The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  1. Bibliography
Selznick, Brian. The Invention of Hugo Cabret. Scholastic, 2007. ISBN 1407103482

  1. Plot Summary
Hugo Cabret is a precocious 12 year old that suddenly finds himself alone in the world. He is
an orphan living in Paris in the 1930s. The only thing his father leaves behind is a broken
automatron that Hugo feels if he can fix, it will somehow bring him closer to his father. Along
his journey Hugo encounters many people that are sometimes willing and other times unwilling
to assist in Hugo’s quest to find a semblance of belonging. With the help of Isabelle, Hugo finds
what he is looking for and so much more.


  1. Critical Analysis
This is a heart wrenching story where one can’t help but feel for Hugo. The pictures scattered
throughout help involve the reader in the story. It makes one feel as though they are an omniscient
outsider looking at the action as it unfolds. This is a story for readers of any age. I learned about
heartache, forgiveness, and the French illusionist and film director, Georges Méliès.
  1. Review Excerpts
Caldecott Medal Winner, 2008
Indies Choice Book Award for Children’s Literature, 2008
Quill Award for Children’s Chapter Book, 2007
USA Today Bestseller
Publishers Weekly Best Book, 2007
  1. Connections

  • After reading this short novel, follow it up with the 2011 movie, Hugo.
  • This book could be used in a science unit to discuss inventions.
  • Try having students free write on what type of invention they would create if given the same tools that Hugo had.

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