Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick

Wonderstruck.  The chance to be struck by the wonder of something.  In the beautiful merging of pictures and words that characterize Brian Selznick's work, two stories are told, intertwining throughout the book.  Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick (Lexile: 830; Reading Level: grades 3-6) is a story of loss, wonder, adventure, misunderstandings, relationships, and seeking for belonging.  Throughout the book, we see Ben (in 1977) yearning to learn the story of his past, and Rose (in 1927) trying to create a story for her future.  Following the two timelines is made easier by the use of two mediums to tell the stories: Ben's story is told in the words, while Rose's is told in pictures.  I was especially fascinated with the minimal words in Rose's story.  Using just pictures for her gave me a stronger feeling about her silent world.  Anyone who takes the time to pick up this book will be well-rewarded for their effort.  The illustrations are vital and sense-inspiring, and the story is thought-provoking and sturdy.  

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