Chris Grabenstein

author of Mr. Lemoncello's Library, Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest, and more!

Author Chris Grabenstein is a master of imagination and laughter best known for his fast-paced, funny, and adventure-packed stories for young readers. With his signature mix of clever puzzles, humor, and heart, Grabenstein’s stories turn reading into an irresistible game of curiosity and fun. Keep reading to learn more about the incredible books kids everywhere can’t get enough of.

Meet Ms. Pennypickle

Chris Grabenstein’s latest series is a laugh-out-loud middle grade adventure that combines brain-teasing puzzles, cross-country quests, and fast-paced mystery with heartwarming stories about teamwork and family. Guided by the eccentric puzzle master Ms. Pennypickle, young heroes race to solve riddles, outsmart rivals, and discover that the greatest rewards come from working together.

Mr. Lemoncello’s Library

The Mr. Lemoncello books have sold over 2.1 MILLION copies, spent two years on the NYT list, been nominated for 44 state award lists across 40 states, and won 22 state awards! With short chapters, fast pacing, lots of action, conversation-starting themes, and a strong “freedom to read message”, it’s no wonder they are beloved by kids and grown-ups alike.

Mr. Lemoncello's Wondermous Christmas Gift

Mr. Lemoncello's Wondermous Christmas Gift

Chris Grabenstein

COMING OCTOBER 13, 2026!

Get ready for a puzzle-filled Christmas! The New York Times bestselling Lemoncello series gets its first holiday special with this festive foil-covered edition, perfect for stocking stuffers. When an eleven-year-old begrudgingly moves just before Christmas, a surprise invite to Mr. Lemoncello’s holiday party changes everything.

Mr. Lemoncello's Library - Now Available as Graphic Novels!

The New York Times bestselling Mr. Lemoncello series with more than 40 state award nominations and 22 state award wins is now available in puzzle-packed, fun-filled graphic novel format!

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library: The Graphic Novel

Chris Grabenstein; illustrated by Douglas Holgate

Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics: The Graphic Novel

Chris Grabenstein; illustrated by Douglas Holgate

Haunted Mysteries

The Haunted Mysteries series blends spooky supernatural thrills with fast-paced mystery and humor as young Zack Jennings faces ghosts, curses, and other paranormal dangers while uncovering long-buried secrets. Packed with chills, clever twists, and memorable characters, these page-turners are perfect for middle grade readers who enjoy a good scare with plenty of heart.

The Smartest Kid in the Universe

Meet middle schooler Jake McQuade. Jake became the smartest kid in the universe when he accidentally ate a jarful of ingestible knowledge jelly beans. Readers who enjoy the action of the Last Kids on Earth books will love this fast-paced, spy-packed series that’s a “rollicking good time” (New York Times).

More Middle Grade by Chris Grabenstein

Picture Books by Chris Grabenstein

No More Naps!

Chris Grabenstein; illustrated by Leo Espinosa

NO Is All I Know!

Chris Grabenstein; illustrated by Leo Espinosa

Meet Chris Grabenstein

Chris Grabenstein

Chris Grabenstein

Chris Grabenstein is the bestselling author of the Mr. Lemoncello, Smartest Kid in the Universe, Dog Squad, and Welcome to Wonderland series, as well as the coauthor of numerous page-turners with James Patterson and of Shine!, cowritten with Chris’s wife, J.J. Grabenstein.

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