The Lost Thing
Ratings3
Average rating3.3
A kid finds a lost 'thing' on the beach where he's scavenging for his bottle-top collection. The thing is a large, freakish creature but no-one else really notices it—it's simply not a part of their familiar day-to-day reality. So the kid takes it upon himself to try to find where the lost thing belongs...
The Lost Thing is a gently humorous story that will be read and enjoyed by a wide range of ages. While the narrative is full of typical thoughts of an observant and caring young person, the illustrations provide a surreal and thought-provoking backdrop for this 'lost dog story' with a definite twist. The Lost Thing is the first book that Shaun Tan both wrote and illustrated.
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Popular Reviews
Reviews with the most likes.
I picked up this book at the library based on the artwork alone. However, the story just didn't resonate with me. I believe this story is about identifying with people who don't feel like they belong. While that is something I struggle with, this story did not resonate with me. My boy is too young for this book still. He liked the pictures and tried to make sense of it by deciding it was about an octopus.
What I liked:
- Artwork.
- The writing voice. This story reads very naturally and smoothly. Better than most I've read.
What I didn't like:
- The story. I just didn't connect with the characters or quite get the story while reading it. I'm not sure I get it yet.
Although the art and writing are five star quality, I just didn't enjoy the book, and neither did my boy, thus the two stars.
Another gorgeously illustrated book from Shaun Tan. The detail really is stunning, and so beautifully odd.
A strange little tale, but definitely worth a read.
