Jonathan: Rules of Summer has left a lot to the imagination. It is a book that allows you to change or modify the story in your own way.
Tom : Rules of Summer is a picture book for all ages. A three year old might look at the pictures and get the idea of two boys having lots of adventures together but, there is far greater depth. Shaun Tan has left us to our own imagination...to write our own story.....the illustrations enhance the story ...being an abstract story, you need to pay attention to the pictures which are beautifully created.
Daniel: This book is cleverly written and mysterious. I have some questions! What was the eye for? Where is the story set? How long is the summer? Are the two brothers happy?
Madeline: The words tell one story, but the pictures tell another. The older brother's rules apply to the younger brother, but the younger brother's interpretations are quite different. The start of the story is bright and cheerful and then becomes dark and gloomy. Then the colour regains its liveliness. The colour sends your mind racing.
Corinne: Although the plot might not be seen as a normal story line, I believe the colours and textures throughout the pages were enough to display a change of thought or mood.
Nicholas: This book initially confused me, but after hearing Shaun Tan speak, (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHYRc7F0pwQ) the book made sense as to how we could use our imagination to make the two boys whoever we want. I liked how the illustrations are made to make us think and how exaggerated they were. For example, when the rule told the boy not to take the last olive, it showed evil hawks as the guests.
Katherine: The story is about two boys, one older and one younger, following the rules of summer but, of course, your imagination can take you anywhere from hawks in suits to giant red rabbits.
Joe: This story sways your emotions through the use of illustrations and colour. The plot is simple but, it shouts aout exaggeration and humour.
Teacher reflection: I loved the students' high level of engagement with this story. Much time was spent discussing its mood, purpose and the literary and artistic devices employed. Viewing Shaun Tan's discussion about his book enhanced their understanding.
