Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 03/15/2023 Using succinct, poetic text and her signature close-up nature photography, Sayre explores awkward transitional moments experienced by all animals. “Every creature on Earth at times finds itself in between. / In between boulders, in between branches. In between blueberry rows. / In between inside and outside, / day and night.” The crisp, full-color photographs are particularly appropriate to the lyrical text: baby birds nestle snugly between barn rafters, a raccoon clings to trees growing side by side, turkeys stroll between blueberry bushes. Perhaps most impressive are the shots that depict motion and change: a tiny chickadee grasps a leafless winter branch and finally lets go, taking flight; a recently molted dragonfly pauses to dry; and a pink spoonbill launches and glides away. Unspoken throughout is the idea that while changing states may feel uncertain, it allows for endings and new beginnings. More contemplative than scientific in tone (the animals are not identified), this perceptive and reassuring offering will be welcomed by in-betweeners and the late Sayre's many fans. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 05/26/2023 PreS-Gr 2—In this eye-catching volume, Sayre captures elusive moments of transition in the natural world. Her vivid images and spare prose explore multiple interpretations of what it means to be "in-between" through scenes like a whale mid-leap, a reptile half-hidden among rocks, a tadpole that hasn't quite developed into a frog, and growing baby animals that are still dependent on their mothers. Vibrant photographs showcase a variety of creatures in diverse habitats, catching striking moments of action as well as quiet glimpses of cozy comfort. Images range from crisp close-ups that create a sense of intimacy to wider views that showcase the animals' environments. Easy-to-read text is laid out playfully, with font size and style emulating the animals' actions. The book appeals to a range of ages, inviting preschool or early elementary readers to discuss the abstract concept of being in-between, while babies and toddlers may simply delight in the animals and their activities. VERDICT A welcome choice for picture book collections, especially where nature and animal books are in high demand.—Allison Tran - Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.