Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 03/01/2018 K-Gr 4—In this unique picture book biography of the late folk musician and activist, the text is written as lyrics to a ballad. Decemberists singer/songwriter Meloy, author of the "Wildwood" series, writes of the musical legend in a style similar to Seeger's own rambling verse. In the manner of a tall tale he is described as a "Hammer bringer! River singer! Sailing soldier, lean bell ringer." While much of the text flows smoothly in this lyrical style, there are a few forced-rhymes, as well as moments where it feels more Seussian than folk song. McClure's artwork complements the subject with her signature style of impeccable and fluid cut paper. The vignettes capture Seeger's likeness and character, and are based on historical photographs and film. The cut paper is nearly all black and white; the only color is a mustard-gold that serves as the titular thread weaving its way through the illustrations as a representation of music and often containing written song lyrics. This title covers much of Seeger's long life, including his activism, musical career, blacklisting, and family. However, because of the limitations of 48 pages written in rhyming stanzas, Meloy does not go into great detail, making the book better for casual reading than information-gathering. (The reference to Goodnight Irene in the main text doesn't mention that this song was originally written by Lead Belly, though he is referenced in the illustrations, and referred to in the time line.) Additionally, while the back matter lists extensive recommended listening, no further reading is included, the bibliography only referring to two adult biographies. VERDICT This thoughtful and exquisitely-illustrated tribute to Pete Seeger comes on the tails of two more comprehensive picture book biographies, Leda Schubert's Listen and Susanna Reich's Stand Up and Sing. Purchase for larger collections or where Pete Seeger is a popular subject.—Clara Hendricks, Cambridge Public Library, MA - Copyright 2018 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 04/01/2018 Meloy’s ode to Pete Seeger celebrates his life as a performer, songwriter, union organizer, civil rights advocate, ship builder, sailor, carpenter, and environmentalist. He chronicles Seeger’s life through the “golden thread” of his voice, citing his lyrics throughout the jaunty, rhyming text. As a young man, Seeger performed with his family (“Go Tell Aunt Rhody”); during WWII, he cheered soldiers with his banjo playing; and he reworked a labor movement song into the inspiring “We Shall Overcome.” For the Weavers, he popularized “Goodnight, Irene,” and he celebrated the seasons (“Turn, Turn, Turn”) until age 94. McClure’s distinctive artwork employs black and gold layers of intricately cut paper, depicting scenes from Seeger’s life and linking to his lyrics. Her work resembles woodcuts, complementing the folkloric style of the text. Although Seeger’s “Oh, Had I a Golden Thread” is quoted but never fully explained, and his lyrics appear without attribution in the art, this makes a good introduction to Seeger and his many contributions to American music. A Recommended Listening list and time line are appended. - Copyright 2018 Booklist.