Reading Order List β€” Book Series Reading Order Guide
Chris Grabenstein

Chris Grabenstein Reading Order

26 series Β· 106 books Β· Born 1955-09-02

Chris Grabenstein is a prolific American author who has written over 100 books spanning multiple genres including science fiction, mystery, and young adult fiction. His career began in 2005 and has since encompassed numerous series for both adult and younger readers, with his work frequently appearing in collaborative projects with bestselling co-author James Patterson. Known for his versatility across picture books, middle-grade novels, and thriller series like the Christopher Miller Holiday Thrillers and Daniel X, Grabenstein has established himself as a consistent voice in contemporary American publishing across 26 distinct series.

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Anthologies Series

Complete

7 books (2007–2020)

Chris Grabenstein edited seven completed anthologies between 2007 and 2020, blending science fiction, mystery, and thriller stories with contributions from various authors. These collections should be read in publication order, beginning with Carols and Crimes and concluding with The Creativity Project. The series spans a range of subgenres and tones, from noir and crime tales to puzzles and screams, offering diverse short fiction for readers seeking varied storytelling within a cohesive editorial vision.

Start with Carols and Crimes, Gifts and Grifters, the first of 7 books in the Anthologies series.

Start this series with Carols and Crimes, Gifts and Grifters

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#Title
1
Cover of Carols and Crimes, Gifts and Grifters
Carols and Crimes, Gifts and Grifters
2
Cover of Death's Excellent Vacation
Death's Excellent Vacation
3
4
5
Cover of Scream and Scream Again!
Scream and Scream Again!
6
Cover of The Creativity Project
The Creativity Project
7
Cover of Super Puzzletastic Mysteries
Super Puzzletastic Mysteries

Children's Series

Likely Complete

4 books (2019–2021)

Chris Grabenstein's Children's series comprises four books published between 2019 and 2021, combining elements of science fiction, mystery, and adventure for young readers. The series should be read in publication order, beginning with Shine!, which Grabenstein co-authored with J.J. Grabenstein, followed by Stuck, Best Nerds Forever (with James Patterson), and Scaredy Cat (also with Patterson). The series appears to be complete as of 2021.

Start with Shine!(With: J.J. Grabenstein), the first of 4 books in the Children's series.

Start this series with Shine!(With: J.J. Grabenstein)

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#Title
1
Shine!(With: J.J. Grabenstein)
2
3
Cover of Best Nerds Forever(With: James Patterson)
Best Nerds Forever(With: James Patterson)
4
Cover of Scaredy Cat(With: James Patterson)
Scaredy Cat(With: James Patterson)

Christopher Miller Holiday Thrillers Series

Complete

2 books (2006–2007)

Chris Grabenstein's Christopher Miller Holiday Thrillers series consists of two completed books published between 2006 and 2007. These mystery thrillers should be read in publication order, beginning with Slay Ride followed by Hell for the Holidays. The compact two-book series offers standalone holiday-themed suspenseful stories set within a consistent narrative framework.

Start with Slay Ride and read in order.

Daniel X Series

Likely Complete

8 books (2007–2022)

The Daniel X series comprises eight science fiction and young adult thrillers published between 2007 and 2022, beginning with The Dangerous Days of Daniel X and concluding with Genesis. Created by James Patterson in collaboration with various co-authors including Michael Ledwidge, Leopoldo Gout, Ned Rust, and Adam Sadler, the series follows a young protagonist navigating alien encounters and supernatural threats. The books should be read in publication order to experience the story's progression across the complete eight-book arc.

Start with The Dangerous Days of Daniel X(By: James Patterson,Michael Ledwidge), the first of 8 books in the Daniel X series.

Start this series with The Dangerous Days of Daniel X(By: James Patterson,Michael Ledwidge)

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#Title
1
Cover of The Dangerous Days of Daniel X(By: James Patterson,Michael Ledwidge)
The Dangerous Days of Daniel X(By: James Patterson,Michael Ledwidge)
2
Cover of Daniel X: Alien Hunter(With: James Patterson,Leopoldo Gout)
Daniel X: Alien Hunter(With: James Patterson,Leopoldo Gout)
3
Cover of Watch the Skies(By: James Patterson,Ned Rust)
Watch the Skies(By: James Patterson,Ned Rust)
4
Cover of Demons and Druids(By: James Patterson,Adam Sadler)
Demons and Druids(By: James Patterson,Adam Sadler)
5
Cover of Game Over(By: James Patterson,Ned Rust)
Game Over(By: James Patterson,Ned Rust)
6
Cover of Armageddon(With: James Patterson)
Armageddon(With: James Patterson)
7
Cover of Lights Out(With: James Patterson)
Lights Out(With: James Patterson)
8
Genesis(By: James Patterson)

Dog Squad Series

Likely Complete

2 books (2021–2022)

Chris Grabenstein's Dog Squad series consists of two science fiction mysteries for young adults, published in 2021 and 2022. The books should be read in publication order, beginning with Dog Squad followed by Cat Crew. The series appears to be complete as no additional installments have been announced.

Start with Dog Squad and read in order.

Haunted Mystery Series

Complete

4 books (2008–2011)

Chris Grabenstein's Haunted Mystery series consists of four complete books published between 2008 and 2011, blending mystery and supernatural elements for young adult readers. The four entriesβ€”The Crossroads, The Hanging Hill, The Smoky Corridor/The Zombie Awakening, and The Black Heart Cryptβ€”should be read in publication order to fully follow the story arc. This finished series provides a complete reading experience without ongoing installments.

Start with The Crossroads, the first of 4 books in the Haunted Mystery series.

#Title
1
2
3
Cover of The Smoky Corridor / The Zombie Awakening
The Smoky Corridor / The Zombie Awakening
4
The Black Heart Crypt

House of Robots Series

Complete

3 books (2014–2017)

Chris Grabenstein's House of Robots series consists of three science fiction mysteries for young adults, published between 2014 and 2017. The complete trilogy should be read in publication order: House of Robots, Robots Go Wild!, and Robot Revolution. Each book builds on the previous installment's events and character development, making sequential reading essential to fully enjoy the series.

Start with House of Robots and read in order.

I Funny Series

Complete

7 books (2012–2018)

The I Funny series consists of seven books published between 2012 and 2018, following a complete story arc that should be read in publication order. Written by Chris Grabenstein, the series includes I Funny, I Even Funnier, I Funny TV, I Totally Funniest, Laugh Out Loud, School of Laughs, and The Nerdiest, Wimpiest, Dorkiest I Funny Ever. This young adult series is designed to be read sequentially from the first book to fully experience the narrative progression.

Start with I Funny, the first of 7 books in the I Funny series.

Jacky Ha-Ha Series

Likely Complete

3 books (2016–2023)

The Jacky Ha-Ha series by Chris Grabenstein consists of three books published between 2016 and 2023, appearing to be complete. This young adult series should be read in publication order, beginning with Jacky Ha-Ha, followed by My Life is a Joke, and concluding with Jacky Ha-Ha Gets the Last Laugh.

Start with Jacky Ha-Ha and read in order.

#Title
1
2
3
Cover of Jacky Ha-Ha Gets the Last Laugh
Jacky Ha-Ha Gets the Last Laugh

John Ceepak Mystery Series

Complete

9 books (2005–2013)

The John Ceepak Mystery series consists of nine completed novels published between 2005 and 2013. This mystery series should be read in publication order, beginning with Tilt-a-Whirl and concluding with Free Fall. Chris Grabenstein's series combines mystery and thriller elements across its nine installments.

Start with Tilt-a-Whirl, the first of 9 books in the John Ceepak Mystery series.

Katt vs. Dogg Series

Likely Complete

2 books (2019–2021)

This two-book series by Chris Grabenstein and James Patterson was published between 2019 and 2021 and appears to be complete. The books should be read in publication order, beginning with Katt vs. Dogg followed by Katt Loves Dogg. Blending science fiction, mystery, and young adult elements, this series offers a fun take on the classic rivalry between cats and dogs.

Start with Katt vs. Dogg(With: James Patterson) and read in order.

Start this series with Katt vs. Dogg(With: James Patterson)

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#Title
1
Cover of Katt vs. Dogg(With: James Patterson)
Katt vs. Dogg(With: James Patterson)
2
Cover of Katt Loves Dogg(With: James Patterson)
Katt Loves Dogg(With: James Patterson)

Max Einstein Series

Likely Complete

4 books (2018–2021)

The Max Einstein series consists of four science fiction mystery novels by Chris Grabenstein, published between 2018 and 2021. These young adult books should be read in publication order, beginning with The Genius Experiment and continuing through Rebels with a Cause, Saves the Future, and World Champions!. The series appears to be complete.

Start with The Genius Experiment, the first of 4 books in the Max Einstein series.

Start this series with The Genius Experiment

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#Title
1
Cover of The Genius Experiment
The Genius Experiment
2
3
4

Mr. Lemoncello's Library Series

Ongoing

8 books (2013–2026)

Chris Grabenstein's Mr. Lemoncello's Library series comprises eight books published between 2013 and 2026, with the sequence still ongoing. The books should be read in publication order, beginning with Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library. This young adult mystery series blends puzzle-solving adventures with imaginative settings centered around a remarkable library and its enigmatic proprietor.

Start with Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library, the first of 8 books in the Mr. Lemoncello's Library series.

Start this series with Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library

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#Title
1
Cover of Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library
2
Cover of Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics
Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics
3
Mr. Lemoncello's Great Library Race
4
Cover of Mr. Lemoncello's All-Star Breakout Game
Mr. Lemoncello's All-Star Breakout Game
5
Cover of Mr. Lemoncello and the Titanium Ticket
Mr. Lemoncello and the Titanium Ticket
6
Cover of Mr. Lemoncello's Very First Game
Mr. Lemoncello's Very First Game
7
Mr. Lemoncello's Fantabulous Finale
8
Mr. Lemoncello's Wondermous Christmas Gift

Mr. Lemoncello's Library Graphic Novels Series

Ongoing

2 books (2023–2025)

Chris Grabenstein's Mr. Lemoncello's Library Graphic Novels series consists of two books published between 2023 and 2025, with more installments planned. Illustrated by Douglas Holgate, these graphic novel adaptations blend mystery and adventure within a fantastical library setting. The series should be read in publication order, beginning with Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library: The Graphic Novel followed by Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics: The Graphic Novel.

Start with Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library: The Graphic Novel(With: Douglas Holgate) and read in order.

Start this series with Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library: The Graphic Novel(With: Douglas Holgate)

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#Title
1
Cover of Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library: The Graphic Novel(With: Douglas Holgate)
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library: The Graphic Novel(With: Douglas Holgate)
2
Cover of Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics: The Graphic Novel(With: Douglas Holgate)
Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics: The Graphic Novel(With: Douglas Holgate)

Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest Series

Ongoing

2 books (2025–2026)

Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest is an ongoing young adult mystery series by Chris Grabenstein with two books published in 2025 and 2026. The series should be read in publication order, beginning with Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest followed by Ms. Pennypickle's Remarkable Road Race. More entries are expected as the series continues.

Start with Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest and read in order.

Start this series with Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest

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#Title
1
Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest
2
Ms. Pennypickle's Remarkable Road Race

Murdle Jr. Series

Ongoing

4 books (2024–2026)

Murdle Jr. is an ongoing mystery series by Chris Grabenstein and G.T. Karber featuring three books published between 2024 and 2025. The series should be read in publication order, beginning with Curious Crimes for Curious Minds. This young adult mystery series blends puzzle-solving with engaging storytelling to challenge readers' detective skills.

Start with Curious Crimes for Curious Minds(By: G.T. Karber) and read in order.

Start this series with Curious Crimes for Curious Minds(By: G.T. Karber)

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#Title
1
Cover of Curious Crimes for Curious Minds(By: G.T. Karber)
Curious Crimes for Curious Minds(By: G.T. Karber)
2
Cover of Ready, Set, Solve!(By: G.T. Karber)
Ready, Set, Solve!(By: G.T. Karber)
3
Sleuths on the Loose(With: G.T. Karber)
4
Summer Fun!(By: G.T. Karber)

Ocean's Eleven Series

Complete

2 books (2012–2013)

Chris Grabenstein's Ocean's Eleven series consists of two young adult mystery-thrillers published between 2012 and 2013. The complete series should be read in publication order, beginning with Riley Mack and the Other Known Troublemakers followed by Riley Mack Stirs Up More Trouble.

Start with Riley Mack and the Other Known Troublemakers and read in order.

Start this series with Riley Mack and the Other Known Troublemakers

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#Title
1
Cover of Riley Mack and the Other Known Troublemakers
Riley Mack and the Other Known Troublemakers
2
Cover of Riley Mack Stirs Up More Trouble
Riley Mack Stirs Up More Trouble

Picture Series

Complete

1 book (2020–2020)

#Title
1

Short Stories/Novellas Series

Complete

2 books (2008–2013)

Chris Grabenstein's short stories and novellas collection spans two complete works published between 2008 and 2013. These science fiction and mystery-themed entries should be read in publication order, beginning with The Christmas Tree Thief followed by Don't Call Me Christina Kringle. The series blends elements of mystery and young adult appeal across its brief span.

Start with The Christmas Tree Thief and read in order.

Start this series with The Christmas Tree Thief

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#Title
1
The Christmas Tree Thief
2
Don't Call Me Christina Kringle

Smartest Kid In The Universe Series

Likely Complete

3 books (2020–2023)

Chris Grabenstein's Smartest Kid in the Universe series spans three books published between 2020 and 2023, following publication order for reading. The trilogy appears to be complete, offering young adult readers a blend of science fiction and mystery elements across The Smartest Kid in the Universe, Genius Camp, and Evil Genius.

Start with The Smartest Kid in the Universe and read in order.

Start this series with The Smartest Kid in the Universe

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#Title
1
Cover of The Smartest Kid in the Universe
The Smartest Kid in the Universe
2
3

Standalone Novels Series

Complete

5 books (2012–2018)

Chris Grabenstein's five standalone novels, published between 2012 and 2018, blend science fiction, mystery, and young adult themes across diverse stories. The series is complete and should be read in publication order beginning with The Explorers' Gate, followed by The Island of Dr. Libris, Laugh Out Loud (cowritten with James Patterson), Pottymouth and Stoopid (also with Patterson), and concluding with Seven Steps to Success. Each book stands alone as an independent story, allowing readers to enjoy them individually or as a collection.

Start with The Explorers' Gate, the first of 5 books in the Standalone Novels series.

Start this series with The Explorers' Gate

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#Title
1
2
Cover of The Island of Dr. Libris
The Island of Dr. Libris
3
Laugh Out Loud(With: James Patterson)
4
Cover of Pottymouth and Stoopid(With: James Patterson)
Pottymouth and Stoopid(With: James Patterson)
5
Cover of Seven Steps to Success
Seven Steps to Success

Standalone Plays Series

Complete

1 book (2010–2010)

#Title
1

Stinky's Stories Series

Ongoing

6 books (2024–2026)

Chris Grabenstein's Stinky's Stories is an ongoing series of six books published between 2024 and 2026, blending science fiction, mystery, and young adult elements. The series consists of Jack and the Beanstink, The Boy Who Cried Underpants!, Moldylocks and The Three Bears, The Three Smelly Goats Gruff, Cindersmella, and Stinking Beauty, each offering a unique take on classic tales. Readers should follow the books in publication order to fully experience the series' evolving narrative.

Start with Jack and the Beanstink, the first of 6 books in the Stinky's Stories series.

Start this series with Jack and the Beanstink

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#Title
1
Cover of Jack and the Beanstink
Jack and the Beanstink
2
Cover of The Boy Who Cried Underpants!
The Boy Who Cried Underpants!
3
Moldylocks and The Three Bears
4
The Three Smelly Goats Gruff
5
6

Treasure Hunters Series

Likely Complete

9 books (2013–2023)

The Treasure Hunters series by Chris Grabenstein comprises nine books published between 2013 and 2023, following publication order. This young adult adventure series appears to be complete, with entries including Treasure Hunters, Danger Down the Nile, Secret of the Forbidden City, Peril at the Top of the World, Quest for the City of Gold, All-American Adventure, The Plunder Down Under, The Ultimate Quest, and The Greatest Treasure Hunt. Readers should begin with the first installment and progress sequentially through each book.

Start with Treasure Hunters, the first of 9 books in the Treasure Hunters series.

Start this series with Treasure Hunters

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#Title
1
2
Danger Down the Nile
3
Cover of Secret of the Forbidden City
Secret of the Forbidden City
4
Cover of Peril at the Top of the World
Peril at the Top of the World
5
Cover of Quest for the City of Gold
Quest for the City of Gold
6
Cover of All-American Adventure
All-American Adventure
7
Cover of The Plunder Down Under
The Plunder Down Under
8
9
The Greatest Treasure Hunt

Welcome to Wonderland Series

Complete

4 books (2016–2019)

Chris Grabenstein's Welcome to Wonderland is a complete four-book young adult series published between 2016 and 2019. The books should be read in publication order, beginning with Home Sweet Motel, followed by Beach Party Surf Monkey, Sandapalooza Shake-Up, and Beach Battle Blowout. This science fiction mystery series blends adventure with puzzle-solving elements that unfold across the interconnected installments.

Start with Home Sweet Motel, the first of 4 books in the Welcome to Wonderland series.

Start this series with Home Sweet Motel

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#Title
1
2
Cover of Beach Party Surf Monkey
Beach Party Surf Monkey
3
Cover of Sandapalooza Shake-Up
Sandapalooza Shake-Up
4
Cover of Beach Battle Blowout
Beach Battle Blowout

Word of Mouse Series

Ongoing

2 books (2016–2025)

Chris Grabenstein's Word of Mouse series comprises two science fiction and mystery-thriller novels aimed at young adult readers. The first book launched in 2016, with the sequel The Great Mouse Escape following in 2025, and the series remains ongoing. Readers should follow the publication order to experience the story as intended, beginning with Word of Mouse before moving to The Great Mouse Escape.

Start with Word of Mouse and read in order.

#Title
1
2
The Great Mouse Escape

Frequently Asked Questions

How many books has Chris Grabenstein written?
Chris Grabenstein has written 106 books across 26 series. Their published works span from 2005 to 2026.
What is the first book in each Chris Grabenstein series?
Here are the first books in Chris Grabenstein's series: Anthologies: Carols and Crimes, Gifts and Grifters; Children's: Shine!(With: J.J. Grabenstein); Christopher Miller Holiday Thrillers: Slay Ride; Daniel X: The Dangerous Days of Daniel X(By: James Patterson,Michael Ledwidge); Dog Squad: Dog Squad.
What order should I read Chris Grabenstein's books?
We recommend reading Chris Grabenstein's series in publication order. Each series can be read independently.
Is Chris Grabenstein still writing new books?
Yes, Chris Grabenstein has 6 ongoing series: Mr. Lemoncello's Library, Mr. Lemoncello's Library Graphic Novels, Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest, Murdle Jr., Stinky's Stories and 1 more.

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