The Arrival by Shaun Tan

Image Source: http://goo.gl/xoBYXB
Image Source: http://goo.gl/CnxJd0

Primary Source Images - Immigrant Portraits

How to "read" The Arrival:

The Arrival is a wordless picture book which requires a different set of skills than "reading" a traditional book. As Shaun Tan must rely on images rather than words it is important for you to take time to look at each image carefully. You should keep the following in mind:
  • What mood do the images evoke?
  • How is symbolism used to convey meaning beyond the images?
  • How do the images connect to those that come before and after them?
  • What connections can you make to your own experiences, or to what you know about the world?
Often times layers of meaning can be found in a wordless picture book. For example, every time I reread The Arrival I make new connections and come to a deeper understanding . Bottom line: DON"T BE AFRAID TO "REREAD" MULTIPLE TIMES!

The Arrival - Chapter I

Primary Source Images - Immigrating to America

The Arrival - Chapter II

If you have time, and you are interested...

These short interviews show Shaun Tan talking about the creation of The Arrival. Here were some of the ones Mrs. G enjoyed:
    • Interview 3 of 16: How long did it take to create The Arrival?
    • Interview 4 of 16: How did your vision evolve?
    • Interview 6 of 16: Why a sepia color scheme?
    • Interview 7 of 16: What are the challenges of creating a wordless book?
    • Interview 8 of 16: What do the serpents above the city symbolize? 
    • Interview 9 of 16: Were the drawings inspired by Ellis Island (US) photographs?