The Marvels

"The Marvels" by Brian Selznick is a unique and ambitious middle-grade novel that masterfully combines two distinct narratives: one told entirely through intricate illustrations, and the other through prose. The illustrated story begins in 1766 with Billy Marvel, a shipwreck survivor, and follows five generations of his theatrical family. The prose story, set in 1990, introduces Joseph, a boy who has run away to London and finds himself in his estranged uncle's mysterious house, where he uncovers a hidden history. This 665-page book, reminiscent of Selznick's Caldecott-winning "The Invention of Hugo Cabret," is a rich tapestry of history, mystery, family, and the transformative power of art and storytelling. It's perfect for readers aged 10-14 who appreciate immersive stories and detailed visual narratives.

In The Marvels, Selznick crafts another remarkable artistic and bookmaking achievement that weaves together two seemingly unrelated stories - one in words, the other in pictures - with spellbinding synergy. "The illustrations take you by the hand, and they don't let go"- The Guardian The illustrated story begins in 1766 with Billy Marvel, the lone survivor of a shipwreck, and charts the adventures of his family of actors over five generations. The prose story opens in 1990 and follows Joseph, who has run away from school to an estranged uncle's puzzling house in London, where he, along with the reader, must piece together many mysteries. Filled with mystery, vibrant characters, surprise twists, and heart-rending beauty, and featuring Selznick's most arresting art to date, The Marvelsis a moving tribute to the power of story. A stunning gift to be treasured for a lifetime. Perfect for fans of theatre, history and beautiful pencil artwork Brian's first book, The Invention of Hugo Cabret, was the winner of the esteemed Caldecott Medal, the first novel to do so, as the Caldecott Medal is for picture books & made into a feature length film, HUGO, directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Jude Law