The Marvels

When i learned that Brian Selznick published another book, I purposefully decided not to learn anything about the book. Swept away by his previous novels The Invention of Hugo Cabret and Wonderstruck (Schneider Family Book Award - Middle School Winner) , I knew that the story would encompass much emotion, realness, tenderness and heart. Alas, I was wrong. The Marvel has all of that, and so much more. The book starts with a series of amazing prints, drawn by Selznick, that tell the story of the Marvels visually. As always with his intimate, perfect drawings, the story unfolds beautifully. With the turn of a page, years fall away, beloved characters live and die, and generations are presented. It is all too tempting to turn the pages quickly through this section. Take your time. Enjoy the artwork, scope out details that later on may be important, pay attention to the eyes. Selznick is a master of drawing the eyes. Soon, the pictures give away to a story about a young boy fleeing from a harsh boarding school in England, trying to find a long lost uncle holed up in out-of-time house in London. Set in the early 90's, Joseph's story is somehow connected to the magnificent pictures you just leafed through ... but how? That is the glorious mystery of this novel. Arriving at the house, his uncle, Albert Nightgale, is strange, distant, and not all willing to help out his forgotten nephew. But he does, because deep down, Albert's heart is there, if somewhat hidden. I so want to talk so much about this book, but fear spoilers would give away the surprises that Selznick has planned. Suffice it to say, the actual story that is hidden in pages unfolds in unpredictable ways, that reveal a tenderness that are reflected in those first pictures of the story. Selznick has written a tale that honors our history and our future, explores the meaning of objects in our lives, and how and to whom we choose to devote our lives. This book is simply a masterpiece. Thank you, Mr. Selznick, for yet another tour de force. We wait so long in between your books, and now I know why. The wait is worth it.

I’ve been fascinated by Denis Sever’s house for many years. I finally got a chance to visit last week, unfortunately it was horribly hot in London and I have disabilities. It forced me to curtail my visit. My host felt my disappointment and generously offered to refund my admissions. I refused because the survival of this magical place is important on so many levels and any small contribution I can make for that purpose is a pleasure. My host then suggested this book... It is as close as you can get to feeling the spirit of the house without visiting. While this is not the story told in the house, it is true to the spirit. The story has much to offer on many levels. You can sit back and enjoy it purely as story, but also a look at how stories are constructed and grow. There many twists and turns, but they resolve themselves in a satisfactory and believable manner. As with any good book (especially children’s book) there are a variety of emotions, but presented in a loving and gentle way. The tension in a book that appeals to adults, as well as children is palpable, but that’s also true in the Harry Potter books especially the later ones. Adults should not fall into the trap of thinking children will read or see this book in the same way. Children see things through their own experiences, which are not those of an adult. The structure of the book may seem odd at first, but the back and forth between the illustrated and text sections set up the narrative well. They are a great signaling device. The narrative offered by the illustrations is easy to understand and worth a second look for the clues they offer. There is a real crisis going on in the house museum sector. Visitation has dropped through the floor and many are struggling for their very exsistence in this digital world. This book and 18 Folgate Square offer a different approach to interpretation. It is a reminder that the story is key, the objects are support. A well told narrative draws the visitor in and makes them want more. The fictional stories in the house and book are certainly engaging, so imagine what happens when the story is true. Read this book and enjoy it. You will either see it or you won’t.

Another great novel from a very imaginative author / gifted artist!! I thought the large section of illustrations at the beginning was unique and different this time around, with a small illustrated part at the end. I am a huge fan of Selznick's novels. His books became an "author focus" in my classroom one year, and I was fortunate to meet him at a speaking engagement at Balboa Park, San Diego. This new novel did not disappoint and I love the connection it had with an actual place and time in history; interesting spot to try to visit someday. His inspiration was best revealed at the end, so it wouldn't be confused with Selznick's own creative storytelling. The story is a bit haunting and sticks with you awhile after you finish the last page; the beautiful drawings setting the mood. The concerned love relationship of the uncle was very subtle and not a focus. An absolutely gorgeous book...again!! Can't wait for the next one!!! Don't stop at a "trilogy"!

wonderful book, great combination of text and drawings

For me, The Marvels was a life changing book , the way I view books, art , and life through another person’s perspective is forever altered Brian Selznick’s The Marvels hits deeper home that we never know one’s journey of life till we read their story all the way through, it was heart wrenching, and beautifully illustrated with characters full of love that live deep within your heart. The story of the Marvels and characters: Joseph, Albert, Frankie & of course Tar now hold the deepest and dearest piece of my heart forever. This is a must read book not only for yourself but also for your children to discover and make their own version of The Marvel’s story for themselves. 5++ Stars highly recommend.

I discovered this wonderful book by accident. I saw it in a school library and commented that a book that long was unlikely to attract many readers. The librarian simply said, "Open it" I was utterly amazed. It is one of the most beautiful picture stories I have ever come across. Yet the best was yet to come as the written part of the story is completely captivating and emotionally engaging. I shut myself away and did not stop reading until I had finished. The revelation at the back of the book has since led, via a gift from the first friend for whom I bought a copy, to a magical visit to 18 Folgate Street. Read the book to find out all about this. If you are disappointed, give your copy to a school library!

I'll be honest, I bought the book mainly because it is gorgeous and I wanted it on my bookshelf. Even thou I bought the book for such petty reasons, I found the two stories inside really nice. The way both stories are tangled togheter by the author was what I loved the most.

Llegó un poco torcido, quizá por el volumen del libro, tan grueso. Las imágenes son extraordinarias. Un caso de estudio muy interesante para estudiantes de diseño.