Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 03/15/2023 Loosely framed as a conversation between una niña and her abuelo, this poetic picture book introduces young readers to some of the reasons why trees are astounding. A series of double-page spreads highlights just a remarkable few of Earth's 73,000 species, each entry containing one or two rhythmic free-verse stanzas that describe a tree and its defining traits. There are some common subjects, like redwoods and baobabs, but most are less known, such as the ahuehuete, Wollemi pine, and moringa. Illustrations done in acrylic paint, stamped leaf prints, and collaged specimens are able to provide interesting details and dynamic angles of the fascinating flora. A smattering of Spanish is mostly what reminds readers of the dialogue conceit, which ends by touching briefly on the importance of conservation. Happily, back matter expands on and helpfully adds to this as well as the facts within the text. All in all, a solid entrée. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 04/01/2023 Gr 2–5—There is so much life in trees, and trees bring so much life into our world. Delacre shares her love for trees by selecting 14 different ones from around the globe. Readers learn about each tree by following the path of a young girl and her abuelo as they work together checking on and caring for trees. Across the spreads, readers see them planting seeds that will grow into mighty trees. Delacre also provides historical information about the trees featured in the book, sharing research and how she arrived at her work. Finally, she challenges readers to be good stewards of trees. VERDICT Delacre's declaration of the essential role of trees is admirable and should be heeded by all; in text and pictures she makes clear their beauty and uniqueness.—Laura Ellis - Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.