The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

In Paris, 1931, a sensitive twelve year old boy named Hugo lived with his uncle who was a time keeper in the Paris train station, until his uncle becomes lost and later turns up dead. Because he has no family left, Hugo lives by himself doing his uncle’s job so he could have a place to stay. Hugo was very interested with clocks and mechanics and worked on an automaton his father had found years ago. As the complicated story reveals itself along with the events, the reader learns what the automaton draws, where it was found, who created it, and the lives this discovery intertwines. A mysterious toy seller’s life becomes revealed, which later results in the invention of Hugo Cabret.

Intriguing book with images to follow. Pictures tell the story, as well as the text. Book is very suspenseful and keeps reader engaged, despite the many pages. Story has key facts that make sense in the end, so reader has to pay attention to the details. Touching story that brings out empathy and sympathy. Root for the hero throughout the book, even when he has to steal. Pictures show emotion, as well as pictures of movies from long ago. Very insightful, as the characters speak about movies and their creators in the book. Even though text seems complicated, it is an easy read.