Selznick, B. (2007). The invention of Hugo Cabret NY: Scholastic.
The Invention of Hugo Cabret takes readers on the journey of a young orphan boy's life. His uncle trained him to keep time at a train station but upon the disappearance of his uncle, Hugo must take care of himself. He is forced to steal from different shops in the train station in an attempt to survive. He soon discovers toys he can utilize to help him with his other job, rebuilding a mechanical machine that writes messages, better known as an automaton. The owner of the toy shop, Papa Georges, finally catches Hugo in the act. Out of anger, Papa Georges retaliates by taking Hugo’s journal right out of his hand! He opens the journal and is surprisingly fascinated by the automaton that Hugo’s father drew before he died. Hugo will do anything it takes to retrieve the only memory he has from his beloved father. The journal is also the delicate “key” to helping him rebuild the automaton. Therefore, Hugo tries to earn the journal back by working at the toy shop, where he befriends Papa Georges’ Goddaughter, Isabelle. Hugo soon realizes Isabelle holds the ultimate key to starting this mechanical machine. The two young friends uncover an ancient mystery and embark on an unspeakable journey, connecting their world's forever.Brian Selznick creatively combines mystery, historical fiction, science fiction and fantasy in one unique read! Some young readers may prematurely judge this book based on the length (about 530 pages), but as the old saying goes “Never judge a book by it’s cover”! When readers open this book they will find it hard to close. The Invention of Hugo Cabret is half text and half illustration, making this book a suitable read for grades 4 and up. The detailed illustrations are a bonus which make readers feel like they are watching a 1930’s film. This title encourages readers to think deeply while exploring multiple themes which include friendship, acceptance, creativity, confronting your past, and coping with grief.
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Tuesday, November 8, 2016
The Invention of Hugo Cabret
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