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The Houdini Box
Victor is forever trying to escape from locked trunks, walk through walls, and perform any number of Houdini's astonishing magic tricks...without success. Then -- amazingly -- he actually meets his idol, and begs Houdini to explain himself. A mysterious locked box is the magician's only answer, and Victor is left to wonder: Does the box contain the secrets to the most famous magic tricks ever performed?
64 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1991
11 people are currently reading
1783 people want to read
About the author
Brian Selznick
69 books4,140 followersHello there. My name is Brian Selznick and I’m the author and illustrator of The Invention of Hugo Cabret. I was born in 1966 in New Jersey. I have a sister who is a teacher, a brother who is a brain surgeon, and five nephews and one niece. I studied at The Rhode Island School of Design and after I graduated from college I worked at Eeyore’s Books for Children in New York City. I learned all about children’s books from my boss Steve Geck who is now an editor of children’s books at Greenwillow. While I was at Eeyore’s I also painted the windows for holidays and book events.
My first book, The Houdini Box, which I both wrote and illustrated, was published in 1991 while I was still working at the bookstore. Since then, I have illustrated many books for children, including Frindle by Andrew Clements, The Doll People by Ann Martin and Laura Godwin, Amelia and Eleanor Go for a Ride by Pam Muñoz Ryan and The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins by Barbara Kerley, which received a 2001 Caldecott Honor.
I have also written a few other books myself, including The Boy of a Thousand Faces, but The Invention of Hugo Cabret is by far the longest and most involved book I’ve ever worked on.
I live in Brooklyn, New York, and San Diego, California.
My first book, The Houdini Box, which I both wrote and illustrated, was published in 1991 while I was still working at the bookstore. Since then, I have illustrated many books for children, including Frindle by Andrew Clements, The Doll People by Ann Martin and Laura Godwin, Amelia and Eleanor Go for a Ride by Pam Muñoz Ryan and The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins by Barbara Kerley, which received a 2001 Caldecott Honor.
I have also written a few other books myself, including The Boy of a Thousand Faces, but The Invention of Hugo Cabret is by far the longest and most involved book I’ve ever worked on.
I live in Brooklyn, New York, and San Diego, California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 257 reviews
July 12, 2009
Walking home after a nice meal of sushi, I found this laying on the ground in front of the Salvation Army. I feel like I may have stolen it, but then I had a feeling it would have been taken by someone, gotten ripped up or destroyed in some similar way if I had left it there till the Salvation Army opens tomorrow. So, free books are nice, and this book was pretty nice too, so everything worked out.
A book about Houdini, kind of a biography, kind of not. The book's moral I think, is don't be a stupid douche. Kind of a good moral that people should follow.
A book about Houdini, kind of a biography, kind of not. The book's moral I think, is don't be a stupid douche. Kind of a good moral that people should follow.
October 5, 2023
Wow! This was a fantastic picture book. I love books that have sort of full circle moments. There was a bit of an eerie feeling with this one, though it's far from a terrifying book. Loved it!
October 8, 2017
The mystery of Houdini is the subject here. A boy named Victor wants to be just like him. The art is amazing, the story is good. I think this will help kids get interested in Houdini. He was a master of PR if nothing else. I do wish this story was more fleshed out. It could have been a longer more involved book. Still, children will enjoy this.
June 1, 2011
I can't imagine not being fascinated by the magic and greatness of Houdini, but I do hold a particular bit of bias: the claim-to-fame of my hometown Queens neighborhood is that Houdini is buried there. Whenever I see this fact in print, I admit that a small shock of pride goes through me. Picture my thrill, then, when I discovered that Selznick not only includes mention of my town in a photocopied newspaper clipping in the back pages, but SETS his simple, heartwarming, magical, story there and captures the magician's famous grave in his masterful sketches! It's a simple yet moving tribute. How could I give it less than five?
July 16, 2016
Charming. Review to follow.
September 7, 2010
I love pretty much anything Selznick does and this book did not fail to impress me. However, I find myself at a loss as to how to review it. I was touched by the story, yet a little frustrated, too. I don't think this has anything to do with Selznick as a storyteller or artist--I think it's just because I haven't figured out what "lesson" I want to take away from the book. And I found the author's note at the end was heartbreaking!
For a much better review than I can manage, please see my friend Chandra's stellar review here:
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
For a much better review than I can manage, please see my friend Chandra's stellar review here:
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
May 18, 2015
Selznick's artwork, as always, is breathtaking. The story could use a little help, however. It is a simple tale that could have become memorable had he included the real-life story about Houdini's box, adding mystery and excitement. It was still fun to look at the drawings, though.
February 26, 2016
Amazing illustrated piece by Brian Selznick and a wonderful biography-fiction piece. A boy who loves magic tricks tries to unlock the secret to Houdini's Box. It has a nice story inspired by the magician and it devotes a small biography about Houdindi the last few pages. I recommend this to young students doing biography reports. You can pick this material up at the Colona Public Library. ~Ashley
If you like illustrated historical fiction I would recommend Matt Phelan to read next!
If you like illustrated historical fiction I would recommend Matt Phelan to read next!
June 21, 2016
Uma história MUIIIIIITO bonita, vale bem a pena. Foi meia horinha plena de prazer. :-)
Want to read
January 14, 2008oh my fucking god! i must have this book! i am breathless.
May 31, 2016
Not as good as the other ones... but great read :) Recommend it!
April 26, 2021
Delightful - very touching and love the ending!
June 7, 2017
No matter how old you get, there are few books /stories which have touched our childhood lives and we wish to read them again or re-live those moments again.
For me, children’s books are one of the best ways to escape the real world and indulge myself in amazing fantasies. (:
If you all see my blog or the reading list, I have read quite a few books written and illustrated by Brian Selznick and I must say he has made it to my favorite author list! 🙂
The Whole idea for “The Houdini Box” came to brian when he was doing this his studies at the art college & I am so amazed with the way he adds various elements, characters and turns the offbeat story into a beautiful and a magical one.
Houdini in real is one of the famous magician during 80’s . Name any magic tricks and you would find Houdini successfully pulling that off in one go. He was very famous among the children’s specially, and Victor was one of them who was a true and a crazy fan of the eloquent magician – “Houdini”
Victor never spent his day like a normal child, you would either find him locking himself in a trunk, or trying to breathe under a water ..or just say trying to walk on the wall . He tried so hard everyday to pull off one of the magnificent magic tricks performed by houdini. However , he failed miserably but this was not an end for Victor.
Then one fine day Victor’s mom decides to take victor to his Aunt Harriet for summer vacation, with a hope that he would finally give up performing any magic tricks and at that moment he meets his favorite magician – Houdini, and everything changes for Victor thereafter.
I would give this book a 5/5 because you guys can pick this up anytime to get out of reading slump as it is light and quick read.
I wish to read more of Brian Selznick’s book and I have them all in my TBR.
Until then,
Happy Reading Folks!
For me, children’s books are one of the best ways to escape the real world and indulge myself in amazing fantasies. (:
If you all see my blog or the reading list, I have read quite a few books written and illustrated by Brian Selznick and I must say he has made it to my favorite author list! 🙂
The Whole idea for “The Houdini Box” came to brian when he was doing this his studies at the art college & I am so amazed with the way he adds various elements, characters and turns the offbeat story into a beautiful and a magical one.
Houdini in real is one of the famous magician during 80’s . Name any magic tricks and you would find Houdini successfully pulling that off in one go. He was very famous among the children’s specially, and Victor was one of them who was a true and a crazy fan of the eloquent magician – “Houdini”
Victor never spent his day like a normal child, you would either find him locking himself in a trunk, or trying to breathe under a water ..or just say trying to walk on the wall . He tried so hard everyday to pull off one of the magnificent magic tricks performed by houdini. However , he failed miserably but this was not an end for Victor.
Then one fine day Victor’s mom decides to take victor to his Aunt Harriet for summer vacation, with a hope that he would finally give up performing any magic tricks and at that moment he meets his favorite magician – Houdini, and everything changes for Victor thereafter.
I would give this book a 5/5 because you guys can pick this up anytime to get out of reading slump as it is light and quick read.
I wish to read more of Brian Selznick’s book and I have them all in my TBR.
Until then,
Happy Reading Folks!
January 16, 2014
Impressed with Selznick's illustrations in The Invention of Hugo Cabret, The Doll People, Meanest Doll in the World, The Runaway Dolls and Wonderstruk, when I saw The Houdini Box on the library shelf, I spent a pleasant time relaxing in a quiet corner of the library, reading The Houdini Box.
As mentioned previously, I cannot draw a straight line, even with a ruler! Thus, I am very impressed with the artistry and beauty that flows from the imagination and lands on paper.
In this wonderfully illustrated book, a young man becomes obsessed with Houdini's magic. Locking himself in trunks in the hope of escape, nets him the rescue of his mother time and time again.
Longing to know the secrets of Houdini, he tries to hold his breath underwater in the bath tub, only to be pulled up by his mother.
To take his mind off Houdini, his mother takes him on a trip to see an Aunt. While at his Aunt's house, the same antics abound and at the end of the visit, the Aunt is most happy to see him leave.
While traveling to his Aunt's house, at the train station, he sees Houdini. Running toward him he has just enough time to let him know that he wants to be just like him. He gives his address to Houdini.
Arriving at Houdini's house, he is informed of Houdini's death by his grieving widow. Presenting him with a box, the young boy travels home. Because the initials on the box are different, the boy hides the box.
Later, when an adult with a son of his own, he rediscovers the box and learns that the initials of E. W. were Houdini's real name -- Erik Weisz.
Whalah! The young man, now an adult, happily discovers the secrets to some of Houdini's magic.
As mentioned previously, I cannot draw a straight line, even with a ruler! Thus, I am very impressed with the artistry and beauty that flows from the imagination and lands on paper.
In this wonderfully illustrated book, a young man becomes obsessed with Houdini's magic. Locking himself in trunks in the hope of escape, nets him the rescue of his mother time and time again.
Longing to know the secrets of Houdini, he tries to hold his breath underwater in the bath tub, only to be pulled up by his mother.
To take his mind off Houdini, his mother takes him on a trip to see an Aunt. While at his Aunt's house, the same antics abound and at the end of the visit, the Aunt is most happy to see him leave.
While traveling to his Aunt's house, at the train station, he sees Houdini. Running toward him he has just enough time to let him know that he wants to be just like him. He gives his address to Houdini.
Arriving at Houdini's house, he is informed of Houdini's death by his grieving widow. Presenting him with a box, the young boy travels home. Because the initials on the box are different, the boy hides the box.
Later, when an adult with a son of his own, he rediscovers the box and learns that the initials of E. W. were Houdini's real name -- Erik Weisz.
Whalah! The young man, now an adult, happily discovers the secrets to some of Houdini's magic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2011
This is a really good story, and very obviously a precursor to what Selznick would do with The Invention of Hugo Cabret about a decade and a half later. It's a short book (took me no more than 20 minutes to read), and one that I would love to see him return to and extend now that he's gotten a couple of really massive graphic/written hybrid novels under his belt. The story is fine in its current form, but I really feel like there's a novel buried in there, one that could be every bit as riveting and suspenseful as Hugo Cabret. But even if he never returns to the Houdini story, it's good, better than The Boy of a Thousand Faces (which I liked a lot, but isn't on par with this one), of greater interest to me than was Wonder Struck (if only because it's so much more similar to Hugo Cabret, which I dearly loved), and totally worth the half hour (tops) you'll invest in reading it (though you may invest considerably more in staring, wonder struck, at the amazing illustrations that accompany the pages!)...
January 31, 2010
Texas Bluebonnet Award: The Houdini Box
This is a delightful little book that Selznick “experimented” with before The Invention of Hugo Cabret. I liked it as a good choice for my 6th graders that read at a 3rd/4th grade level, who might be afraid of the size of HUGO, but who would enjoy the same creative approach. In fact, they might like it so much that they may enjoy moving on to HUGO.
It also gives you an opportunity to see Brian Selznick‘s talent develop. Please note that this is an award winning book; The Texas Bluebonnet Award that is given by the Texas Librarians Association…pretty cool!
This is a delightful little book that Selznick “experimented” with before The Invention of Hugo Cabret. I liked it as a good choice for my 6th graders that read at a 3rd/4th grade level, who might be afraid of the size of HUGO, but who would enjoy the same creative approach. In fact, they might like it so much that they may enjoy moving on to HUGO.
It also gives you an opportunity to see Brian Selznick‘s talent develop. Please note that this is an award winning book; The Texas Bluebonnet Award that is given by the Texas Librarians Association…pretty cool!
June 24, 2009
I read this to see if I felt any better about it than Hugo Caberet.
It was slightly better, at least the story was then the last 3/4 of the book were basic TMI.
It was slightly better, at least the story was then the last 3/4 of the book were basic TMI.
March 3, 2012
I love this book!!!!!!!!
April 18, 2018
Short, sweet, and purely magical!
February 15, 2020
I am on the fence with this one. Having read some of Selznick's longer books and thoroughly enjoyed them, I was hoping to find more, but this one just didn't resonate with me as much as Hugo Cabret or Wonderstruck. I also kind of wish Selznick had chosen a different image of Houdini for the cover. While the one he chose does capture the intensity I imagine Houdini had, it is just plain disturbing to have staring out at me. (I know, I know--goofy on my part, but it is, after all, my opinion.) I may revisit this review after sharing it with some classes. I think this could be a good intro to Selznick and/or lead-in to biography or research AND one that I can actually share within my 30-35 minute class time.
June 15, 2022
Brian Selznick ganhou reconhecimento internacional com a obra "The invention of Hugo Cabret" por juntar texto e ilustração de forma magnífica.
Nesta pequena obra somos simultaneamente levados a rir e a comover-nos com este pequeno menino que só queria conseguir ser um incrível mágico como Houdini.
É incrível como este autor consegue dizer tanto com tão poucas palavras. Uma obra que recomendo a todos os leitores que já conhecem ou que queiram mergulhar pela primeira vez no mundo deste autor ímpar.
Nesta pequena obra somos simultaneamente levados a rir e a comover-nos com este pequeno menino que só queria conseguir ser um incrível mágico como Houdini.
É incrível como este autor consegue dizer tanto com tão poucas palavras. Uma obra que recomendo a todos os leitores que já conhecem ou que queiram mergulhar pela primeira vez no mundo deste autor ímpar.
May 8, 2025
A simple story about a young boy who is able to meet his hero and it is told with beautiful illustrations. It reminds me of being a kid and having that one hero you would like to meet so you can be just like them. I would recommend this book to 4th and 5th graders and anyone who still has an interest in magic.
January 30, 2024
This book only takes about 10-15 mins to read but wow what an impact. I found out that Brian has been trying to develop the story into a movie script and I hope he succeeds because I have loved Houdini since I was a kid. Like all Brian’s books, he includes his beautiful art with a beautiful heartfelt mystery. It’s a must read.
January 13, 2018
These early books are a really good segue into the longer pieces ahead. Again, Aniyah read this with a lot of enthusiasm and gave the story highest marks.
September 3, 2015
This is, believe it or not, the first book I've read written by Brian Selznick. This is surprising since it's September and I've been trying to read his complete works all year long. Mostly, I've been reading books he's illustrated. That said, Selzinck did illustrate this book as well. And, as always, it's gorgeous.
This book tells the story of a young boy who is obsessed with the magic of Harry Houdini. He lives during Houdini's lifetime and finds himself constantly getting locked in boxes and rooms and tied up all crazy in an attempt to recreate these magnificent tricks.
What I love about this book is the magic. Both the literal magic of Houdini, and the magic of childhood and imagination. While the story is interesting it is still some biographical fiction, which, I will admit, I was not prepared for. I learned a bit of Houdini I didn't know before. That was enjoyable.
All in all, a cute book. Obviously a precursor to The Invention of Hugo Cabret. I can't wait for that one. ;)
Recommended to those interested in Houdini, who believe in magic, and like uplifting endings.
This book tells the story of a young boy who is obsessed with the magic of Harry Houdini. He lives during Houdini's lifetime and finds himself constantly getting locked in boxes and rooms and tied up all crazy in an attempt to recreate these magnificent tricks.
What I love about this book is the magic. Both the literal magic of Houdini, and the magic of childhood and imagination. While the story is interesting it is still some biographical fiction, which, I will admit, I was not prepared for. I learned a bit of Houdini I didn't know before. That was enjoyable.
All in all, a cute book. Obviously a precursor to The Invention of Hugo Cabret. I can't wait for that one. ;)
Recommended to those interested in Houdini, who believe in magic, and like uplifting endings.
January 31, 2013
By the author of The Invention of Hugo Cabret, a 50ish page picture book for older children.
(Written in 1991, "Hugo" was first published 2007).
In Selznick's trademark style he takes the story of Harry Houdini and bends it around the made up Victor. Combining intelligent, beautiful pencil drawings with a compelling text, "The Houdini Box" was a definite winner in our house. Laugh out loud funny as Victor tries to emulate Houdini's marvellous tricks. But also an interesting dialogue on hopes and dreams, wonder and magic.
Easily accessible to both early (pre-school) readers, and older primary children who will appreciate the film-like imagery and historical blending of The Great Houdini. A memorable story and a re-reader.
Other Information
- The book includes short biography of Houdini.
- 1993 winner of Texas Bluebonnet Award.
- Has been turned into a play; Selznick discusses it here.
Age (taking into account comprehension, concentration, language):
Read aloud - 3+
Read yourself - 8+
(Written in 1991, "Hugo" was first published 2007).
In Selznick's trademark style he takes the story of Harry Houdini and bends it around the made up Victor. Combining intelligent, beautiful pencil drawings with a compelling text, "The Houdini Box" was a definite winner in our house. Laugh out loud funny as Victor tries to emulate Houdini's marvellous tricks. But also an interesting dialogue on hopes and dreams, wonder and magic.
Easily accessible to both early (pre-school) readers, and older primary children who will appreciate the film-like imagery and historical blending of The Great Houdini. A memorable story and a re-reader.
Other Information
- The book includes short biography of Houdini.
- 1993 winner of Texas Bluebonnet Award.
- Has been turned into a play; Selznick discusses it here.
Age (taking into account comprehension, concentration, language):
Read aloud - 3+
Read yourself - 8+
January 7, 2012
Loved this book!! I mean - love the stuff that Brian Selznick does anyways ...... he's genius! (Reminds me of the whimsy of Maurice Sendak, but more fleshed out). But the story on this one is really really sweet.
What kid- what person for that matter- young or old, doesn't dream of magic, of doing magic , of being able to create magic. Who doesn't love magic tricks, or doesn't love the magic of the movies or the magic of the stage or the magic of a musical performance. That feeling! That overwhelming joy and that incredible feeling that you want to go home and do it too! It's intoxicating!
This story is about a wee boy's over-the-top infatuation with Harry Houdini and the incredible seamless magic that he performed. It's about that child's determination to do it too - to be just like his idol ... to be a magician and escape ... and watch everyone else's amazement at your ability to do it! Only .... it's not as easy as it seems.
This story is also about the magic of life. How magic is there. It's always there. And how it sometimes can sit up and smack you in the face!
Beautifully written, beautifully illustrated and wonderfully researched and supported with extra information. All kids books should be like this one! It makes you see the magic.
It makes you want to do it!
What kid- what person for that matter- young or old, doesn't dream of magic, of doing magic , of being able to create magic. Who doesn't love magic tricks, or doesn't love the magic of the movies or the magic of the stage or the magic of a musical performance. That feeling! That overwhelming joy and that incredible feeling that you want to go home and do it too! It's intoxicating!
This story is about a wee boy's over-the-top infatuation with Harry Houdini and the incredible seamless magic that he performed. It's about that child's determination to do it too - to be just like his idol ... to be a magician and escape ... and watch everyone else's amazement at your ability to do it! Only .... it's not as easy as it seems.
This story is also about the magic of life. How magic is there. It's always there. And how it sometimes can sit up and smack you in the face!
Beautifully written, beautifully illustrated and wonderfully researched and supported with extra information. All kids books should be like this one! It makes you see the magic.
It makes you want to do it!
November 21, 2013
My wife and I took turns reading The Invention of Hugo Cabret to our son as a bedtime story. We all really liked it, and I wanted to read more by Brain Selznick. On a regular trip to the library I decided to see what they had in for Selznick. Honestly I was really hoping they had his newer one Wonderstruck, but I saw this and figured my son would love anything having to do with magic.
This is a lot shorter than it looks. Like Invention of Hugo Cabret there are words and pictures throughout the book, and I do enjoy his illustrations. The story takes up a little over half of the book. The other half of the book is a brief history of Houdini and how this book came to be published. Both were very interesting, and I enjoyed them, but my 4 year old couldn't care less.
The story is a good one. Victor is a young boy who hero worships Houdini. In a brief moment in a train station he meets his idol and asks as many questions as he can. If I elaborate any more I will give away the whole story.
This was a good book that my son and I enjoyed. I will give this three out of five stars for the simple fact that I wanted more. Be warned, I will not spoil anything, but the ending leaves you hanging. I turned the page expecting more and that was it. There could have been a good deal more to the story that would have made this a higher rated title in my mind.
This is a lot shorter than it looks. Like Invention of Hugo Cabret there are words and pictures throughout the book, and I do enjoy his illustrations. The story takes up a little over half of the book. The other half of the book is a brief history of Houdini and how this book came to be published. Both were very interesting, and I enjoyed them, but my 4 year old couldn't care less.
The story is a good one. Victor is a young boy who hero worships Houdini. In a brief moment in a train station he meets his idol and asks as many questions as he can. If I elaborate any more I will give away the whole story.
This was a good book that my son and I enjoyed. I will give this three out of five stars for the simple fact that I wanted more. Be warned, I will not spoil anything, but the ending leaves you hanging. I turned the page expecting more and that was it. There could have been a good deal more to the story that would have made this a higher rated title in my mind.
March 12, 2012
Selznick's first novel tells the story of a young boy who wants to be just like Houdini, much to the chagrin of his family. When he finally meets his idol Houdini promises to write him. The letter arrives instructing the boy to visit. He is too excited to wait for the proper day, and instead appears on Houdini's doorstep on Halloween. Houdini has died, and left him a box. Not believing the box to belong to Houdini because of the initials on it he gives up his dreams. Years pass and one day a chance encounter leads him to finally open the box.
As with Selznick's latest novels this one has detailed pencil drawings, although they do not further the story as much as the drawings in The Invention of Hugo Cabret and Wonderstruck. It's a sweet story and can be quickly read, although it is worth spending extra time on the drawings.
As with Selznick's latest novels this one has detailed pencil drawings, although they do not further the story as much as the drawings in The Invention of Hugo Cabret and Wonderstruck. It's a sweet story and can be quickly read, although it is worth spending extra time on the drawings.
October 31, 2015
It was fun to find this book, one I did not know, published in 1991, twenty-four years ago. It isn’t really about Houdini although the endpapers show some wonderful old posters advertising his shows. A young boy, Victor, is inspired by Houdini and wants very much to meet him, to discover his secrets. He does manage to meet him by chance, and receives a letter from Houdini with a date for their meeting. So excited, the boy goes that very day instead, and is handed a box by Houdini’s wife, a locked box, and then the boy learns that Houdini has just died. It is Halloween, 1926. It isn’t a great story, but interesting in its mystery. You’ll need to read this to find how it ends. One discovers more connected to this imagined tale in the one page of backmatter by Selznick. The wonderful thing, however, is that Selznick’s illustrations are there, the beautiful ones we’ve loved in his recent books. And, on the very first page of the story, Selznick used the word, “wonderstruck”. I don’t know if he remembered that word, but it was great fun to read it here in this older story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 257 reviews