Wonderstruck

Author and Illustrator: Brian Selznick

Publisher: Scholastic

Publication Year: 2011

ISBN-13: 978-0545027892

Wonderstruck tells the stories of Ben and Rose, two children who are deaf and wish their lives were different. Set 50 years apart, the independent stories (one told in words, and one in pictures) weave back and forth. At the end the reader discovers a surprising twist as the stories come together.

Brian Selznick expertly crafted this piece of realistic fiction. If somehow the incredible story in the words doesn't draw the reader in, the illustrations surely will. Throughout the book readers discover connections between the two stories and develop a greater understanding of the content as the stories weave together.

Awards

#1 New York Times Bestseller
New York Times Notable Children's Book
2012 Schneider Family Book Award Winner
ALA Notable Children's Book
Parents' Choice Gold Winner
Publishers Weekly Best Book 

Through reading this book, gifted students can work through issues or learn from experiences of the characters. They can learn about the importance of relationships, self-management, and can even learn to understand themselves a bit better.

In the past, I've used this book as a read aloud. The more I've thought about this book, though, the more I see the potential to discuss the power of stories in words and in pictures. After reading this book, students could also attempt to tell stories in pictures and in words in the style of Brian Selznick.