Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 02/01/2021 It takes three words to say, “It isn’t fair,” but in the law known as Title IX, it took the 37 words to change America. While earlier historical documents had ensured certain rights, until Title IX was passed in 1972, women who married or became pregnant could be fired from certain jobs. Women were seldom considered for careers in fields such as medicine, science, and higher education. And most schools offered girls few opportunities in sports. To its credit, this picture book underscores that the legislation’s effect has been greater equality of opportunities in schools, universities, and workplaces as well as in athletics. From the writer and illustrator of Counting on Katherine (2018), this attractive picture book portrays some of the injustices faced by girls and women 50 years ago and shows changes brought about by Title IX. Appended notes explain the law more fully. The simply worded, well-crafted main text makes its points effectively, while the art, combining digital and traditional elements, illustrates the words with quiet dignity. An intriguing, early introduction to women’s rights. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 02/01/2021 K-Gr 4—There are a few previously published books about Title IX for children, but they focused on the impact of the law on expanding girls' participation in sports. In this picture book, Becker explains that Title IX applies to all aspects of education. The law ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to pursue an education, training, and a job in the field of their choice. The text notes that the 37 words that encapsulate the law were not included in earlier pivotal documents, such as the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. The colorful, full-page illustrations depict the fight for the ratification of the law and young people enjoying the opportunities that it provides on the athletic field, in the classroom, and beyond. The illustrations present girls from a variety of races and ethnicities. The straightforward text provides a look at the fundamental nature of the law. The back matter features additional information, including portraits of the heroes in Congress who fought for the passage of Title IX, details regarding the progress made and the work to be done for full equality, and resources for further exploration. Incorporating more of the information in the back matter into the main text would have enhanced the book, especially for older readers. VERDICT A recommended addition that expands awareness of the full impact of Title IX.—Theresa Muraski, Univ. of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Lib. - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.