Book Review: The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brain Selznick

Title: The Invention of Hugo Cabret
Author: Brain Selznick
Publication Date: 2007
Genre: Children's Fiction
Age: 9+
Pages: 533
Series: no
Publisher's website: Scholastic
Author's website: Brian Selznick
Book Acquisition: Borrowed Hardcover

*2008 Caldecott Medal Winner*

ORPHAN, CLOCK KEEPER, AND THIEF, Hugo lives in the walls of a busy Paris train station, where his survival depends on secrets and anonymity. But when his world suddenly interlocks with an eccentric, bookish girl and a bitter old man who runs a toy booth in the station, Hugo's undercover life, and his most precious secret, are put in jeopardy. A cryptic drawing, a treasured notebook, a stolen key, a mechanical man, and a hidden message from Hugo's dead father form the backbone of this intricate, tender, and spellbinding mystery.

With more than three hundred pages of original drawings, and combining elements of picture book, graphic novel, and film, Brian Selznick breaks open the novel form to create an entirely new reading experience. Here is a stunning, cinematic tour de force from a boldly innovative storyteller, artist, and bookmaker.

This book is beautiful! It's also huge! But don't let that daunt you. I read it in about an hour. I could not stop turning the pages. Each drawing was more realistic then the last. For that hour, I was transported into Hugo's world. I lived in the train station with him. I found the mechanical man and I discovered his secrets. 
The story itself was wonderful. I feel in love with all the characters.The mystery that Hugo is forced to solve is unique. The entire story is unique and I loved the ending. I found myself wanting to read it again as soon as I was finished.

A picture book like no other. I hightly recommend this book to anyone who needs a quick infusion of beauty into their lives.

5/5 stars

Linkage Love:
About Caldecott Award