Selznick, Brian. 2007. The invention of Hugo Cabret. New York: Scholastic Press.
Set in 1930 era Paris, this is the story of Hugo Cabret, a young boy living alone in the walls of a train station. We realize early on that Hugo is a survivor and that part of what helps him survive is his obsession with one goal: unlocking the mystery that had been his father's obsession. Hugo and his father shared a love for mechanical things and figuring out how they work. How does an old man in a toy store, a curious young girl and a young man with an eye patch figure into the equation?
The 544 pages of this book seemed a bit daunting at first until you realize that most of the book is illustration; but not the kind of illustrations that you want to (or should) skip over. The exquisitely detailed pencil and watercolor illustrations are an important part of the story. The first 45 pages tell the beginning of the story and then the text of the story picks up where the illustration left off. Even if they weren't part of the story, you wouldn't want to miss them.
This fiction book is based on some fact. History buffs might enjoy doing more research on the life of George Melies, a well known pioneer of the early motion pictures. Selznick includes some early photos of Melies work in his book.
Selznick has created a masterpiece. It was hard to put this book down once you have started it. His research on the mechanical figure (automaton)really added an interesting element to the book. My feeling is that this element is just the hook to get some boys interested in reading this book.
This 2008 Caldecott Winner is recommended for children ages 9-12, although it will be enjoyed by everyone.
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