I'm not ready for this series to end! I loved the cameos from Grabenstein's other books. This one was a fitting finale, but I'm hopeful we'll see this library and world again.

This was the perfect conclusion to the Lemoncello series, fun, puzzles, with a touch of mystery and plenty of literary references. I do wish we got to spend more time on the challenges like we have in previous installments, but there's just enough room left over that should we come back to this world there's still things to do.

My family has been a fan of the Mr. Lemoncello books for a long time! My children delight in trying to solve the riddles along with the kids in the stories. I was both excited and sad to see there was a final book in the series. While I enjoyed the book, I did not think it measured up to the others in the series and had a hard time keeping some of the new characters straight. That being said- I loved all of the literary references and the riddles throughout the book. The entire book, I kept trying to figure out who the "one winner" would be and who the "bad guy" was. My family and I will definitely miss Mr. Lemoncello, but we loved reading the books and solving each of the riddles along the way.

The author's note at the end was incredibly touching and I am so glad Chris Grabenstein included it!

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

Not my favorite addition to this series. Up until the last quarter of the book, I was bored. The others were full of puzzles and mystery and fun. This felt like a slog through mud until Mr. Lemoncello went missing. Once they all had to work to find him and use their brains to solve the puzzles, I was hooked. But everything leading up to that point seemed like a waste of time. Sorry.

I’m so sad to see this series end. It’s been such a fun wholesome ride. I literally was tearing up when I finished because it’s just a satisfying ending but the overall feeling I get when I think about it is so good.

It amazes me how this author is able to mix things up in this series enough that your not bored with the same concept but still keeping it true to it roots. I love that throughout the book their os an emphasis on the kids still following what they love and excel at, not just winning this particular competition. It definitely has a Willy winka vibe because of the plot. It was really good and I’m gonna miss Kyle and the gang. And the red balloons.

An amazing addition to the Mr. Lemoncello series! My son was THRILLED to have the chance to read it before it publishes and is so sad the series is wrapping up. This book carries the baton through to the finish line in style with all the excitement, fun, and twists we've learned to love. So grateful for a series that has helped my kids expand their knowledge on a wide variety of books and topics while keeping them joyfully engaged.

My son (10) has *loved* this series. It’s a tall order to give such a good series a fitting ending but Chris Grabenstein did just that. My son is a smart cookie and he felt like the challenges in this book were well thought out! This book does a fantastic job of tying ALL of the books into one fitting final adventure. It was entertaining throughout and we both thought the ending was perfect. This is absolutely a favorite series of ours and this conclusion does not disappoint.

Hard to believe that it's been eleven years since the first book in this series came out, especially since Kyle Keeley is only 13! This is a good finish to the series, with all of the puzzles and games of the other six books (Plus a few extra, like the new graphic novel.) I loved that the two main characters from the Wonderland Motel series, P.T. Wilkie and Gloria, show up!

The best part of this was the end notes about Mr. Grabenstein's family, and how his mother immigrated from Greece to Canton, Ohio.

This will be even more popular now that there is a television series. (Okay, was. In 2017. I don't keep up with television, even if it's based on books!)

What a delightful conclusion to the Lemoncello series! This final installment is a testament to Grabenstein's imaginative storytelling and knack for creating a world where puzzles, games, and books intertwine seamlessly.

The story starts with Mr. Lemoncello announcing his ultimate challenge, promising an adventure better than ever before. As expected, Kyle Keeley and his friends are eager to dive into this new quest, bringing their unique skills and boundless enthusiasm to the table. Grabenstein masterfully balances the blend of humor, suspense, and heartwarming moments, making the narrative engaging for readers of all ages.

One of the standout aspects of this book is its celebration of literature and learning. Grabenstein cleverly incorporates references to classic and contemporary works, encouraging young readers to explore beyond the pages of the story. The puzzles and challenges are as inventive as ever, pushing the characters to think creatively and work together—a valuable lesson subtly woven into the plot.

"Mr. Lemoncello's Fantabulous Finale" is a fitting end to a series that has captivated the imaginations of young readers. It is a celebration of curiosity, friendship, and the joy of discovery. Chris Grabenstein has crafted a memorable finale that will leave fans of the series both satisfied and a bit wistful as they turn the last page. If you're looking for a book that entertains while encouraging a love for books and problem-solving, this finale is an absolute must-read.

This book was a really fun finale to the series. The characters were great and it was really fun to see how they reacted to all the situations and games they were in. I really appreciated who the big winner was in the end and very much agree!

Thank you, NetGalley and Random House Children's | Random House Books for Young Readers books for this ARC. I have read all the Mr. Lemoncello books and have loved all of them. This one does not disappoint! Mr. Lemoncello is looking to retire and so of course, he must bring back all the kids one last time for a big game to see who will win the chance to take over his entire game making empire. There are the same library guessing games and attempts to sabotage as the previous books, but it doesn't take away from the charm. Can Kyle Keeley do it again and win the final game to save Mr. Lemoncello's empire and a chance to run it himself some day??

What worked:
The story is reminiscent of Willy Wonka as thirteen-year-olds from around the country vie for titanium tickets to take over Mr. Lemoncello’s empire. One family has been banned from entering the contest due to past nefarious actions but they’ve found a way around the rules. This adds a bit of mystery to the main plot of characters trying to win the competition. The characters receive packages from an anonymous person which will make readers further wonder exactly what is going on. The characters will face challenges all around New York City but readers may be surprised when some of the kids give up their opportunities before reaching the finish. Kyle is the main character although some chapters feature the other contestants. There are many references to past children’s novels and authors that most middle-grade readers will recognize.
The flamboyance of Mr. Lemoncello will amaze young readers as much as it astounds the characters. It’s hard to imagine how the author might add any additional extravagant, outlandish details to the story. Lemoncello’s bright, flashy clothing is designed by Kyle’s grandmother and the man loves riddles, puzzles, and surprises. Readers should expect challenges at unexpected times since Mr. Lemoncello and his assistants are constantly watching everything the kids do. Kyle especially enjoys thinking games so he's happy when the contestants encounter rebus puzzles or when they’re given riddles to complete a scavenger hunt. However, the author saves twists for later in the plot which will make readers second guess what they think they know.
Kyle already knows half of his competitors but there are an equal number of new faces. Most of the kids have relevant qualifications but Mr. Lemoncello still has his people randomly choose one contestant. Each child is motivated by something different which causes readers to speculate about what they might do if they win the competition. Their interests include games, puzzles, building things, books and libraries, making money, and producing a popular podcast. The variety of personalities not only creates some awkward clashes but some unexpected positive relationships too.
What didn’t work as well:
Mr. Leomoncello’s wackiness may not appeal to everyone but humor is usually universally pleasing. The characters are interesting but any depth to them is dependent on having read the previous books. There are a lot of kids vying to win the contest so it’s impossible to fully develop them all without significantly lengthening the book.
The final verdict:
The thing to remember is once you think you know what’s going on you must realize you don’t. Mr. Lemoncello loves puzzles and games and that’s what continues throughout the book. The author creates a fantabulous, zany adventure and I recommend you give it a shot!

A fitting end to the Lemoncello franchise. While not my favorite of the series, I believe fans will be satisfied with this wrap up and will enjoy the cameos throughout. So long, Mr. Lemoncello! Thanks for the fun, games, and life lessons you’ve given us all these years!

This is such a fun read. It has humor, suspense and so much love of children’s literature packed inside. Who will be Mr. Lemoncello’s heir? Could it be super-gamer Kyle? Maybe newcomer Teddy? Well it definitely won’t be cheater extraordinaire Charles because he has been banned from the competition. Can he find a way to weasel himself in anyway? A terrific addition to the series. Let’s hope this isn’t the last we see of Luigi Lemoncello!

I have yet to meet a book in this marvelous series that I didn't like! The only thing to dislike is the word "Finale" in the title. Is it really the last one? I sincerely hope not!!!

I always enjoy revisiting the Lemoncello universe. This final book stays true to the themes of the other books in the series. Still not as good as the first one, but lovers of the series will enjoy this one as well.

In his final contest, Mr. Lemoncello is looking for a worthy heir to his entire Lemoncello enterprise, and Kyle is once again determined to be the winner. Will his titanium ticket win him the ability to own and run the Lemoncello empire? Read and find out!

As always, with Mr. Lemoncello;s Fantabulous Finale, Chris Grabenstein has concocted another story that includes puzzles, friendship and competition. With the possibility of owning the entire empire, Kyle Keeley and 12 other 13 year olds embark on another adventure in Lemoncello land. I hope these books are as much fun to write as they are to read. Any child (and adult) with an imagination will be enthralled reading the series.

Sigh. A fantabulous conclusion to this story arc in the Lemoncello universe. (Author notes hint at more books to come set in this world). Twisty plots, puzzles and books galore, favorite characters plus new people to love... This book has the whole package. Also, don't miss Chris's note about the inspiration for this series- his family. Very cool.

Thank you to @NetGalley and @RHCBEducators! for the ARC. I have been a fan of Chris Grabenstein and the Mr. Lemoncello series since the first book. I loved this ending to the series. This felt as if everything has come full circle, I got my closure. Well done Mr. Grabenstein.

I received an electronic ARC from Random House Children's Publishing through NetGalley.
A fabulous finish to this series. Readers see the characters who have been introduced in previous books along with characters from Grabenstein's other series. All of them come together for one final puzzle challenge to determine who will be Mr. Lemoncello's heir. Each character continues to reveal more about themselves as they work together and on their own to play the games and figure out the final puzzle. Though knowing there will only be one winner, they opt to work together to bring the game to a successful close.
Grabenstein grabs readers' attention and continues to challenge them to solve the games along with the characters. He even includes a hidden one shared at the end. This series captures the pure joy of games and also offers a look at more serious topics such as bullying. I'm sorry this series has ended and hope to see spin 0ff series.