This book was written and illustrated by Selznick and won the Caledecott medal in 2008, which he so richly deserved. The size of this book may intimidate young readers, but with 284 pictures the large size is more manageable. In this book the pictures actually move the story along as much as the pages with text do, which make this a unique book. There is a lot of action that can be shown through the illustrations, vindicating the saying "A picture is worth a thousand words". Hugo Cabret, a young orphan, is trying to continue his uncle's job as the timekeeper at the train station so he can complete his automaton. He is positive this automaton will give him a message from his dad, although not from his dad, the completion of the picture does change his life forever.
There are many reasons that someone should read this book. The three biggest are the pictures, the story line, and the message. The idea that this boy who has no family and no money still feels that his life has a purpose is inspiring. George Melies, who Hugo becomes involved with after being caught stealing toys to fix his automaton, was an actual person, which invites further study.
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