Rules of Summer

by Shaun Tan
Rules of Summer cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Children's Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 1640
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • ISBN: 9781444920031
  • Published: 2013-11-07
  • Formats: 7
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Bookshop
Format • £10.44

Rules of Summer by Shaun Tan is a captivating blend of humor and surreal fantasy that explores the complexities of childhood through the lens of two boys' summer adventures. Each spread in the book reveals an event and the accompanying lesson learned, gradually descending into darker and more unsettling territory as the boys' games escalate. /n/n Shaun Tan, known for his acclaimed works like The Red Tree and The Arrival, brings his unique artistic vision to this illustrated narrative. The book's surreal and thought-provoking nature makes it a standout piece in the realm of children's literature, inviting readers to ponder the boundaries between imagination and reality.

Reviews
Halcyon Realms · 2022-08-03
captivating 4.00

A picture book that explores the often complicated emotional relationship between an elder and younger brother.

This review focuses on the dynamic between the two brothers and how the book captures the complexities of their relationship. The reviewer praises the book's ability to explore themes of sibling rivalry and cooperation, and notes that the story is both entertaining and meaningful. They also highlight the book's visual appeal and its ability to engage readers of all ages.

Quick quotes

    A picture book that explores the often complicated emotional relationship between an elder and younger brother.

    The book captures the complexities of sibling rivalry and cooperation.

    Engaging and meaningful, with a visual appeal that draws readers in.

The Guardian · MA Griffin · 2016-04-14
magical 4.50

A mesmerizing picture book that captures the wonder and terror of childhood, with a focus on the emotional depth of the story.

This review highlights Shaun Tan's ability to create a sense of enchantment and unease, blending the magical with the mundane. The reviewer praises the book's emotional resonance and its ability to evoke both the beauty and the fear of childhood experiences. They particularly note how the book can be interpreted in multiple ways, making it a rich and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    A mesmerizing picture book that captures the wonder and terror of childhood.

    The book's emotional depth and resonance are particularly noteworthy.

    A rich and thought-provoking read that can be interpreted in multiple ways.

Nerdy Book Club · Shawna Coppola · 2014-07-09
enchanting 4.50

A book that deserves multiple reads for its entertainment value and depth.

This review praises the book's ability to entertain and engage readers, while also offering deeper layers of meaning. The reviewer notes that the book is both fun and thought-provoking, making it a great choice for readers of all ages. They particularly highlight Shaun Tan's ability to create a sense of wonder and curiosity in his storytelling.

Quick quotes

    A book that deserves multiple reads for its entertainment value and depth.

    Both fun and thought-provoking, making it a great choice for readers of all ages.

    Shaun Tan's ability to create a sense of wonder and curiosity in his storytelling.

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