Status
Available
Publication
Arthur A. Levine Books (2007), Edition: First, 128 pages
Library's review
From Kirkus Reviews, www.kirkusreviews.com, "An astonishing wordless graphic novel blends historical imagery with science-fiction elements to depict—brilliantly—the journey of an immigrant man from his terror-beset land of origin to a new, more peaceful home.
Sepia-toned panels and
It’s an unashamed paean to the immigrant’s spirit, tenacity and guts, perfectly crafted for maximum effect. (Graphic novel. 10+)"
Sepia-toned panels and
Show More
turn-of-the-last-century dress and architecture seem to place readers in familiar territory—but fantastical images, including monumental cities, various bizarre forms of air transport and distinctly alien animals serve to unsettle both protagonist and readers, plunging the latter into the unsettling and often terrifying experience of being alone in a new land. Perhaps the most ingenious touch is the use of a newly created alien alphabet printed everywhere—on signs, official papers, maps, etc.—which renders the literate entirely helpless. Frightening this new land may be, but there are friends everywhere, from the other immigrants who help the protagonist and tell their own tales of escape from oppression, war and fear to the whimsical beastie who attaches itself to him as his pet. Small panels move the story along; full- and double-page spreads provide dazzling panoramas.It’s an unashamed paean to the immigrant’s spirit, tenacity and guts, perfectly crafted for maximum effect. (Graphic novel. 10+)"
Show Less
Subjects
Awards
Hugo Award (Nominee — 2008)
Locus Award (Finalist — Art Book — 2008)
BCCB Blue Ribbon Book (2007)
Kentucky Bluegrass Award (Nominee — Grades 9-12 — 2009)
Aurealis Award (Winner — 2006)
Indies Choice Book Award (Honor Book — Children's Literature — 2008)
USBBY Outstanding International Book (Grades 6-8 — 2008)
CBCA Book of the Year (Notable Book — Picture Book — 2007)
New South Wales Premier's Literary Award (Winner — 2007)
Virginia Readers' Choice (Nominee — High School — 2009)
IBBY Honour Book (2010)
The White Ravens (2007)
Australian Book Industry Awards (Shortlist — 2007)
Rhode Island Teen Book Award (Nominee — 2009)
CYBILS Awards (Finalist — 2007)
Deutscher Jugendliteraturpreis (Nominee — 2009)
Pingprisen (2012)
Best Fiction for Young Adults (Selection — 2008)
CCBC Choices (2008)
Notable Children's Book (2008)
Great Graphic Novels for Teens (Top Ten — 2008)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2006
ISBN
0439895294 / 9780439895293