of the children's department at the Capilano branch of North Vancouver District Library. She can't decide whether she wants to work in Mr. Lemoncello's library or a candy factory. For more information check your local libraries.
