Cicada is a four only for Shaun Tan’s signature styled illustrations. They are the most amazing and interesting part of the book. The story itself is a thinly veiled story of a worker being persecuted with being the “underpaid, underappreciated, worker because they are not like others due to their minority status (i.e.: they are black, gay, Asian, poor, fat, unattractive, a cicada).” Cicada does not help this by speaking “improper English” by telling his story in choppy sentences (“Cicada tell story. Story good.”). And the number 17 plays a very large part of the metaphor of the story.
Tan could have made something beautiful out of an ugly subject. This story could have been poetic and strong and make a point all at the same time. Unfortunately, Tan fell flat for me. However, I will say a coworker was completely on the other end of the spectrum and cannot say enough good things about it. There was a debate even if it should be in the children’s department (as many of his books are) or in the art section.
Therefore, this book will smack you up-side-the-head, bring out all the feelings and you will feel strongly about it after finishing. What you bring to the table will color your thoughts, feelings, likes and dislikes about this book.
With that said, I have never really liked a Tan story/book. I have, however, never hated a Tan illustration. I have not always loved them (or even liked them) but never hated them. I do not read a Tan book for the text, but to see what amazing piece of art work that has been created. Perfect pairings of colors and lack of color. The perfect look of photograph and painting.
As mentioned above, Tan tends to find himself in our young adult section of the store (which is part of our children’s department). Tan is not meant for a person under aged 10 (even the picture books are mature and concepts older). I am not sure who one would purchase this for, but most likely a fan of Tan’s art and someone into art. (This book lives in our Art section currently).
Cicada is one of those books you have to experience instead of relying on someone’s review.
