The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick (533 Pages)

Summary: Orphan, clock keeper, and thief, Hugo lives in the walls of a busy Paris train station, where his survival depends on secrets and anonymity. But when his world suddenly interlocks with an eccentric, bookish girl and a bitter old man who runs a toy booth in the station, Hugo's undercover life, and his most precious secret, are put in jeopardy. A cryptic drawing, a treasured notebook, a stolen key, a mechanical man, and a hidden message from Hugo's dead father form the backbone of this intricate, tender, and spellbinding mystery.

Opinion: This book is the Caldecott medal winner of 2008. It consists of some pages full of writing and the rest of just drawings. I guessed the ending, but I also thought that the ending was so cute. The drawings were sometimes a bit disturbing, especially of the automaton, but they were also so meticulous. Overall, a quick cute read of a young boy and found family. 

The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat

The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat, 40 pages

I could not help but be captivated by the title and the cover of this children's book.  Dan Santat writes and illustrates this Caldecott Medal winning children's book. Adults as well as children will love this book about how an imaginary friend is brought to life.

The story starts out an island where imaginary friends are waiting to be born.  While waiting to be imagined by a real child, Beekle travels to the city to find his match. His journey ends with finding his friend and his name.  This book teaches young children to use there imaginations. There is no limit to the adventures one can dream up.  It is also a wonderful lesson in friendship.