A River Running Through You

‘Water’s chance to dance under the sun’ is how a river is described in A River Running Through You. It is a celebration and lyrical imagining of rivers and what they would say if they could tell stories about their history and their journeys. Storytelling is central to the text, specifically mythology around rivers and their importance throughout human history.

Within the poetic text there is an abundance of information too; for example, we learn about the water cycle and how rivers renew themselves, form glaciers, or pool in marshes and lakes, helping create different habitats and supporting life. There is surprising information about rivers hidden under the ground and even under the sea where they form highways for marine creatures. We are taken back in time to learn about early life forms which lived in water. Environmental concerns are addressed, with an acknowledgement about the precarious future of rivers and the need to fight for them and protect them.

The illustrations reflect the lyrical and slightly mystical mood the text creates. Look closely and you will spot the spirit of the girl on the first double page spread appearing in ghost-like form as the river journeys through time and place, joined by other ethereal figures from both the past and present.

A beautiful book reflecting the writer and illustrator’s passion for the subject.