Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 05/01/2020 In a little, roadless community, where rolling hills are dotted with small houses and punctuated by a lighthouse at the edge of the sea, foxes perk their ears at the sound of rumbling thunder, while indoors, a family brings out candles and a radio. A boy and his dog run home, while fishes dive deep and seagulls shelter in a cove. “Then lightning cracks, / And thunder ROARS— / It shakes the shutters, rattles doors. / The rain pours down. / The sky turns slate . . . / We hunker down to watch and wait.” After the storm, animals emerge and so do people, hauling away debris, checking on neighbors, and getting together for food and conversation outdoors. The author of many picture books, Ashman once again shows her sure hand in writing rhymed verse that flows well and provides a satisfying narrative. Yoo’s colorful, expressive illustrations, created with pencil and digital elements, dramatize the storm’s power as well as its effects on people and animals. A fine read-aloud choice with many visual details to observe and discuss. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 05/01/2020 PreS-Gr 2—As a large storm approaches, a diverse group of animals and people prepare and take shelter. They stay safe and secure and enjoy good company while the rain and winds rage outside. Then, when the storm finally passes, they work together to clean up, before celebrating. In a question and answer format with rhyming text, Ashman describes the procedure for weathering a hurricane while Yoo's digital and pencil illustrations convey the storm's sights and sounds. Everyone can be affected by this overwhelming force of nature, and only by working together can they come out unharmed. VERDICT This poetic picture book prepares children for storm season with its helpful formula and assurances.—Rachel Forbes, Oakville Public Library, Ont. - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.