Introduction to The Arrival

The Arrival is the story of an immigrant travelling to a foreign land. While his homeland and destination are unknown, his experiences are universally recognizable. His journey is perilous, shared by countless others, spanning a dark and dangerous ocean. When he arrives safely, he is overwhelmed by his surroundings. The reader shares in one immigrant's journey, where the protagonist struggles to decipher the sights and sounds around him, as he endeavours to establish a life for himself. Thankfully, others offer to help him along the way. They share elements of their own stories of hardship, overcoming the circumstances that led them to flee their home countries. Tan's illustrations beckon the reader to share in the protagonist's journey, his challenges, and his hope for the future.

This information and more can be found on Shaun Tan's official website .