"The migrants must leave the forest.
Borders are closed, sacrifices made,
loved ones are lost. It takes such
courage to reach the end.
At last the journey is over and the
migrants arrive. This is the new place."
The visual imagery here is remarkable. Issa Watanabe first introduces a huge blue ibis, carrying a stark image of death on its back. The tone is ominous. A turn past the title page shows the two approaching a brown satchel lying in the grass. Death then carries that satchel as it follows a disparate company of animals. Through deep darkness, they walk steadfastly forward with the clothes they have on their backs. Only a few are carrying any extras.
Catching up, Death motions to the satchel. The animals look longingly at it, and carry on. As they journey on, fatigue sets in and they must stop to rest and share food. Nearing the coast, they see the boat that promises their chance at freedom. Death rides above them, perched on the back of the ibis once more. Too full, the boat capsizes and spills its precious cargo overboard. The animals must save themselves; sadly, not all are lucky enough to reach shore. Despite their sadness, the survivors move forward, Finally, they find their way out of the darkness and into a brightly colored new place. The cast of migrants has dwindled; their hope for a better life has not waned.
No words are needed. The impact of the visual storytelling has a far greater impact than adding text could ever have.
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