My Tattoed Dad (2009)
Daniel Nesquens
Illustrated by Magicomora
Translated by Elisa Amado
"Reading his tattoos is more fun than reading any book ever written."
This collection of stories shared between father and son is beautifully illustrated with tattoo-like art. On the front cover, the main character's father is drawn, adorned with many images. The back cover shows a view of the tattoos on his back. Pages inside tell the story of the relationship between father and son, each chapter revealing a new connection between one of Dad's tattoos and a story. These inventive tales are accompanied by vignettes of related tattoos and full page illustrations.
The details in this story challenge many stereotypes. For example, the father is described cooking samosas and is often absent for periods of time. His mother explains to the main character that his father has "ants in his pants," and the close relationship between father and son is evident throughout the stories. This book may also call into question stereotypes of tattoed people.
Readers will want to examine the detailed illustrations closely and appreciate the winding serpents, magical birds, firecrackers and other images pictured. I'm interested in reading the Spanish version of this text.
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