Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 03/01/2021 In 1818, Paris seamstress Jeanne Villepreux-Power moved to Sicily. There she pursued her interest in nature by observing and sketching the island’s animals. After designing a variety of innovative aquariums and underwater cages, she began watching and sketching live sea creatures as well. She decided to answer a question debated by naturalists: did the paper nautilus (a type of octopus) grow its own shell or use shells from other animals? Placing paper nautilus eggs in an aquarium, she took notes on the creatures’ growth, including the gradual formation of their shells. While the scientific establishment was slow to accept her evidence and conclusion, today she is recognized for her methodology and results. Among a growing number of young people’s biographies that take note of the difficulties faced by women in the sciences, this colorful picture book offers a well-organized, informative text and lively digital illustrations. The book focuses on Villepreux-Power’s practical approach, resilience, and confidence in her work. An appealing biography for children intrigued by sea creatures, and an inspiring choice for future marine biologists. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 03/01/2021 Gr 2–5—The sea holds many secrets, but one revolutionary scientist sought to solve them all. This biographical picture book centered on Jeanne Power (1794–1871), a white French marine biologist, chronicles the beginnings of her scientific fascination with nature and the discoveries she made through experimentation and studying sea creatures such as the paper nautilus. Later on in her career, Power lost her life's work in a shipwreck, which forced her to recreate her experiments and stand up to critics to reclaim her place in history. Each spread features rich illustrations that capture the wonder and mystery of the sea, complemented by Power's experiments, prototyping, and observations. The artwork features sketches and blazing blue and aqua seascapes. The text and images are accessible and easy to understand. The back matter includes a more detailed spread about Power, scientific information about the paper nautilus and marine biology and conservation, and a note on historical research. VERDICT An excellent purchase for elementary school collections because of the focus on an unsung female scientist paired with solid back matter and beautiful illustrations.—Molly Dettmann, Norman North H.S., OK - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.