A Walk Through The Rainforest by Martin Jenkins

In this exquisite picture book, the author takes his readers on a short walk through the tropical rain forest using the beautiful artwork of illustrator Vicky White.

The journey begins with an illustration showing the tropical rain forest in Malaysia, in a place called Taman Negara. The rain forest is described as "Hot and sticky and pretty dark." Jenkins wonders where all the animals are since the forest contains wild cats, pheasants, pigeons, squirrels, frogs, owls and many different types of insects. However, listening to the sounds in the forest reveals that although they can't be seen, there are many types of animals living there.

One thing that is visible in the tropical rain forest is the trees! There are many different kinds including one called a tualang which is likely two hundred years old. When looking closer at the trees however, most are big and old: there are few young trees. How will the forest replenish itself if there are no young trees? That question is answered as Jenkins continues his walk through the tropical forest, uncovering clues that lead him to determine how tropical rain forests continue to thrive and regenerate!

Discussion

To highlight some of the more fascinating features of the tropical rain forest, author Martin Jenkins poses a question about the lack of young trees in the forest and sets out to find the answer. Along the way, readers uncover some of the hidden animals of the tropical rain forest, and the processes that bring about the growth of new trees in the dense forest. The text is simple and straightforward, with the reader being led through the forest by a description of animals and their behaviours. Clues found in the rain forest suggest answers to the question posed.

The detailed illustrations of Vicky White help young readers visualize a ecological system many will not be very familiar with. These gorgeous illustrations are done in pencil and oil paint and are richly textured. It is these illustrations that really make this picture book special. There's a section on The World's Rain Forests and a section at the back of coloured illustrations of birds, insects and other invertebrates, mammals, and frogs and reptiles, many of which have been included in the illustrations. Readers are invited to go back and see if they can find these creatures in the illustrations.

In an era where many picture books have digitally created artwork, A Walk Through The Rain Forest is a treat, showing readers what traditional illustrations have to offer, while also highlighting some of the features of the tropical rainforest. A must-read book for children and adults alike!

Book Details:

A Walk Through The Rainforest by Martin Jenkins 

Somerville, Massachusetts: Candlewick Press    2022