Tan, S. (2007). The Arrival. (p. 128). Arthur A. Levine Books.
ISBN: 1590785002
Classification: graphic novel, fiction
Genre: urban fantasy
Age Level: 9th -12th grade
Subjects: graphic novel, family, fantasy, immigration, magic
Reader's Annotation: A father leaves his family for a foreign land in hopes of creating a better life.
Summary: The Arrival is an immigration story. The protagonist leaves his family behind to forge a better life for them in a strange, downright fantastical, new land. There are no words in this story, only a foreign alphabet, which gives the reader an idea of what it would be like to struggle in a place where you didn't speak the language. The protagonist finds a job in a massive factory and begins to make new friends though he obviously misses his family very much. Through the sepia toned pictures that seem to come from an old family album, the reader understands how much struggling goes into setting up a life in a new place.
Reviews / Awards:
New York Times Review- 2007 The Children's Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Awards: Picture Book of the Year
- 2007 New South Wales Premier's Literary Awards, Community Relations Commission Award
- 2008 Hugo Award Nominated for Best Related Book
Potential Hotspots:
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Readalikes:
- Woolvs in the Sitee by Margaret Wild
- The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
This immigration story is one that will be familiar to most readers but it is told in a way that is unlike any other book. Tan's graphic novel is a stunning example of visual storytelling, and thus a fantastic choice for reluctant readers. There is nothing "easy" about this rich and complex story, but the lack of words makes it perfect for those who struggle with reading.
Other:
The illustrations in this graphic novel are incredible. They are rich with detail and frequently appear more like photographs than like drawings. Readers will be able to enjoy them again and again.
Evaluation:
5 stars
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