Told in a majestically unique style, the story of Art is a wonderful wordless picture book. Perfect for younger and older readers alike.

Marin delivers again with this unique story with distinctive illustrations. The story of ART's only words are in the introduction, however, the book will keep you engrossed with its vivid imaginative scenarios based on the pictures. This special book is truly one of a kind! ( )

Art; A story about an autistic and artist circus virtuoso by Marin—an early reader review:
At first glance, this seems to be a simple story of a talented circus performer, but the longer you spend with it, the greater the magic grows. The one paragraph introduction by the circus janitor lays all kinds of hints for one to explore. And the opening page foreshadows the finale.

To begin with, I was surprised by the “Scratch art look” of the illustrations—I think most people think of the circus as a high key color location, but this is no typical circus and the darkness allows for a spotlight and for mystery. Also, the look kind of plays on the two definitions of the word spectrum: first, a range of color—secondly, in reference to autism as to where the person lies in terms of ability. The use of line was interesting too. Clean controlled lines were used in the sky and in the background, but wherever creativity and imagination were in play, the lines were scribbly and charged with activity.

The star of the show is physically compromised (perhaps to emphasize his “otherness”), but he actually uses his prosthetic foot as an asset, gliding and balancing in ways that he could not achieve without his wheel. And his teddy bear is no simple stuffed animal—he is an animated partner that both supports and compliments his friend and frees the imagination.

The symbolism is clear enough for kids to grasp: the suitcase is his journey, the audience of royalty have it all but remain onlookers who do not push their limits, the teddy bear, as the janitor, points out is the magic that allows Art to walk the “tightrope” (ball of yarn) as he spins his own reality. By not returning for his curtain-call, it simply proves that Art is above needing the approval of others. (All art—not just this individual.)

Like I said: the longer you look, the more you see! And there is more, I am sure; I just have not opened myself up to it yet.

The one drawback of the electronic format is that you lose the two-page spread—I caught myself wishing I could see the whole picture without scrolling up and down to piece a thought together.

This book is quiet: it will not knock you over, but it will grow on you—hopefully, in you as well. ( )