How a Thank-You Email Won Our Library Signed Shaun Tan Books

The Mojaka Library just received seven precious signed books from Shaun Tan!

Here’s how a simple thank-you email made it all happen.

When our small community library in Ojobi, Ghana, received donated books a while ago from Glenn, two treasures stood out: Rules of Summer and Lost and Found by Shaun Tan. From just the cover, I was mesmerized.

Shaun’s style instantly struck me: his words, concise yet punchy; his illustrations, like dreams you’d long to step into. Nothing feels quite real, yet it’s larger than life—dramatized and flamboyant in a way that makes adults nostalgic for childhood and unlocks children’s imaginations. The kids couldn’t stop whispering, “Shaun Tan is wonderful! How is he so talented?”

So I looked him up online and discovered he’s an Academy Award winner! I found his agent’s contact and sent a gratitude email. Given Shaun’s pedigree, I never expected a reply. I wanted him to know how much his books meant to us and how they’d become part of the Mojaka Library’s heartbeat. Then I went to sleep and forgot about it.

Days later, my inbox held a miracle. His agent, Sophie Byrne, wrote back: Shaun had received my email, was deeply touched, and wanted to send more books. When I told the kids, my family, and the neighbourhood, we were over the moon. The children asked daily, “When will the books arrive?” And arrive they did.

When I picked up the package, my hands shook too much to open it. But when I finally did, a postcard fluttered out—a handwritten note from Shaun, thanking us and wishing the library project well. I wept right there. He’d also signed all seven books he sent: The Bird King and Other Sketches, Tales from Outer Suburbia, Cicada, The Red Tree, The Lost Thing, The Rabbits, and The Arrival.

I’m not sure Shaun realizes the earthquake of joy his kindness sparked in our almost insignificant town of Ojobi (a place you’d miss if you blinked at the map). As a designer, his vast creativity ignites me. The kids now race to read and draw without fear of judgment. They’ll remember this moment for life. The parents? They’re still pinching themselves.

These books will sit in a place of honour on our shelves—too precious to borrow but always to admire. The postcard? Framed where I’ll see it each morning. On days when exhaustion or doubt creeps in, Shaun’s words could remind me that miracles exist.

From me and everyone in Ojobi and the neighbouring towns (Buduatta, Dabayin, and Dominase), thank you, Shaun Tan.

Wish to support us? You can send Books/Art supplies to Box KN 5114, Kaneshie, Accra, Ghana. Or you can read about other ways to support here.