Twin tales are told here: one belonging to Rose, in 1927’s New York City, which is told in pictures; and one belonging to Ben Wilson, in 1977’s Northern Minnesota, which is told through words. Two children, fifty years apart, whose lives are profoundly linked and are brought together by a bolt of lightning and Ben's quest to find his father. Selznick’s trademark cinematic style, famously employed to brilliant effect before, serves the story even better here, underlining the many powerful themes, among them acceptance, family, love, and friendship. I have frequently listed Hugo as an all-time favorite. I like Wonderstruck more.
-Chad
Simply put, Brian Selznick's newest workis a thing of wonder. Two distinct stories set fifty years apart, one told withbreathtaking textured graphite drawings and another with carefully craftedwords, are masterfully laid over one another so that their lines blur. Theinnumerous settings of the book become characters themselves as the plotnavigates from Gunflint Lake, through the deaf world, and to the great museumsof New York City. Marvel as the places within places and stories withinstories converge, and this affecting work of art will find a home in your owncabinet of wonders.
-Jesse
