Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 12/15/2020 In the 1970s, firefighting was firmly closed to women, and in this expressively illustrated picture book, Rinker (Gloria Takes a Stand, 2019) tells the story of Brenda Berkman, a former law student who fought to change that. When Berkman found that the New York Fire Department’s (FDNY) physical test was unrelated to the job, and when women were given men’s equipment that was too big and got in the way, she had the test changed and powered through the equipment issue. Once in the job, she formed United Women Firefighters and became an FDNY chief. This gratifying story is told in cheerful, accessible, inclusive language—firefighting is not described as “men’s work,” for example, but as a job “men usually did.” Engaging, realistic illustrations of Berkman and her colleagues, created in India ink and black and gray acrylics with digital coloring, complement the positive tone of the text. Back matter includes details about Berkman and her perseverance and lists several sources for readers who want to investigate further. Recommended for both school and public library shelves. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 08/01/2021 Gr 2–4—Even though Brenda Berkman grew up in a time when there were "girl things" and "boy things," she did not accept it. As an adult, she studied law but found it unfulfilling. When she heard on the news in 1977 that New York City was accepting applications for women firefighters, she signed up. While she passed the written test, Berkman failed the physical test, and sued the city for discrimination, citing the city for not testing fairly. She won. The book tells the story of Berkman's persistence, adversity, and will. Rinker notes though that the fight for equal rights in the FDNY did not end with the legal victory, but continued: Berkman was not accepted socially into the fire department, and she and the other 40 women who passed the exam struggled to find their places. Playful illustrations complement the text, showing Berkman's bravery and strength, and characters with expressions of hope and heartache. Back matter offers additional information about Berkman, a bibliography, and relevant websites. VERDICT A great story to read aloud, this book will please students researching the history of firefighting or seeking barrier-breaking role models.—Lia Carruthers, Gill St. Bernard's Sch., Gladstone, NJ - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.