The Marvels

To be honest, this is the first book I've read by Brian Selznick, so I wasn't very familiar with his work and wasn't going into this book with neither high nor low expectations. I just watched a review about it on YouTube and the way the YouTuber expressed his feelings over it really got me curious enough to check it out.The excerpt, which is the Amazon sample, I only glanced at, but the dialogue between Frankie and Joseph was was drew me in even more.When it arrived (a day early, by the way - thank you, Amazon), I tore the box open and, at first, I just started at the cover/dust jacket for a few minutes. It's a lot prettier than it looks on the picture. Then, after I got over that, I began my adventure through the Marvels.I read everything in less than 12 hours (with constant interruptions, and at one point I had to go out shopping) because I just couldn't have it out of my sight for too long. I just had to know what happened and how everything clicked together.I have to say, the ending blew my mind. As I was reading along, I was coming up with theories as to what was going on, and never did the actual twist come to mind.At the end, I was very devastated. I didn't want the adventure to end, but it did.It was a beautiful adventure, though. It's been such a long time since a book has left me feeling all heartbroken but full of joy all at once.This has become a new favorite for sure.Now, I'm aware of some negative comments this book has been receiving and... I've got some things to say about it.1) The homosexuality is barely even there! It doesn't even focus on it at all.2) As an aspiring author, I find it very rude for people to point out what they think are "flaws" in the story, especially when it's something like this. This is how life is NOW, you can't shelter your children from the knowledge that gay people exist. Stop spreading homophobia; it's not healthy.3) AIDS is indeed mentioned, but it's doesn't even go into detail as to how it's contracted. I was talking about the topic with my fiance, and his little brother (he's eleven) was listening. Even he said, "That's stupid that people are complaining about that being in a book. It's just a disease you die from." Kids aren't stupid, and they SHOULD know what's out there. Plus, they go on the internet. You think they haven't read "AIDS" anywhere else?Ridiculous.All in all, most of these negative comments didn't even make sense to me after I read it all.

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.

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!

We are big fans of Brian Selznick books. Wonderful for younger reader. Brilliant stories and divine illustrations. Do not be put off by the sheer size and thickness of this book. Its is heavily illustrated, which accounts for the thickness. Expensive books v's others, because its also a work of art.My son and daughter devoured these stories, much to the delight of their teachers.A must read with your children

We love Brian Selznick - his art work and story telling beautifully woven together. Great present for a reluctant reader and beautiful present for anyone who appreciates art work and a good story. Do check out Selznick earlier works too - The Invention of Hugo Cabret and Wonderstruck.

Beautifully illustrated book with a fascinating story. As half of the book is images, it seems a fabulous idea for children who may struggle with reading (I have one who doesn't, one who does) as it makes them want to find out more and they feel the achievement of getting through a large portion of the book turning pages. Clever and haunting story.

Waste of money