Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 05/01/2019 Gr 3–5—From inventions to conspiracy theories to ancient temples, this series covers a wide variety of topics that don't seem particularly cohesive. Layouts are filled with period photographs and interesting sidebars, but from book to book, the writing proves to be uneven and choppy. For example, the profiles of Forgotten Americans Who Made History are broad overviews rather than detailed historical reconstructions. History's Conspiracy Theories fails to offer a satisfactory introduction and goes on to detail controversial and factually incorrect stances (i.e., that President Obama was not born in the U.S.) without providing deeper context and counterpoints for young readers. The rest of the series offers some interesting glimpses into historical events that are often left out of conventional texts. VERDICT Despite its shortcomings, much of this series is interesting and accessible, and some of the unconventional topics are a welcome addition. Pick and choose with care. - Copyright 2019 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.