This beautifully illustrated picture book seems to capture the theatrical moment with breathtaking clarity.Words have a certain ambiguity whereas these images speak from the soul in a universal language. In this case silence is far louder than words.The story of a man entering a strange land and his only means of communication is through drawing; this idea fascinates me as a foreigner. Even within the English language there can be cultural barriers and misunderstandings.The drawings show immense structures with strange creatures and a different way of seeing and thinking.The feeling of not belonging within a certain environment is portrayed very strongly. By using universal human gesticulation the idea that Tan is trying to communicate is done so with ease. We familiarize with the character; we feel his detachment and loneliness.A simple image of a man looking at a family photograph says it all. As previously mentioned, this story is relatable on many different levels. This book is more than just a description of a man on a journey, but rather a metaphor designed to be understood by all.These are human emotions realized on paper, this is truly an inspiring book.
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