Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 02/01/2020 Gr 2–5—Rosenstock explains the history of women's suffrage and the eventual ratification of the 19th amendment in the form of a boxing match between activist Alice Paul and President Woodrow Wilson. The diligence and coordination of Paul and her supporters and their battle to win public support, especially in light of World War I, are portrayed in an enticing and accessible manner. The narrative framework works well to depict the struggles the suffragettes faced. It took nearly five years to convince President Wilson to support women's voting rights. The full-color illustrations, rendered in muted tones, are reminiscent of vintage boxing posters and add to the boxing match aesthetic. The text provides substantial information in an approachable manner for young readers. An author's note, a time line, and a plentiful bibliography present more details for those interested in delving deeper or conducting additional research. VERDICT This title, especially with the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment approaching, is likely to be a favorite for children interested in history and activism, as well as educators. A suggested purchase for all collections.—Ellen Conlin, Naperville Public Library, IL - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 01/01/2020 This accessible storybook uses the metaphor of a prizefight to explain the battle between suffragist Alice Paul and President Woodrow Wilson over votes for women. In this corner, standing five feet six inches . . . begins the text, and from there, the action seesaws back and forth, with some rounds going to Wilson, others awarded to Paul. (She organizes parades; he ignores her. Women picket the White House; he has them arrested.) The action culminates with the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment and Paul declared the winner. The illustrations invoke period photographs, and while most portray actual historical events, some creatively show the protagonists squaring off in a boxing ring. Appended material fills out the story, helped by a time line, bibliography, and chapter notes, though only brief mention is made of the racist attitudes of many white women in the suffrage movement. It might require a bit of explanation to clarify what actually did take place, but overall this is an engaging way of making history fun and relevant. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.