Author Chris Grabenstein is a favorite in my home for his Mr. Lemoncello and The Smartest Kid in the Universe Series so I was excited to check out this Mr. Lemoncello prequel, Mr. Lemocello’s Very First Game. One of my favorite things about Grabenstein’s books is that he is so great about making them fun for kids while also teaching important life lessons and desirable character traits. He does this again in this story and helps readers see the importance of being a good friend, working hard, and not giving up. He also shows that it’s okay to be different and that our differences can be our strengths. Grabenstein also throws mind puzzles into the mix to get one thinking. Additionally, the story also includes a wide variety of characters that helps the story be interesting and relatable to many readers. For an entertaining and uplifting read, try Mr. Lemoncello’s Very First Game.

Favorite quote from the book: “Keep striving to do things for other people. Not because of who they are or what they might do in return. Do it because of who you are!” -Professor Marvelmous

Review of a Digital Advance Reading Copy Provided by Random House Children’s Books

Content Analysis: 

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore: Few (8) brief incidents including verbal threats; reference to accidentally breaking a window and mirror; character giving a friendly punch a little roughly; characters slipping and falling; character throwing a soda can at another. 

Sex/Nudity: None

Mature Themes:

Body humor.

Alcohol and Drug Use:

None