Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 03/01/2021 This beautifully illustrated book of nature and ecology is full of fascinating facts, activities, and suggestions on how to save nine different habitats around the world. Its inviting format and short, concise chapters offer habitat facts, biographies, a natural wonder, a field trip, an environmental success, DIY activities, and stewardship ideas (personally, locally, globally). A diverse group of naturalists, explorers, photographers, writers, and athletes who’ve made a positive impact on each ecosystem are profiled. Outstanding examples include Ada Blackjack, an Alaskan Iñupiat who survived alone on an Arctic island for two years; Rue Mapp, founder of Outdoor Afro, which provides opportunities for Black Americans to explore the outdoors; and Bob Coomber, the first person in a wheelchair to summit a 14,000-foot mountain. The book includes websites and a bibliography and index (both not seen). The stewardship suggestions, while not necessarily unique, are easily achievable, and the activities are fun (create a rain-forest biome or frozen time capsule). An entertaining and educational book for environmentally conscious nature lovers that will inspire action. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 07/01/2021 Gr 3 Up—Young people interested in conservation and climate activism or merely getting closer to nature will find much to expand their knowledge here. The book describes nine habitats such as forests, mountains, deserts, cities, and freshwater. Each chapter is patterned the same way with an introduction, fast facts, two biographies, a natural wonder, a field trip, an environmental success story, a DIY project, and stewardship suggestions. The chapters can be read independently and out of order. The biographies are a strong part of each chapter. The women, men, and children profiled are an international group who have positively impacted the environment. Many were first in their field, such as Junko Tabei, the first woman to summit Mount Everest, while others are responsible for national and international legislation and protections, such as Minerva Hamilton Hoyt, who advocated for the creation of California's Joshua Tree National Monument. All invite further investigation. The DIY projects have clear instructions and can be completed at different levels. The environmental success stories offer some optimism with victories for the natural world (mountain gorilla protections; Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve). Orlando's full-color drawings beautifully capture all the important aspects of each chapter. Back matter includes websites, a bibliography, and index. VERDICT This accessible guide offers a good balance of detailed information with engaging activities and calls to action. It could be used successfully in STEAM, outdoor classroom, or environmental science units. A strong choice to inspire young changemakers for our planet.—Elisabeth LeBris, Kenilworth SD 38, Winnetka, IL - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.