Marc Martin's illustrative style, coupled with his creative storytelling has truly captured our imagination. His clever use of mixed media and texture make for a pleasingly vibrant read and the anticipation of what lies overleaf, make all of his books irresistible page-turners. 'A River' is true testament to that as we pored over each spread. In this, his most recent picture book, 'A River' follows a young girl who imagines herself floating along a river, as she gazes out of her window.... From Martin's stunning representation of the patchwork fields to the hubbub of the bustling city, each unfurling spread is dramatically different from its predecessor. Lush, vibrant palettes smattered with a mix of illustrative styles and sumptuous textures won't fail to please any reader. A perfect introduction for a younger reader to the world around us and it's dramatic landscapes.And don't forget to keep an eye out for the boat and our intrepid adventurer as you follow the undulating river. This beautifully packaged story provides a geographical lesson wrapped up in a selection of breathtaking art.
Sarah Yewman
Picture Books Blogger
A River from Marc Martin is a beautifully rendered, imaginative picture book that takes its readers on a wonderful journey. Marc Martin's picture books are always a delight - a feast for the eyes, gloriously narrated. [...] Martin's thoughtful narrative is accompanied by his stunning illustrations. Using an evocative darker palette he brings each landscape to life, not an inch of each page is wasted. A River is a real treat for the eyes.
Emma Perry
MY Book Corner
Worlds become real in this sumptuous offering from Marc Martin, an award-winning Australian illustrator, which will be enjoyed by the under fives as well as their parents. Martin's immersive illustrations in A River evoke diverse textures in stylish ochre tones, with storms conjured by splashes of watery ink, and waves smeared across the page like paint. The book's greatest delight lies in its visual details, which will thrill animal-lovers: dancing horses and powwowing pigs in the fields, stray cats stalking the city streets, and a jungle of tigers, monkeys, butterflies and birds, who morph into bright white eyes as night falls.
The Telegraph