Unexpectedly, I read Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick today. I saw the book at the library, and became fascinated by it... especially after I learned that the author also wrote the book that the movie Hugo was based on (The Invention of Hugo Cabret). I liked the movie, so I figured why not read one of his books. It is perhaps the most interesting book I have read in a long time. There are two stories separated by fifty years that eventually intersect in a peculiar way. The real kicker is that one story is told in just pictures and the other one is told the traditional way... you know, words. I had not intended to read the entire book today, but after I read about 100 pages in pretty much no time, I realized that the 620 pages would be cake to read. I literally just finished it (and I am writing a review already?! I must be ill...) after just about 2 hours of reading. Awesome isn't it? So if you have a couple of hours to spend, I would recommend this easy, but interesting read.
One story is told by Ben, who is desperately trying to search for his father after his mother dies. The other story is shown through the eyes of Rose, who is running away from a unsatisfactory life. Each are from two different parts of the country, but come together in a bizarre, but not completely unexpected, way. I felt myself feeling for the characters and submerging myself into their stories. Because of its conciseness, originality, cohesion, and deep emotional impact, I loved it. This book has actually made me interested in Selznick, so you may be seeing more reviews of his work in the future.
Happy Reading!
