Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 01/01/2023 *Starred Review* Following the success of Nina (2021), Todd offers another engaging picture book biography of a Black woman artist in this account of the life and times of Jackie Ormes, the first Black woman to have a nationally syndicated newspaper comic strip. Jaunty artwork by comics artist Wright (Twins, 2020) perfectly sets the tone with bright colors, visual references to classic comic strip conventions, and animated versions of Ormes’ iconic cartoon characters Torchy Brown and Patty-Jo. Ormes’ varied career is fascinating, and Todd’s engrossing and well-researched text really does it justice, describing her skill with language in her newspaper columns, the sly awareness at work in her comic strips, and the philanthropy her success allowed her to perform. Along with that success, however, came heightened attention from federal agencies suspicious of powerful Black Americans: the FBI trailed her for a decade. Todd’s ability to seamlessly weave in important historical context adds important depth to this celebratory and joyful story of a woman undauntedly following her passions. There’s a dearth of books about Ormes for children, and her success is an important part of the history of American comics that is often overshadowed by more familiar names; this bright, informative, and inviting book should start to turn that tide. Extensive back matter bolsters the already strong content. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 03/10/2023 Gr 2–5—An outstanding picture book biography about a groundbreaking Renaissance woman. Zelda "Jackie" Ormes was an artist and storyteller from birth. By the time she was a teen, she was a sports journalist for the Black-owned Pittsburgh Courier and eventually created a comic strip called Torchy Brown in "Dixie to Harlem," which centered around a young woman making her mark during the Great Migration. Ormes was the first nationally syndicated Black woman cartoonist. She also started a strip called Patty-Jo 'n' Ginger about two sisters, which she used to comment on Black life, World War II and its aftermath, and the fight for justice. It became so popular that Ormes created her own Patty-Jo dolls and began to use her influence to support better housing and schools for Black people, catching the attention of the FBI, which spied on her for 10 years. Todd's impeccable research shines through in the accessible text. The narrative is punchy with the pop of a comic strip, and Ormes is the protagonist. It will draw in readers and make them want to learn more about this fascinating artist. Cartoonist Wright's digital art has a textured feel, like a comic strip come alive. The 1940s setting is depicted through vivid, jewel-tone illustrations and reproductions of Ormes's famous characters. The design perfectly matches the subject, with speech bubbles, newspaper-like clippings, and dynamic scenes. Back matter includes author and illustrator's notes, photos, a selected bibliography, and scenes from the Patty-Jo cartoon. VERDICT An extraordinary picture book biography about an extraordinary pioneer in comics and journalism that deserves a spot on every shelf.—Shelley M. Diaz - Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.