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Lucky Scramble
Six competitive cubers face off at the Speed Cubing national championships in this graphic novel that's perfect for fans of Roller Girl and the Last Kids on Earth series.
Despite qualifying for the Speed Cubing National Championships in Las Vegas, twelve-year-old Tyler Goodman and his mom don’t have the money to get him there. That is, until the retailer CubeMania offers him one of their coveted all-expenses-paid sponsorships! But getting to Vegas is just the beginning: There are hundreds of speed cubers from around the country, and each has something to prove. Like Dirk, who's certain he's about to nab his third straight National Championship trophy. Lizzy and Izzy Peterson, twins who crush cubing competitions with the exact same moves and times—until one of them decides to break the mold. Renowned eight-year-old prodigy Eli Newton solved his first puzzle cube at five, yet his dad seems much more excited about the sport and there’s something . . . off about his cubes. And then there’s Miles Oldman, the first American to solve the cube in under 40 seconds, who’s back decades later to set some new records. As Lucky Scramble moves with lightning speed between the stories of these six contestants—plus that of CubeMania’s founder and CEO Victor Chen—puzzle cube devotees and fans of graphic novels alike won’t be able to resist racing through the pages until the very last cube has been solved.
Despite qualifying for the Speed Cubing National Championships in Las Vegas, twelve-year-old Tyler Goodman and his mom don’t have the money to get him there. That is, until the retailer CubeMania offers him one of their coveted all-expenses-paid sponsorships! But getting to Vegas is just the beginning: There are hundreds of speed cubers from around the country, and each has something to prove. Like Dirk, who's certain he's about to nab his third straight National Championship trophy. Lizzy and Izzy Peterson, twins who crush cubing competitions with the exact same moves and times—until one of them decides to break the mold. Renowned eight-year-old prodigy Eli Newton solved his first puzzle cube at five, yet his dad seems much more excited about the sport and there’s something . . . off about his cubes. And then there’s Miles Oldman, the first American to solve the cube in under 40 seconds, who’s back decades later to set some new records. As Lucky Scramble moves with lightning speed between the stories of these six contestants—plus that of CubeMania’s founder and CEO Victor Chen—puzzle cube devotees and fans of graphic novels alike won’t be able to resist racing through the pages until the very last cube has been solved.
192 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2023
15 people are currently reading
3197 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 12, 2024
I have always been a reader. My kids love video games and movies. After reading this book I gave it to my daughter and she read it in one day. Now she wants more of Peter Raymundo's books. The illustrations are great and full of color and the story is engaging. The book gets the cubing details right. The story moves quickly and it is exciting. It make my kids and I get a rubik's cube. We had so much fun. Everyone one should read this book.
December 3, 2024
Kids Graphic Novel Club December 2024
This was a fun read. I liked that it focused on different competitors and followed their stories from regionals to nationals—it felt sort of like a documentary in graphic novel form.
I’m interested to hear what the kids thought about the more hybrid format of this story, with some traditional panels mixed with paragraphs of text.
This was a fun read. I liked that it focused on different competitors and followed their stories from regionals to nationals—it felt sort of like a documentary in graphic novel form.
I’m interested to hear what the kids thought about the more hybrid format of this story, with some traditional panels mixed with paragraphs of text.
August 23, 2025
Cute story about wiz kids coming together for a national cubing competition…who will win?! What I enjoyed most is the hybrid GN and chapter book format. Great for upper elementary.
May 7, 2024
Enjoyable graphic hybrid about competitive cubing. I wish it was a true graphic novel, though, because the prose felt didactic at times.
October 2, 2024
I bought this book for the library because of our Rubik's Cube program. We have speed cube competitions and build Rubik's Cube mosaics as part of our Loud in the Library program. Tyler is a speed cuber, and although he is the main character, this isn't just his story. We also meet Dirk, Miles, Eli, Lizzy, and Izzy. They are all cubers, and all want to win the biggest cubing competition in the nation. They all have their own motivation for competing and their own stories.
I loved the illustrations and style of the book. I also didn't know that much about real cubing before reading the book. I hadn't heard of Phil Yu or the World Cube Association. Full confession, I still can't solve the cube. I can get the first two layers, and this book convinced me that I may still be able to solve it. You can see the Rubik's Cubes mosaics that my students build at #EastCubes on Instagram.
In our library in the fiction graphic novels (even though there are some pages of text).
GN RAYMUNDO
I loved the illustrations and style of the book. I also didn't know that much about real cubing before reading the book. I hadn't heard of Phil Yu or the World Cube Association. Full confession, I still can't solve the cube. I can get the first two layers, and this book convinced me that I may still be able to solve it. You can see the Rubik's Cubes mosaics that my students build at #EastCubes on Instagram.
In our library in the fiction graphic novels (even though there are some pages of text).
GN RAYMUNDO
November 3, 2024
Six different competitors meet up at a speed-cubing competition in Las Vegas. Tyler is 12, and hasn't been cubing that long, but he's good--it's pretty much the only thing he's really good at, but his mother can't afford to take him to Las Vegas. Luckily, he gets sponsored by the founder of CubeMania. Dirk is seventeen and unbeaten, and assumes he never will be beaten. His father wouldn't put up with that, anyway. Eli has a cubing podcast with his dad, who is more into Eli's success than he is in being a father. Izzy and Lizzy are identical twins, but are they really so similar in everything, now? Miles is elderly (which, I mean, really? He was 17 in 1982, which would make him 59 now, but they drew him as an old codger in his 70s or 80s. Do your basic math!). He was one of the original speed-cubers, and wants another shot. Let the competition begin.
I don't really know what to make of this book. It could have been done completely as a graphic novel, but long passages are just text, as if they couldn't be bothered to turn it all into a graphic novel, or they ran out of time, or something. It's awkward. It also read like a documentary or a book-length advertisement, in places. I did like the characters, though. I thought the most real moment was when Tyler got mad at his mom, who had promised to take him to Las Vegas if he won the qualifying competition, but had to renege because she's a single mom (his father died) and doesn't have the money. She asks him which bill he'd prefer she didn't pay so they could take the trip. The other characters all had believable (if pretty common) backstories--the twins wanting different things, the kids under parental pressure, etc. I think this will appeal to cubers, which is why we bought it for the library, but I don't know if it will have wider appeal.
I don't really know what to make of this book. It could have been done completely as a graphic novel, but long passages are just text, as if they couldn't be bothered to turn it all into a graphic novel, or they ran out of time, or something. It's awkward. It also read like a documentary or a book-length advertisement, in places. I did like the characters, though. I thought the most real moment was when Tyler got mad at his mom, who had promised to take him to Las Vegas if he won the qualifying competition, but had to renege because she's a single mom (his father died) and doesn't have the money. She asks him which bill he'd prefer she didn't pay so they could take the trip. The other characters all had believable (if pretty common) backstories--the twins wanting different things, the kids under parental pressure, etc. I think this will appeal to cubers, which is why we bought it for the library, but I don't know if it will have wider appeal.
January 23, 2024
After Tyler Gooden’s father passed away, Tyler’s Rubik’s Cube became an unexpected source of comfort. In just a couple of short years, Tyler’s persistence and dedication catapulted him to the top of the regional championships because of the speed with which he can solve his cube. Unfortunately, Tyler and his mother do not have the funds to attend the national championships in Las Vegas, so Tyler decides all he can do is continue practicing. But when a surprise email lands in his inbox, Tyler finds himself flying across the United States to compete with the greatest hands in the country, and he must be brave enough to give the competition all he has despite the odds. This middle grade novel is an entertaining blend of a traditional narrative and a colorful graphic novel. By presenting the story in this way, the novel is able to dive deeper into the character development while giving the plot the momentum it needs. Though there is not much in the way of depth to the storytelling, the overall presentation feels like a high-stakes speed competition and readers will be anxiously making their way to the end to discover what happens next. Readers who are cubers themselves will be especially drawn to this story and its messages, but even readers who have never solved a Rubik’s Cube will appreciate the dedication and commitment people must have to become skilled at this activity. Engaging and with a positive overall message, this is a fun and unique addition to library collections for young middle grade readers.
August 19, 2025
I think this would have been a stronger book if it had been entirely a graphic novel. The spots of prose didn't have a rhyme or reason - sometimes it seemed like the artist just ran out of time or didn't want to illustrate everything.
The tone was uneven. Sometimes it was teaching / explaining - which was unnecessary. I've read other books about subjects I am not 100% familiar with, and they let the reader discover the ins and outs through the story rather than pulling out of the story to explain things. Other times, the characters broke the "fourth-wall" and talked directly to the reader, but not always - so, if this was done consistently, it could have been like a documentary-style book, have a "host" there to explain some things if you want, etc. But since it wasn't consistent, it was just weird.
The characters were pretty good, if a little scattered. Perhaps the main character, Tyler, should have interacted with all of them at some point at least. Plus an addition of someone new to cubing but excited to get their personal best time would have been good to represent that other end of the spectrum rather than focusing on all champions.
I'm coming at this review as a fan of and avid reader of middle grade graphic novels, with a history of working with Rubik's Cube for seven years. I've coordinated a fair amount of competitions, and yes, can solve the Cube myself.
The tone was uneven. Sometimes it was teaching / explaining - which was unnecessary. I've read other books about subjects I am not 100% familiar with, and they let the reader discover the ins and outs through the story rather than pulling out of the story to explain things. Other times, the characters broke the "fourth-wall" and talked directly to the reader, but not always - so, if this was done consistently, it could have been like a documentary-style book, have a "host" there to explain some things if you want, etc. But since it wasn't consistent, it was just weird.
The characters were pretty good, if a little scattered. Perhaps the main character, Tyler, should have interacted with all of them at some point at least. Plus an addition of someone new to cubing but excited to get their personal best time would have been good to represent that other end of the spectrum rather than focusing on all champions.
I'm coming at this review as a fan of and avid reader of middle grade graphic novels, with a history of working with Rubik's Cube for seven years. I've coordinated a fair amount of competitions, and yes, can solve the Cube myself.
February 15, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC.
Tyler Goodman is a competitive cuber and although he has qualified for the National Speed Cubing Championships in Las Vegas, the prospects of getting there are slim. Things have been tight for him and his mom ever since his dad, who introduced him to cubing, died. Luckily, Tyler is offered a sponsorship by CubeMania, enabling the two to head to Vegas. At the same time, six other speedcubers are headed to the Championships, each with something to prove. There's Dirk, the favorite to win National Champion for the third year in a row. Twins, Lizzy and Izzy, have always cubed in the exact same way at the exact same times--until one of them starts to go off on her own. An eight-year-old prodigy and his pushy dad, as well as Miles Oldman, an old man, and the first American to solve a cube in under 40 seconds.
What worked for me: The fast pace and moving between characters helped this book move quickly. I also enjoyed learning about competitive cubing. I didn't know anything about that world until I read this book.
What didn't work for me: Some of the characters were genuinely unlikeable and a little TOO one-dimensional. Naming your hero "Goodman", a fast character "Speedman" and an old character "Oldman" was also a little too on the nose for me.
Tyler Goodman is a competitive cuber and although he has qualified for the National Speed Cubing Championships in Las Vegas, the prospects of getting there are slim. Things have been tight for him and his mom ever since his dad, who introduced him to cubing, died. Luckily, Tyler is offered a sponsorship by CubeMania, enabling the two to head to Vegas. At the same time, six other speedcubers are headed to the Championships, each with something to prove. There's Dirk, the favorite to win National Champion for the third year in a row. Twins, Lizzy and Izzy, have always cubed in the exact same way at the exact same times--until one of them starts to go off on her own. An eight-year-old prodigy and his pushy dad, as well as Miles Oldman, an old man, and the first American to solve a cube in under 40 seconds.
What worked for me: The fast pace and moving between characters helped this book move quickly. I also enjoyed learning about competitive cubing. I didn't know anything about that world until I read this book.
What didn't work for me: Some of the characters were genuinely unlikeable and a little TOO one-dimensional. Naming your hero "Goodman", a fast character "Speedman" and an old character "Oldman" was also a little too on the nose for me.
July 25, 2024
Very cool! I learned a lot about cubing.
Tyler has often been called slow - but he is really fast at cubing! Like he says - he might not read a book very fast, but he can unscramble or solve a cube faster than almost anyone. His dad passed away three years ago which made him super sad. Then one day, he found the cube his dad had bought for him. He had never been able to solve it, but he decides to learn how to honor his dad. And he ends up winning Regionals. Unfortunately, he and his mom don't have a lot of money so he doesn't think he will be able to compete in the National Championshiop. But then he receives the golden ticket of sorts. A sponsorship!
The book did remind me a bit of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Chocolate, like the cubes, should be a bit of an equalizer. But winning - or the desire to win - can cause some folks to do strange things.
The book is mostly graphic novel with small stretches of text interspersed. This is a great format and I think the book will appeal to a wide range of readers.
It has a diverse cast of kids also. And Tyler has some great positive influences appear in his life. A feel good story!
Tyler has often been called slow - but he is really fast at cubing! Like he says - he might not read a book very fast, but he can unscramble or solve a cube faster than almost anyone. His dad passed away three years ago which made him super sad. Then one day, he found the cube his dad had bought for him. He had never been able to solve it, but he decides to learn how to honor his dad. And he ends up winning Regionals. Unfortunately, he and his mom don't have a lot of money so he doesn't think he will be able to compete in the National Championshiop. But then he receives the golden ticket of sorts. A sponsorship!
The book did remind me a bit of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Chocolate, like the cubes, should be a bit of an equalizer. But winning - or the desire to win - can cause some folks to do strange things.
The book is mostly graphic novel with small stretches of text interspersed. This is a great format and I think the book will appeal to a wide range of readers.
It has a diverse cast of kids also. And Tyler has some great positive influences appear in his life. A feel good story!
April 30, 2024
As a parent of a child who went through a Rubik's cube phase just short of speedcubing itself, he has an entire collection of cubes that are various shapes, styles, and of course, sizes. He impressed everyone with his skills, so I was delighted to read this graphic novel/narrative mashup of a middle grade featuring Tyler, a kid who lost his dad and a bevy of other speedcubers from an older guy who was a hobbyist before it was national competition worthy, commercialized sport speedcubers, a set of twin girls, and a young son whose father believes him to be the next greatest sensation (though at a cost to be revealed before the end of the book).
It's a peek inside the competitive world by teaching readers about it and giving pieces of advice but still sharing a fictionalized story of a group of people coming together for a competition. The mashup format is "take it or leave it"-- I understand the need to provide some narrative context, but it could have been 100% graphic novel and not lost it's essence.
Visibility for speedcubing!
It's a peek inside the competitive world by teaching readers about it and giving pieces of advice but still sharing a fictionalized story of a group of people coming together for a competition. The mashup format is "take it or leave it"-- I understand the need to provide some narrative context, but it could have been 100% graphic novel and not lost it's essence.
Visibility for speedcubing!
May 8, 2024
As someone who has actually competed in multiple Rubik's cube national championships, this book was ok. Obviously I am not the targeted age demographic so I won't be to harsh.
I had a couple of problems with it. Some characters were not very realistic, it made some mistakes in how competitions/ the Rubik's cube community in general are run, and it only gave us perspective of fast solvers. Most solvers are not world class but still have fun competing in big events for the communities and friendships that are there.
I would probably give it 2.5 stars if I could cuz I still like that it is trying to help grow the hobby. I think a little more effort with actually finding out what real cubers are like would have helped it be more charming. Again I will say that it is a children's book so I am trying to not be to critical.
Overall, I liked the pacing of the book a lot and how it switched between characters. The diversity of character backgrounds were very accurately. This was a nice easy read for kids and I'm sure a lot of smart and creative kids will find it fascinating.
I had a couple of problems with it. Some characters were not very realistic, it made some mistakes in how competitions/ the Rubik's cube community in general are run, and it only gave us perspective of fast solvers. Most solvers are not world class but still have fun competing in big events for the communities and friendships that are there.
I would probably give it 2.5 stars if I could cuz I still like that it is trying to help grow the hobby. I think a little more effort with actually finding out what real cubers are like would have helped it be more charming. Again I will say that it is a children's book so I am trying to not be to critical.
Overall, I liked the pacing of the book a lot and how it switched between characters. The diversity of character backgrounds were very accurately. This was a nice easy read for kids and I'm sure a lot of smart and creative kids will find it fascinating.
July 6, 2024
Six competitive cubers face off at the Speed Cubing National championships where there can only be one winner.
✖️
Tyler Goodman recently qualified for the biggest championship anyone can attend for speed cubing, but his mom doesn’t have the money to take him to Las Vegas for the event. When Tyler gets sponsorship from the retailer CubeMania, he’s pumped to live out the dream he had with his father before he passed. When Tyler gets there he meets prodigy Eli, the first American to solve the cube in under forty seconds, twins who consistently tie each other and Dirk, who’s the reigning champ. Tyler is nervous, but puts his all into every match.
➗
I have no idea how this MG book got past me, but I’m so glad I stumbled upon it recently. This title is part prose, part graphic novel in the art style of Roller Girl and Jerry Craft books I loved how fast-paced it was and how accessible for students not looking for a full length novel to read. The topic of speed cubing is one I’ve never read about before either so it’s a breath of fresh air!
CW: cheating, parental death (discussed), grief
✖️
Tyler Goodman recently qualified for the biggest championship anyone can attend for speed cubing, but his mom doesn’t have the money to take him to Las Vegas for the event. When Tyler gets sponsorship from the retailer CubeMania, he’s pumped to live out the dream he had with his father before he passed. When Tyler gets there he meets prodigy Eli, the first American to solve the cube in under forty seconds, twins who consistently tie each other and Dirk, who’s the reigning champ. Tyler is nervous, but puts his all into every match.
➗
I have no idea how this MG book got past me, but I’m so glad I stumbled upon it recently. This title is part prose, part graphic novel in the art style of Roller Girl and Jerry Craft books I loved how fast-paced it was and how accessible for students not looking for a full length novel to read. The topic of speed cubing is one I’ve never read about before either so it’s a breath of fresh air!
CW: cheating, parental death (discussed), grief
February 3, 2024
A unique story about competitive rubik cube solving. Told from five different perspectives, from multiple ages, genders, and background, this is a quick read with half novel half graphics. It was fun to read but so much of this book was just explaining rubik's cubes and the competition process that I didn't really feel like I got to know the characters all that well. Also, two of the stories featured such distasteful characters that I wanted to skip over them because I could not like Dirk or Eli's dad. There's a hopeful message about being yourself and never giving up, but it just felt so weird and like it had to happen the way it did. I think grade school kids who are interested in puzzles will like this though, and the style allows for easy reading which makes this a good hi-lo book.
Copy provided by NetGalley.
Copy provided by NetGalley.
May 1, 2024
Lucky Scramble introduces readers to seven different characters representing a variety of backgrounds and ages who all are competitive speedcubers. As they make their way to the national championship event in Las Vegas, the backstories of each competitor unfold. Their stories intersect as they face each other during the competition, where they’ll need to persevere and overcome obstacles to win the championship.
For those who aren’t familiar with the world of speedcubing, the book provides an introduction to the world of competitive cubing. The book’s hybrid format that includes a combination of narrative content and graphic novel style panels will engage readers who might be reluctant to dive into a completely narrative text. The fast pace and dramatic competition angle will keep readers hooked.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of the book to read and review.
For those who aren’t familiar with the world of speedcubing, the book provides an introduction to the world of competitive cubing. The book’s hybrid format that includes a combination of narrative content and graphic novel style panels will engage readers who might be reluctant to dive into a completely narrative text. The fast pace and dramatic competition angle will keep readers hooked.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of the book to read and review.
January 18, 2024
Tyler (shown here) does well in the regional speed cubing championships, but can't afford to go to the national ones with cubers like champion Dirk Speedman, twins Izzy and Lizzy, prodigy Eli Newton, and 60-something almost champ Miles Wizzinski. Wen he is sponsored by Vincent Chan of CubeMania, he and his mother head to Las Vegas. Tyler does well, but at a critical moment, his cube breaks, but he gets help from an unexpected source. Lots of good information about this pursuit, told in a hybrid notebook novel/graphic novel style. Can't think of any other books on this topic, so I will buy.
September 29, 2024
Graphic hybrid following the stories of multiple people as they enter the big Speed Cubing National Championships in Vegas.
Tyler is using the lucky cube given to him by his late father. Miles just wants to be recognized again more than 40 years after his first competition. Twins Izzy and Lizzy always complete their cubes in the exact same amount of time. Dirk is the reigning champion with the ego of a lion. And wow, Eli Newton… his father needs to get a grip.
Tyler is using the lucky cube given to him by his late father. Miles just wants to be recognized again more than 40 years after his first competition. Twins Izzy and Lizzy always complete their cubes in the exact same amount of time. Dirk is the reigning champion with the ego of a lion. And wow, Eli Newton… his father needs to get a grip.
May 12, 2024
I just didn't enjoy this one. It doesn't feel like a gn even though it claims to be; way too much text and the pictures aren't really necessary to the story. The text was very robotic. I did like the cast of characters (even if some of them were pretty horrible) as it really showed the whole "cubing is for everyone" idea.
June 12, 2024
This turns cubing into a fast-paced sport tournament, which is not my favorite kind of book to read. But I love the heavy sports treatment, having the graphic panels really helps you understand the way the cube works. And there's a nice focus on a wide variety of different cubers, though they do rely on stereoype a little.
July 7, 2024
Really enjoyed this unique graphic novel hybrid about speed cube competitions! I loved getting the backstory about different competitors, and rooting for each of them in different ways! Also liked that the characters showed the range of age, gender, and background in speed cubing. Lots of positive messaging, and Tyler is a character to root for!
October 14, 2024
I picked this book up because several of my students this year are rubrix cube fanatics. Part novel/part graphic novel, this book really won me over. It tells multiple-points of view of various characters, all with their stories of personal growth. Definitely need to add this one to my classroom library.
December 15, 2024
Sooo confused about the POV in this one—like who are the characters talking to?? And why are only some of them talking to the off-page camera crew or whoever they are? Strange shifts between tones sometimes, also.
But I quickly became so invested in these characters and their stories. Though I really learned nothing technical about cubing, I loved being immersed in the world.
But I quickly became so invested in these characters and their stories. Though I really learned nothing technical about cubing, I loved being immersed in the world.
December 17, 2024
This is the type of book that is for sure a niche genre for someone who really needs it. There are kids beyond obsessed with Rubik's cube who would devour these pages. The actual writing quality isn't anything to rave about, but the fact that the book combines a traditional novel with a graphic novel is for sure a style I'd love to see continue.
December 28, 2025
I wanted more from this. I just read a whole book on speed cubing and still don’t have the first clue how to solve a cube. Technique names and combinations are thrown out like the reader is expected to follow, but there’s no explanation. Also, the awful characters all still got a happy ending without consequences which is just SO annoying.
May 12, 2024
An enjoyable read about competitive cubing. Half graphic novel/half regular read. Also felt it was half fiction/half reading a non fiction book. I would have liked it better if it was all a graphic novel.
July 6, 2024
I loved this book and all the different characters that it brought together in their attempt to be the fastest. A lot of life lessons that are easily relatable and could lead to further conversations. Who doesn’t love the Rubik’s cube?
November 13, 2024
I watched a documentary on speed cubing a while ago, and it was fascinating. So I read this as soon as we got it in my library. It is a fun, quick read, and while it teaches a lot about the world of speed cubing, it is more broadly about how we find the places where we are accepted.
April 21, 2025
Fun, fast-paced book about the world of speed cubing. A little heavy-handed with the messaging about staying positive and working for success but the illustrations and the exciting competition stories keep it fun.
June 21, 2025
4 stars
When Tyler Gooden makes it to the Speed Cubing national championship, he is excited, but his mom can't afford the trip. Then Cube Mania sponsors him and he gets to meet six other cubers looking for a title and a place to belong.
When Tyler Gooden makes it to the Speed Cubing national championship, he is excited, but his mom can't afford the trip. Then Cube Mania sponsors him and he gets to meet six other cubers looking for a title and a place to belong.
June 4, 2024
Here is a graphic novel based on real people who have made it to the National Speed Cubing Championships in Las Vegas. This graphic novel will definitely inspire new “cubers”, both young AND old!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews