rache1p 's review for:

The Arrival by Shaun Tan

4.5

emotional medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: No

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this graphic novel is phenomenal in so many ways. the depiction of different stories of migration - refugees, war, suffering. the use of warm vs cool tones to convey characters' emotions, and contrast a sense of despair vs hope.

the protagonist getting used to the alien creatures as symbolism of acclimatisation. the fact that the people who help him are the people who were also displaced. the use of panels to capture small moments of fragility and vulnerability. the spreads where he longs for his family, and where he's finally reunited with them. the story coming full circle, with his daughter being the one to help.

I am astounded by how shaun gives so much depth and intimacy with nothing but the use of his visuals. a must read.