Tools for this page
The Invention of Hugo Cabret
-
Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 7, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8. -
Is it any good?
-
Common Sense says
Spectacular book/film hybrid has lots of heart.
updated 07.04.08
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 8 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
-
Violence :
-
Sex :
-
Language:
-
Consumerism:
-
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
About The Invention of Hugo Cabret
Parents need to know that the hero of this story has a sad life. Orphaned, alone, and homeless, he lives by stealing and scavenging, and no one is kind to him until late in the book.
Read our full review by Matt Berman
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about some of the research-based themes the author includes. How can an automaton be made to write poems and draw pictures? How do they work? How were the earliest films made? Many young readers will want to learn more about mechanical machines and automata, and about the history of film, especially the work of Georges Melies. They may also want to see the films referred to in the story.
Want more? Get Common Sense recommendations delivered to your inbox.
You are now subscribed to the Common Sense weekly newsletter!
To write reviews and create a public profile, complete your account set-up here.
Our Members Say
See all 5 member reviews
Most Recent Reviews
Lives in CaliforniaI rate this title on for age 5 and give it- Lives in ColoradoI rate this title on for age 2 and give it
Enjoyed the Experience
We checked out the Audiobook and four copies of the book (one for each member of our family) at the library. The Audiobook has a Bonus DVD which gives interesting info offered by the author. We completely enjoyed the experience and looked forward to our reading time. We don't watch TV so AudioBook and book combo was a real treat. We will not purchase this book but it is a treat.
- Lives in GeorgiaI rate this title on for age 2 and give it
- Lives in New YorkI rate this title on for age 8 and give it
What a great experience!
My 9-yr-old son loved this book. So did I -- I read the whole thing in two sittings. The mix of cinematic and textual storytelling makes for a really dramatic narrative experience. Plus, the story is in part about the birth of cinema; it all works together so neatly. My son is a strong reader, but I can see this appealing to kids who aren't confident readers.
- Lives in CaliforniaI rate this title on for age 2 and give it
A whole new kind of book! Graphic novels move over!
I am familiar with Brian Selznick's illustrations from the Andrew Clements books. But I never expected him to do something like this! Outstanding! One of the best books of the year. This book is like a movie and graphic novel and a whole bunch of other things all in one! Also a highly original plot. Not to be missed.
Give Recommendations, Get Them, Too!
Become a member and get recommendations from other parents based on your child's age.
Already a member? Log in
Our Members Rate It
Have You Read It? 
For Your Family
Get age-based recommendations for your kids:
Customize based on your child's age
