Reviewing: Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics (Mr. Lemoncello’s Library #2) by Chris Grabenstein

Read time: 2 minutes

Book Blurb:

Goodreads Choice Award. Nominee for Readers’ Favorite Middle Grade & Children’s (2016)

In Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics, Kyle Keeley and his friends are back—this time facing off against clever new challengers in the ultimate library showdown! As teams race to solve puzzles and tackle outrageous bookish feats, a darker mystery emerges: books are disappearing, and censorship threatens the magic of the stacks. With riddles to crack, friendships to protect, and the freedom to read on the line, it’s a high-stakes, high-fun adventure that celebrates curiosity, creativity, and doing what’s right.

Let’s talk about the book:

Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics is a puzzle-lover’s dream! Chris Grabenstein delivers a joyful mix of clever puzzles, quick wit, and heartfelt moments, just as enchanting as the first book. In the Library Olympics, Kyle Keeley and his friends take on teams from across the country in a whirlwind of bookish brainteasers, riddles, and scavenger-hunt-style challenges, all masterminded by the ever-eccentric Mr. Lemoncello.

Kyle, Sierra, Akimi, Miguel, and the crew shine as a team, balancing fierce rivalry with kindness and support. Their authentic pre-teen banter, brought vividly to life by Jesse Bernstein’s zippy narration, sparkles. The puzzles are an absolute delight, inviting readers of all ages to think creatively while following the action.

Equal parts fun and meaningful, Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics celebrates curiosity, courage, and the magic of libraries. The joy of friendship and learning keeps you hooked. Jesse Bernstein’s narration brings infectious energy, making the games thrilling, the jokes sharper, and the emotional beats land perfectly. It’s a cozy, clever adventure that warms the soul.

Would I recommend it?

This book is a blast for puzzle fans and anyone who cherishes libraries. Jesse’s narration makes Kyle’s gang feel like old friends. Add this gem to your TBR—it’s a heartwarming, brain-tickling ride!

What do you say?

Did you solve any of the challenges before the characters did? And how do you feel about the way Grabenstein tackled book banning in a middle-grade novel? Let’s chat in the comments!

Check out the book links

Amazon CA
Goodreads
Check out Chris Grabenstein on his author page

Series books in order of reading (Incl. review links):

Mr. Lemoncello’s Very First Game (Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Series #0) – Read full review here
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library (Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Series #1)– Read full review here
Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Olympics (Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Series #2)
Mr. Lemoncello’s Great Library Race (Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Series #3)
Mr. Lemoncello’s All-Star Breakout Game (Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Series #4)
Mr. Lemoncello and the Titanium Ticket (Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Series #5)
Mr. Lemoncello’s Fantabulous Finale (Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Series #6)