The lack of any words will appeal to emerging readers, but
it requires them to have skills with artistic interpretation. The detailed
illustrations use shades of black, white, and gray to tell the character’s
immigration story. Some sets of pictures show his problems communicating with various
citizens, while others depict the passage of time. They come in various sizes
with a dozen pictures filling some pages, while other two-page spreads display
one large scene. The author is clearly a master artist, and readers can appreciate
his skill and versatility.
The plot follows a man leaving his wife and daughter in
search of a better life across an ocean. Other people and families are
displayed in the pictures, as they’re hoping to fulfill similar dreams. The
first illustrations of the destination city are the clearest evidence that this
story does not take place on the planet Earth. Most of the scenes are generally
realistic, but the architecture, animals, and technology are not familiar. This
blend helps readers make connections with the story while allowing them to use
their imaginations. Minor characters share personal stories from their past,
and several of them are willing to help the man with food, work, and lodging.
What didn’t work as well:
Readers can get the gist of the plot from inferences, but specifics
are harder to understand. They’ll develop an interpretation of the story, but
there’s no way to determine what they might have missed. However, perhaps that’s
not important as long as they grasp the main character’s struggles after
immigrating to a new country.
The final verdict:
This book is a paperback reprint of a 2007 title. The listing on
Amazon indicates it’s for ages 7 and up, but the skills required by readers
probably make it more appropriate for older kids. The book’s picture format will
be attractive to young readers, but they must be very observant and use
inferencing abilities. Overall, it’s an interesting book that will please the curious
middle-grade readers.
Do you think the lack of words was meant for the reader to identify with the man who immigrated?
ReplyDeletePerhaps. There's wasn't anything distinctive about him, so he could be anybody. It makes him universally generic, so he could be immigrating from anywhere. The city wasn't on Earth, so his experiences could be in any country.
ReplyDelete