Martin and the River, written by Jon-Erik Lappano and illustrated by Josee Bisaillon. Groundwood Books, 2022. $18.99 ages 4 and up

"Martin wished he were as big
as a giant. Then he would dig
a new path so the river would

flow all the way to the city to 
be with him. 

Or if he were as small as a 
mouse, the herons could 
carry him to the river on 
their backs."

Martin has always loved the natural world that surrounds his rural home. He spends endless time on the riverbank, enjoying all of its 'best places'. He is constantly learning about the birds and animals that make their homes there. When his mother gets a job that means a move to the city, Martin needs time to adjust. His parents reassure him about the many advantages of urban life. 

Martin only wants his river. He imagines all the many ways he could return to it after their move. As he sits at the water's edge, he does his best to devise a workable plan. There are no viable options.  A visit to the city with his parents offers some fun and many distractions; still, his river is not there. His parents leave the best place to the last. On a walk with them, Martin makes an important discovery. 

"Martin felt something familiar in the air. 
Then, beyond the trees, he saw it - 
a small stream winding its way through 
the park. 
Martin breathed in deep. It almost 
smelled like home."

With one final, and important, gesture to his past life accepting his new one, Martin takes a lasting remembrance from the river itself. He will surely visit the city park often in the company of his empathetic parents. 

The artwork for this homage paid to the beauty of nature and Martin's love for it was created using mixed media - collage, colored pencils, soft pastels, gouache, and digital montage. It evokes all of the real beauty Martin feels. Color choices made affect the mood as the story is read. Changing perspectives offer a clear look at the emotions Martin is feeling.