The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

Plot Summary:

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick picture book mixed in with a graphic novel producing a masterpiece. The details alone in each picture can create a story on its own. Although this book contains very little to no dialogue, every time I viewed the graphics in the book, the story changed, making this an outstanding book. The story is about an orphan boy who helps his uncle tend to the clocks at the station. Hugo loves to go behind the wall repairing the clocks. He see the world pass by and is intrigued by the toyshop keeper and a girl that is with the toy keeper. He soon finds out that her name is Isabelle, and she is the goddaughter of the toyshop keeper. While looking in the attic, he discovers an automaton that was left by his father before he died in the fire. He also discovers his father’s notes on how to repair the machine. The toyshop keeper catches him stealing and he now has to pay for this theft by working at the shop. There he discovers that his father and the toy keeper had a connection. The toy keeper inquires about the notebook and takes it away from Hugo. Isabelle helps Hugo get it back. This would definitely appeal to all.

Impression about the book:

This book contains rich sensory illustrations. The intricate details of each illustration come to life in the black and white pictures. The soft gray tones complete the graphic novel.

Reviews / Reviews Excerpts:

This is great recommendation for students who are apprehensive to read “thick” books. The storyline is so involving that the reader forgets there is reading involved.

Suggestions for library use:

A Librarian can show one spread of the pages to promote the genre of graphic novels.