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.

It is the end of an era with this Lemoncello series. I have loved these books since the very beginning. We did this book as a one book, one school story as well, and all elementary students loved it. I am now reading through the entire series at bedtime with my two kiddos, what a wonderful series!

What a FANTASTIC way to end this series though I would read more! Introducing new characters while still including everyone’s favorite villain and hero- Charles Chiltington and Kyle Keeley, Grabenstein has made another book I cannot wait to get my hands on and share with my library students!

So thankful that NetGalley gave me an advanced copy of this book. I have already pre-ordered it so that I can have it as soon as it comes out and finish my collection. This book was a fitting finale to the wonderful series of Lemoncello books. My favorite characters were all there. The puzzles I have come to love were available for me to think through. The life lessons and library lessons were in full force. The story arc was completed and, although I'm sad to see it end, I'm happy with the ending. If you are a fan of the Lemoncello series, you will not be disappointed. Farewell, Mr. Lemoncello and Kyle Keeley. It has been an honor to adventure with you.

Although this was the only novel I personally read of the Mr. Lemoncello series, it was wonderful. Grabenstein has created characters and a world I would like to get lost in! This finale brings a nice close to a series, although I wouldn't mind a fast forward to see what the future holds for these characters. A fun, fast read that moves swiftly through the plot.

Thank you Netgalley and Random House Children's for providing me with an e-arc of Mr. Lemoncello's Fantabulous Finale. This series is one I have loved from the start. I am a huge lover of solving puzzles and riddles and this series is full of them. The finale has even more. Seeing this series come full circle in the finale really was the cherry on top of an amazing ice cream sundae. I also love that each book has a lesson to be learned and ultimately the conclusion wraps up all the lessons and gives us one more. As Mr. Lemoncello says, "knowledge not shared remains unknown", we can't make the world a better place if we don't share the knowledge with one another. Thank you Chris Grabenstein for creating a series that truly brings joy, fun, and shows us all what it means to have empathy and work together for together we are better. Oh but don't forget only one person can be Mr. Lemoncello's heir, who will it be? Read it and find out!

My son read this book. He found it to be exciting and funny. It kept him on the edge of his seat. It was reminiscent to Willy Wonka, because there was a competition to find someone to take over his imagination factory when he was no longer able to do so.
He does not feel that the title would stand alone well. There was information from all five books and the prequel that would be spoiled if you read this title first.
We recommend this title for ages ten and up.

Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to preview this title.