The Boy in the Garden

Citation

Say, Allen. 2010. The Boy in the Garden. Boston: Houghton Mifflin for Children.

ISBN 9780547214108

Summary:

While visiting Mr. Ozu’s garden, Jiro spots a crane statue and recalls the story of The Grateful Crane his mother often told him. After falling asleep, he begins to dream about the story and suddenly becomes a part of the tale.

Critical Analysis:

Allen Say beautifully tells and illustrates the book, The Boy in the Garden. Before the story begins, readers are introduced to the Japanese fairy tale The Grateful Crane; a fairy tale that serves as a basis for the main story. This is very helpful to those unfamiliar with the traditional tale. The main character, Jiro, is a sweet child with a gentle heart and vivid imagination. Japanese characters are authentically portrayed through illustrations, as well as text. For example, the text includes accurate Japanese names and mentions the traditional Japanese garment, the kimono.

The illustrations are perhaps one of the most impressive aspects of the book. Say’s watercolors are vibrant and detailed. Each has a serene quality with soft tones and delicate lines. Japanese characters are represented realistically through soft tan skin colors and life-like facial features. The Japanese architecture is impressively illustrated and represented, from the gentle curving roof of Mr. Ozu’s house to the vertical sliding panels (fusuma) of the teahouse.  The lush bonsai trees scattered throughout Mr. Ozu’s garden are another credible addition. A favorite illustration is the introduction of the mysterious woman complete with a stunning green scarf, flowing white kimono, and blue oil-paper umbrella.

 

Review Excerpt(s):  

“This is a beautiful, moving, quietly mysterious read, ripe with possibilities for interpretation and contemplation.” ~ Kirkus, Starred Review, October 2010

 

“Say's artwork, with its clean, quiet scenes, always pleases, and the more perceptive child will take much away from this.” ~Booklist, September 2010

Connections:

Other books by Allen Say-

Say, Allen. 1999. Tea with Milk. Boston: Houghton Mifflin ISBN 9780547237473

Say, Allen. 1993. Grandfather's Journey. Boston: Houghton Mifflin ISBN 9780547076805