Genre
Graphic Novel
Setting and Context
Rose's story is set in Hoboken, New Jersey in the year 1927. Ben's story is set in Gunflint Lake, Minnesota, and later in New York City in the year 1977.
Narrator and Point of View
It is narrated in the third-person. The perspective alternates between Ben and Rose.
Tone and Mood
The tone is wonder, mystery, and nostalgia. The mood is curious and intriguing.
Protagonist and Antagonist
The protagonists are Ben and Rose. The antagonistic forces include personal setbacks and difficulties in communication.
Major Conflict
Ben and Rose are searching for answers about their identities and family histories. After losing his hearing, Ben's main conflict is his search for his absent father. He sets out on a journey to New York City encountering obstacles to uncover the truth about his family. Meanwhile, Rose feels isolated in her strict home environment and yearns for adventure and connection. Her primary conflict is her desire to explore the world beyond her confined life.
Climax
The climax occurs when Ben and Rose finally meet at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.
Foreshadowing
Rose's fascination with silent films foreshadows her connection to the world of cinema and her eventual meeting with Lillian Mayhew, a silent film actress.
Understatement
N/A
Allusions
The museum serves as an allusion to the real-life American Museum of Natural History in New York City.
Imagery
Selznick's written narrative and intricate black-and-white illustrations bring the settings and characters to life. Whether it's capturing the bustling streets of 1970s New York City or the silent beauty of the American Museum of Natural History. The imagery allows readers to visualize the scenes and connect with the characters' experiences.
Paradox
Although Ben and Rose come from completely different periods, they share a connection.
Parallelism
Both Ben and Rose embark on personal quests to uncover the truth about their identities. Their parallel journeys involve navigating unfamiliar territory and facing obstacles.
Metonymy and Synecdoche
N/A
Personification
“One glowing window beckoned, staring back through the darkness.”
This personification is describing a window as if it is a living thing. The window is described as staring back.
