Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Celebrates Tenth Anniversary with Graphic Novel Adaptation

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library Celebrates Tenth Anniversary with Graphic Novel Adaptation

Award-winning children’s author Chris Grabenstein invites you to celebrate the tenth anniversary of his beloved novel, Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, with a thrilling and action-packed graphic novel adaptation. The #1 New York Times bestselling author, Grabenstein teams up with acclaimed illustrator Douglas Holgate for this full-color adaptation bringing the charm and excitement of the original story to life.

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library: The Graphic Novel invites readers to join Kyle Keeley, a game-loving enthusiast, on a quest to escape from what James Patterson describes as “the coolest library in all the world.” Within the story, Kyle learns that Luigi Lemoncello, the world’s most famous game maker, has designed the new library in town and will host an exclusive lock-in on opening night.

Though the challenge lies not in entering the library, but in finding the way out. As the morning arrives, the doors remain locked, and Kyle and his fellow peers must unravel every clue and solve each secret puzzle to discover the hidden escape route.

Throughout the past decade, Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library has captivated readers of all ages. With its colorful characters, clever puns, and enchanting library filled with imagination, it has become a favorite among kids, parents, teachers, and librarians.

The novel spent over 100 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and was nominated for 44 state awards, solidifying its status as a beloved children’s book. The six books in the Lemoncello series have collectively sold over two million copies. As Grabenstein continues to inspire young readers and writers, he is currently working on a seventh and final book for the series.

Grabenstein shared:

“Kids always tell me I write ‘movies for the mind,’ so it was incredibly enjoyable to transform this story into a graphic novel. This process reminded me of the storyboards I used to create during my time in advertising. I am grateful to have Douglas Holgate joining me on this thrilling ride. His artwork beautifully brings my imaginative world to life.”

“Featuring fast pacing, action-packed sequences, and puzzles for readers to solve, Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library is brimming with excitement and is sure to appeal to both boys and girls,” says Shana Corey, the Editorial Director of Random House Graphic. “Additionally, it’s an excellent choice for librarians and teachers seeking graphic novels that convey positive messages and offer themes for discussion.”

Joining forces with colorist Marta Todeschini, designer and letterer Juliet Goodman, Grabenstein and Holgate are prepared to captivate a new generation of readers. Published by Random House Books for Young Readers, Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library: The Graphic Novel is set to release everywhere books are sold and your favorite local comic shop on November 7, 2023.