Wonderstruck

Wonderstruck by Brian Selznik

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Hardcover: 608 pages
Publisher: Scholastic Press; 1 edition (September 13, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0545027896
ISBN-13: 978-0545027892

Summary from Goodreads

Set fifty years apart, two independent stories—Ben's told in words and Rose's in pictures—weave back and forth with mesmerizing symmetry. How they unfold and ultimately intertwine will surprise you, challenge you, and leave you breathless with wonder.

Ever since his mom died, Ben feels lost.
At home with her father, Rose feels alone.

He is searching for someone, but he is not sure who.
She is searching for something, but she is not sure what.

When Ben finds a mysterious clue hidden in his mom's room,
When a tempting opportunity presents itself to Rose

Both children risk everything to find what's missing.

With over 460 pages of original drawings and playing with the form he invented in his trailblazing debut novel, The Invention of Hugo Cabret, Brian Selznick once again sails into uncharted territory and takes readers on an awe-inspiring journey. Rich, complex, affecting and beautiful, Wonderstruck is a stunning achievement from a uniquely gifted artist and visionary.

My Thoughts

This was my first read by this author and I have to say I was very impressed! I saw a copy of this book in my local bookstore and was impressed with the artwork. The artwork had piqued my curiosity.

The book tells two layered stories, one through illustrations and one through words. The illustrated story is the story of Rose, who is enamored with a silent movie star named Lillian Mayhew. The written story is the story of Ben, who is grieving over his mother and wonders who and where his father is. Both Rose and Ben found a special place in my heart right away. You can't help but feel compassion for both characters. Rose and Ben's stories happen 50 years apart from each other and for the longest time I couldn't figure out how they were related. The suspense was building in me. Eventually the two stories come together in a way I never imagined! I found this a unique way to tell a story and I think it is a great way to tell a story to children. I don't want to say any more about the story as I don't want to spoil one moment of this delightful story for any reader. The story is a delectable journey that you will want to savor. I could not put this book down and read it straight through!

The pencil drawings are stunning and remarkable! The written story is creative and the descriptions are wonderfully vivid! Brian Selznick is extremely talented! This is a book you do not want to miss!

This is a wonderful story for all ages. I think kids and adults will enjoy this. The recommended ages are 9 years old and up or 4th grade and up. I have to agree with the recommended ages. There are some subjects that might be too sad or intense for younger children. I suggest you read it and decide if it is okay for your younger children.

I received this book through Amazon Vine for my honest opinion.