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Wonderstruck summary
Brief summary
Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick is a captivating novel that tells the story of two deaf children, Ben and Rose, fifty years apart. Their parallel journeys lead them to New York City, where their lives intersect in unexpected ways.
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Wonderstruck
Summary of key ideas
Exploring Two Unique Worlds
In Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick, we are introduced to two main characters, Ben and Rose, who live fifty years apart. Ben, a young boy from Minnesota, loses his mother in a tragic accident and is left to live with his aunt and cousins. Feeling lost and alone, he discovers a series of mysterious clues about his father's identity and decides to embark on a journey to New York City to find him.
On the other hand, Rose, a young girl from Hoboken, New Jersey, also feels isolated in her own life. She is deaf and lives with her strict and unsupportive father. To escape her harsh reality, she often sneaks out to watch silent films at the theater. Her biggest source of inspiration is Lillian Mayhew, a famous actress. Rose's story is told entirely through illustrations, reflecting her silent world.
A Journey of Discovery
As Ben and Rose's stories unfold, we are taken on a journey of discovery. Ben's adventure in New York City is fraught with challenges, but he is determined to solve the mystery of his father's identity. Along the way, he meets Jamie, a boy who helps him navigate the city and leads him to the American Museum of Natural History, where he believes his father might be working.
Meanwhile, Rose's story reveals her admiration for Lillian Mayhew and her determination to meet her in person. She runs away to New York City, following clues from the silent movies she watches, and ends up at the same museum. The museum becomes a central point in both their journeys, connecting their lives in unexpected ways.
Unexpected Connections
As Ben and Rose's stories progress, we begin to see the unexpected connections between their lives. Despite living in different eras, they share a deep sense of loneliness and a yearning for connection. It is revealed that Rose is Ben's grandmother, and the museum holds the key to unlocking their family's past.
In a surprising twist, we learn that Ben's father is not who he expected, but rather, a curator at the museum who shares Ben's love for collecting and preserving natural history. Rose's story also comes full circle when she finally meets Lillian Mayhew, who turns out to be her long-lost mother, giving her the sense of belonging she always craved.
A Celebration of Resilience and Hope
In the end, Wonderstruck is a celebration of resilience and hope. Ben and Rose's journeys, though difficult, ultimately lead them to a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. Their stories also emphasize the power of human connection, as they find solace in their shared experiences despite the vast differences in their lives.
Through its unique blend of words and illustrations, Wonderstruck invites us to look at the world with a sense of wonder and curiosity. It reminds us that, despite life's challenges, there is always the possibility of finding unexpected connections and experiencing moments of pure magic.
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What is Wonderstruck about?
Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick tells the story of two children, Ben and Rose, who are both deaf and set out on separate quests to find their place in the world. Through a unique blend of words and illustrations, the book takes readers on a captivating journey that ultimately reveals the connections between Ben and Rose. It is a heartwarming and visually stunning novel that celebrates the power of storytelling and the wonder of discovery.
Wonderstruck Review
Wonderstruck (2011) by Brian Selznick is a captivating tale that intertwines the stories of two deaf children from different eras. Here's why this book is definitely worth a read:
- Through its mesmerizing illustrations and inventive storytelling techniques, the book offers a visually immersive experience that intrigues readers of all ages.
- The parallel narratives of the characters unfold in a way that deepens the emotional connection and keeps readers engaged until the very end.
- With its touching exploration of belonging and the power of human connection, this book transcends boundaries and provides a truly enriching reading experience.
Who should read Wonderstruck?
Readers who enjoy unique storytelling through a combination of words and illustrations
Those interested in exploring themes of identity, family, and connection
People who appreciate visually stunning books that offer a multisensory reading experience
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Wonderstruck FAQs
What is the main message of Wonderstruck?
The main message of Wonderstruck is about the power of connection and discovery.
How long does it take to read Wonderstruck?
Reading Wonderstruck takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in 15 minutes.
Is Wonderstruck a good book? Is it worth reading?
Wonderstruck is a captivating read, weaving together two compelling stories. It's definitely worth a read!
Who is the author of Wonderstruck?
The author of Wonderstruck is Brian Selznick.
What to read after Wonderstruck?
If you're wondering what to read next after Wonderstruck, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Happiness by Richard Layard
- The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Simply Complexity by Neil F. Johnson
- Trust Me, I’m Lying by Ryan Holiday
- The World Without Us by Alan Weisman
- The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz