Shaun and Outer Suburbia
How does Shaun Tan do it? With The Arrival still winning accolades around the world, his new title, Tales from Outer Suburbia is officially released in Australia and New Zealand this weekend.
Shaun gave a glimpse at the recent CBCA Conference, when he shared the story of Eric, the overseas exchange student.
This is no wordless picture book. Far from it. Shaun might surprise many people - he is as adept with words as he is with art. And just as quirky. The fifteen stories are funny, whimsical, poignant, moving and touch on contemporary themes in very strange Tan-like settings with homages to suburban Perth thrown in. It’s hard not to be just a tad parochial as we collectively rejoice in Shaun’s success.
Tales from Outer Suburbia is a treat. Publication in the US is scheduled for later in the year. No British date in sight at this stage.
