The Arrival by Shaun Tan

I was in the library one lunchtime, and as was my custom, I would scan book covers and open one which interests me the most at that time. The Arrival by Shaun Tan caught my eye and I started "reading" through the pages.

Only it wasn't a regular book; it's a picture book, but not a picture book for kids. As I saw each detailed illustration slowly tell the story of a man who left his wife and kid to work in a strange land (and a strange land it was!), I felt a strange connection to the story as it unravelled. It felt like, in a way, it was telling my own story. It was sad in the beginning, strange, exciting, and a bit scrary at the latter part of the journey, and then a feeling of relief and happiness and getting settled (which, I think, is still something I have yet to discover).

As the story ended and I closed the book, I saw this quote at the back cover:

"What drives many to leave everything behind and journey alone to a mysterious country, a place without family or friends, where everything is nameless and the future is unknown? This silent graphic novel is the story of every migrant, every refugree, every displaced person, and a tribute to all those who have made the journey."

No wonder I was able to relate to the story.

Nicely drawn and engaging, it's a wonderful book to "read". A copy is available at the Wellington City Library.

Shaun Tan has a website featuring his works, including The Arrival and other Picture books (photo credit: this site).

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