Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 01/01/2021 Gr 7 Up—Grimes spotlights the work of lesser-known Black women poets of the Harlem Renaissance. The book begins with an explanation of the Harlem Renaissance and Golden Shovel poems. The collection is divided into three parts: "Heritage," "Earth Mother," and "Taking Notice." Golden Shovel poetry uses "a short poem in its entirety, or a line from the poem, called a striking line." The poem or striking line is then used "to create a new poem using the words from the original." Most of Grimes's poems incorporate lines of text or the entirety of a short poem into each verse. The text of the featured poet, which is used to create the new poem, is highlighted in bold type. The juxtaposition of Grimes's poetry and the original works provide a compelling reflection on gender, race, politics, and everyday life. Full-page, vibrant illustrations rendered by a variety of artists are included throughout, such as a woman whose head is a volcano for Lucy Ariel Williams's "Prelude" and "Slow Burn" by Grimes. Educators should note that the poem "Flag Salute" by Esther Popel describes lynching. Back matter includes brief biographies of the poets and artists, an index, and a list of sources. VERDICT A striking collection of voices, who examine and celebrate the experience of Black women from the past and present. An excellent introduction to Black women writers who were ignored by history.—Tamara Saarinen, Pierce County Lib., WA - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 12/01/2020 *Starred Review* This collection of golden shovel poems, a form that takes a striking line from one poem and uses it to create a new poem, builds on the work of women poets during the Harlem Renaissance. As the title suggests, Grimes builds on the legacy of oft unsung voices, such as Alice Dunbar-Nelson, Mae V. Cowdery, and Angelina Weld Grimké, in a three-part exploration of heritage, the Earth, and visibility. There is much to chew on here as readers take in each poem and contemplate the relationship between the originals and Grimes’ own remarkable takes on each work. Adding more depth to this collection, each poem is amplified in its message with illustrations from artists such as Vashti Harrison and Laura Freeman. With a wide array of mediums from highly textured collage work to digital watercolors, the art here is unified in its emphasis on portraying the beauty and uniqueness of Black girls and women. Included at the end is a resources section that offers poet and artist biographies to deepen readers' connections with the works. Whether you read this collection in full or in part or use it as a springboard for your own shot at some golden shovel poetry, this unique title is sure to spark thought and touch hearts. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.