Find a book
Donate
book cover

The Marvels

by Brian Selznick

Interest age: 10+
Reading age: 10+

Published by Scholastic, 2015

  • Adventure
  • Graphic novels

About this book

The Marvels is one of those rare books that both children and adults will love. It weaves together two seemingly unrelated stories - one in words, the other in pictures. The illustrated story begins in 1766, while the prose story opens in 1990.

The illustrations are captivating and cinematic, and draw the reader into the fascinating history of the Marvel family. Selznick is especially skilled at showing the passage of time and the emotions of characters.

The illustrated story ends quite abruptly and mysteriously, leaving the reader desperate to figure out just what happened to the Marvels and how they are connected to Joseph and his family. Selznick leaves a trail of tantalising clues throughout the prose story - and the reveal is worth the wait.

More than just a mystery, The Marvels is a heart-warming story about growing up, identity, and family: both the ones we're born with and the ones we make for ourselves.

It's also a book for anyone who loves London, the theatre, a good mystery or a wonderful story.

About the author

Brian Selznick grew up in New Jersey and graduated from the Rhode Island School of Art and Design in 1988. He worked for two years after graduation at Eeyore's Books for Children in New York City. His first book was published while he worked there. Brian has also designed theater sets and worked as a professional puppeteer. His first book, The Houdini Box, was inspired by a fascination with the famous magician. He has also illustrated both novels and picture books for other writers. 

In 2008, his groundbreaking book The Invention of Hugo Cabret was awarded the Caldecott Medal. It was nominated for a National Book Award and was the basis for Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning film Hugo. His follow-up illustrated novel, Wonderstruck, debuted at number one on the New York Times bestseller list. The Marvels was published in autumn 2015. Brian divides his time between Brooklyn, New York and San Diego with his husband Dr David Serlin, a professor at the University of California.

More books like this

Explore our Bookfinder
Share this page Twitter Facebook LinkedIn