The Invention of Hugo Cabret

Selznick, B. (2007). The invention of Hugo Cabret. New York: Scholastic.

This phenomenally illustrated novel is set in 1930’s Paris where a young boy named Hugo lives in a train station. Hugo ensures that all the clocks in the station tell the correct time. He is caught stealing toys from the old man who owns the toy stand in the station and a strange relationship develops between the two. Hugo was stealing the toys for parts to make an automaton that he salvaged from a museum fire where his father perished at work. In the end, Hugo discovers that the “old man” is George Melies, a pioneer in the motion picture industry and the owner of the automaton. Hugo helps George realize that his work was not forgotten and that he is still honored in the film industry. George and his wife, Jean, adopt Hugo giving him a safe home.

This historical fiction novel, would appeal students third grade and older. The black and white ink illustrations in this novel are incredibly detailed and involve 284 pages of the book. The illustrations are as compelling as the story line. The book also includes pictures from the real works of George Melies. Both Hugo and George are “lost” souls who need to find themselves again. Hugo needs a family and George needs to realize his ground breaking work was not forgotten.

2008 Caldecott Award Winner