Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics: The Graphic Novel

Mr. Lemoncello's Library Graphic Novels #2

by Chris Grabenstein, Douglas Holgate (Illustrator)

Welcome, boys and girls, readers of all ages, to the first-ever Library Olympics! Kyle and his teammates are back, and the world-famous game maker Luigi Lemoncello is at it again!
 
This time Mr. Lemoncello has invited teams from all across America to compete in the first-ever LIBRARY OLYMPICS. But something suspicious is going on . . . books are missing from Mr. Lemoncello’s library. Is someone trying to censor what the kids are reading?! Now it’s not just a game—can Mr. Lemoncello find the real defenders of books and champions of libraries? In between figuring out mind-boggling challenges, the kids will have to band together to get to the bottom of this mystery.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Middle Grade, Books About Books, Childrens, Fiction, Mystery

256 pages, Hardcover

First published October 14, 2025

About the author

CHRIS GRABENSTEIN is a #1 New York Times bestselling author. His books include the LEMONCELLO, WONDERLAND, HAUNTED MYSTERY, DOG SQUAD, and SMARTEST KID IN THE UNIVERSE series, and many fun and funny page-turners co-authored with James Patterson. You can visit Chris at ChrisGrabenstein.com.

Reviews

[Mara K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

an amazing book, really captures the essence of the orignal.
the only thing is that i would have liked it too be longer, and hint at the "uncle woody" betrayel.
and i would have liked more during the puzzels.
but the drawings were delightful, espailly the one of "uncle woody" instrision.
a very enjoyable read, and i would reccomend.

thanks to netgalley and the publisher for letting me read it in advance!

[Kristi Drillien · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.5 / 5)

After their big win in Mr. Lemoncello’s escape game, Team Keeley is challenged by basically every kid in the country. They all want their chance at stardom (starring in commercials for Mr. Lemoncello games) and are unhappy that the contest was so localized. So Mr. Lemoncello grants them their wish, because hey, that means he gets to create more games! The top teams in each region of the country are chosen and invited to Ohio to compete for full college scholarships—against Kyle’s team. The only problem is that Kyle isn’t so sure he’s up to the challenge this time.

I read and reviewed the original book, so this review is less about the story and content than it is about the graphic novel format. That being said, I enjoyed the story a little more this time than the previous, and I think that might just be because the graphic novel format lends itself so well to this series! Mr. Lemoncello is such a character as it is, and he's really brought to life in images. (Maybe they should have gone with animation when they made a movie out of the first book.) It's fun to see the library itself, as well, and being shown the puzzles feels more natural this way (not that I'm complaining about Grabenstein including visual puzzles in the original books). As for this book, though, I think that fans of the series will enjoy this new format, but I'd imagine that the idea for it is more to encourage kids who don't care to read regular books to pick up this illustrated version and enjoy the story. Since I had already read the original book, I can't say for sure how the story will come across to a newcomer, but I think it would be a fun read for 8-12-year-olds!

Thank you to Netgalley and Random House Children’s Books for providing me a copy of this book to review.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ekkkkkk! The graphics version of Library Olympics is fantabulous!

As a librarian and a mother of a 2nd grader this format grabs the reader, just as the original book grabbed me when it was published. This is a must read, like all Chris Grabenstein titles-especially if it's "Hello, a Lemoncello."

I adored that I got to share this book with my son. I cannot wait for the rest of the series to be completed in graphic.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series and feel it translates so well to a graphic novel form! This is the second illustrated trip to Mr. Lemoncello’s library and it packs in the familiar formula that makes Chris Grabenstein’s books a fun-filled success: puzzles! Competitions! All the books you can imagine! Douglas Holgate’s illustrations are boldly colored, thickly lined, action packed and a visual feast. If you love literature of libraries and the wonders of Willy Wonka, this book is a must-read. I enjoyed playing along with the teams of kids from all across the country as they vied for free college tuition. I can’t wait to read the next book!

[Lauren | TransportedLFL · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Random House Kids for the free book. These opinions are my own.

This is such an adorable graphic novel. It's part of a series, but I was able to catch on quickly without having read the previous books. The illustrations were very well done and captured most of the action of the book.

Most of all, I love that this highlights the importance of libraries. It encourages freedom of expression and is against book bans. And it shows kids they too can be library champions.

I'll be sharing it in my own Little Free Library with my community.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is second in a series of library adventures in a fun graphic format with immersion in fantastic colors. Reinforces the fun of books and the need for libraries that are available to us all.
Douglas Holgate designs the illustrations and the implementation of colors is by Marta Todeschini.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Random House Children's Books | Random House Graphic via NetGalley. Pub Date Oct 14, 2025
#MrLemoncellosLibraryOlympicsTheGraphicNovel by @chrisgrabenstein #MrLemoncellosLibraryBk2 @rhkidsgraphic @randomhousechildrens @childrensbookcouncil
#graphicnovel #bookshop_org #bookshop_org_uk #indiebookstoresca #librarian #libraries

[Sabrina Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This graphic novel was perfect for me and my daughter to read together. She is eight and doesn’t love lots of words on a page. Chapter books discourage her sometimes. The graphics were so vibrate and drew you in to the story. She really enjoyed the story line and it was easy for her to read and follow. We can’t wait to read more books from this series! Thanks Net Galley for this ARC!

[Ariel K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for an ARC.

This was a very fun graphic novel, very reminiscent of the TV Show The Librarians meets a game show with a zany host - a more likable Willy Wonka.

I think children from 7-12 maybe slightly older would enjoy this book/series. The graphic novel illustrations were a bit loud for myself where each page/frame had a high saturated color scheme with lots of action or detailed scenes. For some kids this age this is an A++ as far as the illustration goes.

The story was fun, definitely has that comedic element that’s similar to a children’s cartoon. I love the Librarian’s New Game that he creates, and the ‘bad’ kid/mom - characters feel real for grownups - think helicopter/Tiger parent who tries to take over/extert their power. A little close to home if you know what I mean!! 😅

I would recommend for kids who enjoy graphic novels with any sort of playful, slightly magical, game-like story play.

[Marinda (rindasreads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

As soon as she found out I had an early electronic copy of the next graphic novel in the Mr. Lemoncello series, my eight-year-old daughter snagged it from me and devoured the book in one sitting. She has a hard time making it through longer novels, so she's very into graphic novels right now, and I love that there is this option for her to experience the world of Luigi Lemoncello. She absolutely loved the book, and after she finished and I reclaimed my tablet, I found that I was quickly whisked away and I finished the book in one sitting also!

With all the charm, humor, and puzzling antics of the original books, these graphic novels bring the stories and riddles to life by adding full-color illustrations that move the plot along quickly.

We can't wait for the next one!

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for giving me (us) an advanced copy to review. All opinions are my own (with a little help from Sophie).

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

This graphic novel adaptation of Chris Grabenstein’s series is full of fun, puzzles, and excitement! Kids compete in library-themed Olympic games, solving challenges that test their creativity and teamwork. The colorful illustrations make the story even more engaging, and the fast-paced action keeps readers hooked.
Perfect for middle-grade readers who love mysteries, games, and clever problem-solving, this book is a playful adventure that celebrates curiosity and friendship. Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to review this.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some parts of the book were definitely missing, which was sad. Kyle is supposed to play a game against “Uncle Woody” in order to win the books. And “Uncle Woody” calls the cops to Mr. Lemoncello’s library. But it was pretty good aside from a few detours from the original story.

[Laurel Zeisler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read this whole series and loved them. This graphic novel was well done. I would recommend this for readers who are reluctant to read chapter books.

[Bibliohiker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book. The Mr.Lemoncello series is one of my favorite kids’ series and the graphic novel makes the story come to life. I like how for the most part, all the kids work together to solve the puzzles. As the story progresses, it takes a few of them to realize the goods they made. I like how the kids fight for what’s right and what they believe in.

[Bozhena Levine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Random House Children's Books, Random House Graphic, and NetGalley for the advanced electronic review copy of this book. This is a second graphic novel adaptation of the beloved Mr. Lemoncello series and it was as fabulous as the first one! A never ending adventure and a gift to readers everywhere, shining with power of reading and importance of books and libraries. Can’t wait to share it with my students and hoping for another graphic novel adaptation volume.

[Kat]

It's like Wonka for libraries

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the wild success of Mr. Lemoncello’s inaugural library lock-in, youth around the country begin complaining about the fact that the winners of the game all hail from the same town. To address these sentiments, Mr. Lemoncello decides to host the first ever Library Olympics, featuring middle school students from around the United States. The games are increasingly complex, and everyone must use their skills—and avoid temptation—in order to win. This graphic novel version of the novel of the same name makes the longer chapter book more accessible to readers who prefer visual storytelling. The primary elements of the original story are included, and the thoughtful, cartoon-like illustrations make the overall plot clear. Additionally, a plethora of library-related facts and details abound in the book, satisfying even the most voracious of bookworms. Word bubbles pair with energetic imagery to give voices to each of the characters, and readers will appreciate being able to visualize the speakers as the story progresses. A diverse set of characters is depicted throughout the book, including various skin tones and cultural apparel, which helps to ensure that readers from many backgrounds will recognize similar faces within the novel. Though the primary adults are nearly all fair skinned, the youth represent a wider spread of humanity. Colorful and vibrant, the visual element of this graphic novel makes it appealing to young children, and the story can be enjoyed whether readers are familiar with the traditional novel in advance or not. Fast-paced and filled with fun library trivia, this book is an enjoyable addition to graphic novel collections for middle grade readers.

[Sara Wise · Rating 5 out of 5]

** “It’s amazing what one can do when one shares knowledge with others.” **

We can now revisit Chris Grabenstein’s “Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics” as a wildly fun new graphic novel version, illustrated by Douglas Holgate.

Kyle Keeley and his friends are celebrating their recent victory of Mr. Lemoncello’s library games, when they receive an invitation to participate in his next challenge — one featuring regional teams from throughout the country. But what they don’t know is there are forces working against them to destroy Mr. Lemoncello and his unique library.

Can the team once again win the competition? And can they foil Mr. Lemoncello’s opponents?

Grabenstein does a great job of creating a fun story with all sorts of quirky characters. He also fills it with great themes, like the importance of teamwork; not being selfish; knowledge can be both powerful and frightening; “knowledge not shared remains unknown”; there is freedom when free people can read freely; and always stand up for what’s right, no matter the cost.

“Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics: The Graphic Novel” is also filled with very colorful, fun illustrations by Holgate, excellently bringing to life the wonderful story Grabenstein created originally in story form. Children of all ages will enjoy this book, which is due out Oct. 14, as well as fans of authors like Lemony Snicket and James Patterson’s “Treasure Hunters” series.

Five stars out of five.

Random House Graphic provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.

[Becky B · Rating 4 out of 5]

A graphic novel adaptation of Chris Grabenstein’s story about Mr. Lemoncello’s 2nd competition, this time opened up for teams from all over the country. They are playing for college scholarships, but someone is stealing books from the library and it’s going to ruin the competition. And Mrs. Chiltington is pitching a fit about the library being run by one man and not a board of trustees. Mr. Lemoncello gets so frustrated with the theft he leaves. Can Kyle and others figure out whose been stealing books so the competition can finish?

This was a faithful adaptation from the original novel. It does a good job of keeping the same tone, and still including visual puzzles for readers to solve along with Kyle and the other competitors. I like how the story awards honesty, being a good sport, fair play, and celebrates how libraries provide access to stories and information.

Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: None
Violence: None
Ethnic diversity: The kids in the competition come from a multitude of ethnic backgrounds.
LGBTQ+ content: None specified.
Other: Some people have stolen books because they don’t want certain history read or don’t want anyone to be able to read fiction or nonfiction about an animal they hate.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the graphic novel adaptation of the second book in Chris Grabenstein’s Mr. Lemoncello series, on the heels of their victory in the first Lemoncello library games, Kyle and his friends are invited to play in the Lemoncello Library Olympics. They’ll be playing against teams of library lovers from around the country. With a full ride to college at stake, the participants are eager to compete in the new games Mr. Lemoncello has designed. They soon find that in addition to battling each other, they’re also competing against some outside forces who don’t agree with Mr. Lemoncello’s vision of a library. They’ll need to join come together to figure out what’s going on and who is behind it so they can solve this important riddle.

The story is fast paced with lots of action and a variety of clever puzzles and challenges that readers can dive into alongside the competitors. Vividly colored illustrations complement and bring the library themed challenges to life. The book is more than just fun and games, as it also is a timely and kid-accessible tale that delivers a powerful message about the joy of libraries and the freedom to read.

[Jesus Gonzalez · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a school librarian, I'm always looking for graphic novels that would be a valuable addition to our school collection. When I requested this ARC, I hadn't read the original novels or Volume 1 of the graphic novel. While it was relatively easy to get acquainted with the characters, I do recommend having some background knowledge before diving into this volume. Some graphic novels can be enjoyed as stand-alones, but this one is not among them.

The plot was easy to follow and engaging. However, I have some concerns about the characters' behaviors throughout the story. We are living in a time when characters portrayed as snotty or unlikable can be viewed negatively by today's parents. I am definitely going back to read Volume 1 before deciding whether to add it to our collection.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced reader copy.

[Amanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

Having not read the original versions of the books, but always looking for safe graphic novels for my library, I wanted to give this one a try. I just never had a good feeling through the entire book. All of the kids had bad attitudes, and were rather cutthroat (I DO understand this is a competition, but there are parts that are rather underhanded) and I just didn't enjoy it at all. It now makes me wonder if I should read the originals and if those same bad attitudes are reflected in there, pull them from my library. I want our kids to be reading uplifting, encouraging things that make them better members of society rather than learning how to tear each other down with attitudes. :-(

I was given an ARC to read through NetGalley. My opinions are entirely my own.

[Ashley Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

My 8 year old daughter read and reviewed this graphic novel for me. She shared that she enjoyed the plot of the book and that it was very unique. She said the graphics were wonderful and kept her glued to every page. When asked what her favorite part was, she couldn't decide and stated that she loved the whole book! We will be looking for more books in the series soon!

Thank you to Chris Grabenstein, Random House Children's Books, and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this when it originally came out, but I loved rediscovering it in graphic novel format. This really hits home with kids learning the message about book banning and why some people want to do it and why you shouldn’t. Just like the first one it’s a great companion to the original chapter book series, and I hope they continue to make every book in the series into a graphic novel .

[D.T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Knowledge can be a very powerful and, for some, frightening thing. Especially when that knowledge is shared."

I thought this started slowly for me, but I really began to enjoy it as I read further.

This made me think of those who oppose libraries, and how we have to fight for our right to knowledge and the freedom to select books, including banned ones.

3.5

[Mrs.MakesReadingFun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series!

[Andréa]

Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Hayden Parrish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really awesome and good. It’s worth the years wait.

[Tanner · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOICE

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

It has been a long time since I read the original Mr. Lemoncello's Library book with my kiddo. While he enjoyed the book, we never picked up any more in the series. I think that had to do with him aging out of the series or getting interested in something else. But it did give me some context going into book two of the graphic novel series. Overall, the novel starts out a bit disjointed and disorienting. For someone who has not read any of the books and lands into the series here, I could see this being highly problematic. I don't know if a reader would get frustrated and just set the book aside, which is a shame because once all the teams arrive, things get a bit less muddled. That's not say that things get unmuddled; there is always a feeling that the books are assuming you have read the novel and thus the graphic novel is just a supplementary format. I find this a very limiting approach in graphic novels. Sure, you get the real fans to buy, but if you want to catch any new readers or expand to readers who aren't bit on novels, I'm not sure this would work. The illustrations are nice and consistent with graphic novels targeting this demographic. The story is definitely fun and the puzzles are woven in in a way that you can almost solve them too.

All in all, a bit disappointing. But it's still a good read if you can get to the arrival of all the teams. That's when the story picks up.

* I received an ARC via NetGalley.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here's what Kirkus had to say in their starred review:

MR. LEMONCELLO'S LIBRARY OLYMPICS
THE GRAPHIC NOVEL
From the Mr. Lemoncello's Library series , Vol. 2
BY CHRIS GRABENSTEIN ; ILLUSTRATED BY DOUGLAS HOLGATE ; COLOR BY MARTA TODESCHINI ‧ RELEASE DATE: OCT. 14, 2025

The dynamic graphic format will draw new fans to this timeless manifesto for library lovers.

A second round of bookish riddles and rebuses leads to a stout battle against the forces of intellectual repression in this graphic remake of the popular series’ second entry.

With teams of avid young readers from around the country descending on eccentric Mr. Lemoncello’s fabulous library to compete for a glittering first prize—a full ride to college—it looks like Kyle Keeley and his three compatriots have their work cut out for them. They must also contend with chicanery from slimy Charles W. Chiltington, his even more reprehensible mother, and a squirrelly new book-burning nemesis. Are they up to the challenge? “On your mark. Get set. Lemoncello—GO!” Holgate’s fluidly drawn assemblages of actively engaged contestants, expertly colored by Todeschini, capture the 2016 novel’s narrative vim while highlighting the young cast’s racial diversity. Though some of the 12 games (like a book cart relay race) are tests of physical agility, most of them lean on mental acuity as well as a working knowledge of the Dewey Decimal System, basic research skills, and wide reading knowledge. The abundant book references have been updated to include worthy titles published since the original’s appearance. A love for libraries and those who value them shines here more brightly than ever, from the very first poser—a rebus with a message that bookworms will delight in—onward.

The dynamic graphic format will draw new fans to this timeless manifesto for library lovers. (Graphic fiction. 9-13)
Pub Date: Oct. 14, 2025
ISBN: 9780593709818
Page Count: 256
Publisher: Random House Graphic
Review Posted Online: June 13, 2025