The Bird King: An Artist's Sketchbook (Walker Studio)

I bought this as a present for one of my professors - though I have my own copy at home - because whenever I think of art that is intricate and original, and an artist with a voice, Shaun Tan is one of the first to come to mind. If you are not fond of surrealist characters and illustrations used as subtle metaphors in emotional storytelling, his work may not be for you - but perhaps you may still enjoy this sketchbook as a fascinating look into the behind-the-scenes process of a very talented artist. However, if you are unfamiliar with his books but intrigued, I would suggest starting there. Either way, his sketches are wonderful; they explore a wide range of ideas, characters, and techniques, and, if you are familiar with his books, there will be images in here you will undoubtedly recognize - making it interesting to see how one might have led to the other. And although his characters feel very contemporary in the way they are stylized, he approaches his art with what I consider a reverence to form and technique that borders on the classic. So, to me, this is the kind of book I would never quite tire of looking at, noticing something new each time while admiring the love of art seen in even the tiniest scribble.

I'm a huge fan of Shaun Tan's art and creative work. This sketchbook is а really good showcase of his work. The book itself is nicely printed and has hard-covers and thin red elastic strap as it's a real sketchbook.International delivery isn't very fast, nor cheap, but I'm glad I had the opportunity to order the book to my door.

Can't wait to give this to my daughter at Christmas - the illustrations are beautiful and weird, just her sort of thing. I will be looking out for more in the future.

My 11 year old daughter loves this!

I now have everything he has ever written or produced and use them with students to discuss social issues a lot. Use these, buy these, spread the word!

This book is a must for Xmas presentIt’s fantastic inspiring gets your mind working and you can read it over and over graphics are... well unimpeachable must buy !

Really pleased with this, a must for Shaun Tan fans.

His creative art work is just amazing.