Anyone old enough to remember “Little Big Books” will recognize some of the elements in Brian Selznick’s The Invention of Hugo Cabret... His account of the adventures of a twelve-year-old boy hiding out in the cavernous bowels of the Paris railroad station involves both a “motion” picture and narrative approach. By using the thumb of one’s hand, one could permit the pages of one of the little books to move rapidly creating a movie-like series of pictures and, at the same time, relate a story.
Brian Selznick does considerably more in this very unusual and exciting adventure story A large portion of the 300 pages of his work contains full page graphic illustrations which vividly enhance and replace the narrative. A chase scene comes alive before the eyes of the reader through a series of dramatic stills. Emotions of fear and suspense are powerfully conveyed by the drawing and highlighting of the human anatomy, especially the eye. The reader is swept along as Hugo survives one close call after another in his attempt to unravel the secret of an “automaton“ Selznick’s work appeals to both young and old and especially to those who fondly remember seeing their first movie. The idea of creating dreams is timeless, and in the concluding pages of his work the author pays tribute to some of the early pioneer dream makers.
Short Story He looked at her admiringly. She was wearing that cute, freshly ironed white tennis outfit that complemented her trim figure. Her sun-browned legs contrasted nicely with her new white Keds. Her beautiful golden hair was tied back in a tight pony tail. Smiling they headed for the court behind Sally’s house next door. They played volley after volley for a good ten minutes before a sudden surge of energy from Sally. Her lunged forward toward the net brought forth a little farting sound and a spontaneous giggle from Sally. That did it! They both laughed uproariously until tears were rolling down their cheeks. Finally, tired and happy they headed home. From the living room window Aunt Carol and his mother could see them approaching. Aunt Carol said, “Those two will be setting a date before you know it.” His mother laughed and replied, “I can’t believe that Billy is going to be five next week.” TENNIS ANYONE? By George. 11/11/11
He was hoping that he and Sally could get in a little tennis before his mother’s bridge club members arrived. Picking up his racket on the dresser, he was half-way down the stairs when Aunt Carol came in the front door. He greeted her with the obligatory hug and peck on the cheek while edging toward the door. Sally was waiting with her racquet on the sidewalk. He could hear Aunt Carol telling his mother “how tall William was getting” as the door closed.
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Haiku
I can see those Ruskies
And they can see me
Good we have the Bering Sea
~Anonymous
