Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 07/01/2017 *Starred Review* Children who think a visit to the British Library and its vast holdings might be on the dull side will quickly learn otherwise from this enchanting (and cleverly conceived) book. The authors know how to focus in on the items that will pique kids’ interest, starting with St. Cuthbert’s sixth-century Bible—the image of Cuthbert’s skeleton, with the gospel alongside him in the coffin, makes for an eye-opening start. Throughout, the thoughtful design combines humor and information, which comes in both introductory text and clever sidebars that focus in on an element of the holding. For instance, a two-page spread of da Vinci’s notebooks tells a bit about Leonardo and shows a close-up of his flying machine, while, illustrated with the authors’ own drawings, a sidebar explains more about the notebooks. Which brings us to the terrific illustrations that Manning and Granström provide. Using the book’s oversize format to best advantage, they combine collage, pencil drawing, watercolors, and digital artwork to provide some images that are in-your-face, and others that need to be seen close to be appreciated. Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Sherlock Holmes all make appearances, and though no people of color get a spread, there are people of other races in supporting roles. Book lovers as well as budding artists will find this quite the buffet to dip into. - Copyright 2017 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 07/01/2017 Gr 2–5—Tackling everything from Darwin to Dickens, Shakespeare to the Brontë sisters, this volume about famous books and the amazing library they live in is a treat for the eyes and the mind. The British Library houses an impressive and enviable collection of materials old and new. Manning and Granström spotlight several of them here, all of which are penned by white authors. This title covers the books' historical significance, offers information about their authors, and, occasionally, discusses how the works were produced, some being handwritten copies. One-of-a-kind examples include the enormous Klencke Atlas, which takes six people to lift, and Lady Jane Grey's prayer book, coming in at a mere three inches by three inches, making it one of the smaller items in the library. The playful mixed-media collages mirror the lighthearted tone of the text, combining for a joyful, thoroughly accessible read. Bits of the original books incorporated into the collages are side by side with paper doll—like people, doodles by the artists, and captions. This attractive, enlightening introduction to many celebrated works of literature might encourage readers to seek out some from their own local library. VERDICT A stunningly designed romp through literature, and an excellent addition to most libraries.—Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.