The Red Tree by Shaun Tan

Title: The Red Tree

Author: Shaun Tan

Publisher: Lothian

Originally published in 2001

Pages: 28

Genres: Children’s Picture Book

Format: Waxed Paperback

Sometimes the day begins with nothing to look forward to

This is a remarkable book. Too many adults ignore the children’s section of the bookshop, thinking that there’s nothing there for them, believing that whatever concerns a child will never be of concern to an adult. This book proves how false that notion can be. In just 122 words Shaun Tan captures the essence of depression, despair, hopelessness, and finally renewal. I would say that the real magic of this story is in the pictures, but the art and the words form something of a symbiotic relationship, existing to supplement each other. 

Each illustration depicts a new world that might reflect our surroundings or the inner workings of our brains. They are abstract enough to be somewhat universal, and detailed enough that you’re sure to spot something new every time you look at them. 

I was introduced to this book in the first Children’s Literature seminar at Glasgow University. We looked at several illustrated children’s books and discussed them all. I was initially disturbed by the psychologically challenging content being aimed at children through The Red Tree, as I had previously associated children’s books with charmed escapism into a world where all is simple and happy. But let’s face it, whether it’s because of their own mental challenges or because of external factors, a lot of kids experience childhoods filled with anxiety and stress. It’s somewhat refreshing to pick up a children’s book that doesn’t seek to patronise the reader. Instead it acknowledges the universal difficulties that people everywhere face at different times, displays the various emotions connected with these feelings, and ultimately reassures.   

After my initial response I kept being drawn to this story, and I eventually bought myself a copy as I realised that this is one of those books that is universal and therefore belongs on every bookshelf. It is art of both the most simple and the most complex variety.