Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 02/01/2021 *Starred Review* Black history and culture come alive in this celebratory biography, whose fresh, pop art-style bursts with color and creatively sized and set sanserif font, which is as much a part of the illustrations as the many portraits and sleek silhouettes. Taking cues from the street art created during recent Black Lives Matter protests and say-their-name campaigns born of racism and such tragedies as the murder of Breonna Taylor, this book powerfully reflects current events and attitudes, while raising up Black Americans past and present. Over 116 figures are name-dropped within an inspiring array of fields, literally filling the space with a host of groundbreaking individuals: dancers, journalists, writers, community activists, lawyers, politicians, judges, artists, and illustrators. As readers turn each page, they will notice enlarged text, typically a famous quote or affirming rallying cry, accompanied by a list of names connected to that spread's topic. Teachers will find this an excellent book to use with students, both as a springboard for Black-history lessons and cross-curricular studies as well as inspiration for research projects and creative activities for students, like creating their own #BLM word clouds or Black history collages of famous leaders. A brief biographical listing for each person featured in the text rounds out this empowering, fiery speech of a book. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 02/01/2021 Gr 3–7—This inspiring title chronicles African American accomplishments from the Revolutionary War to the present. On alternating pages, the question, "Have I ever told you that…?" is posed, then answered by focusing on important Black trailblazers in disciplines such as science, arts, and politics. Each colorful page features bold fonts that vary in size and outlined portraits that resemble pop art. King's introduction explains the need for Black children to see themselves in young people's literature. He hopes that readers will understand that "all people—including native peoples; people of color; people with disabilities; ethnic, cultural, and religious minorities; and LGBTQIA" are integral to the fabric of America. Following the main text, short biographies provide further information. This unique format works for a wide range of reading levels. The intention of Black empowerment can be achieved with these inspiring role models, and the eye-catching design enhances the powerful message. This book will appeal to fans of Kwame Alexander's The Undefeated. VERDICT A must-purchase that will empower Black children, and expand all readers' knowledge of African American history.—Katherine Rao, Palos Verdes Lib. Dist., CA - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.