Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 12/01/2015 Gr 3–6—A beautifully designed guide to keeping a nature journal. Morris provides examples of different activities that children might want to use their journals for, such as keeping a moon and cloud log, drawing birds from the forest and swamplands, and leaf pressing. Gentle illustrations, rendered in pen, pencil charcoal, crayon, and watercolor, take center stage, with brief bits of text describing what might be found in different locations. Directions are also simple; information on keeping tadpoles to observe their metamorphosis, for example, is limited to one paragraph, with little detail on how to find, raise, and house them. Nor is there clear guidance on how readers should draw what they see; the illustrations are more inspirational than instructive. In keeping with the hand-produced theme, there is different lettering for each of the headings. While most of the flora and fauna mentioned here are from New Zealand, there are also a number of plants and creatures common in Europe and North America. Though a title on nature journals might be a useful addition, most North American children may overlook this one because of the emphasis on New Zealand. VERDICT While this charming work is attractive and inspirational, it may not find its intended audience in every library.—Michelle Anderson, Tauranga City Libraries, New Zealand - Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 12/01/2015 In this nature journal, Morris, a native of New Zealand, combines her love for her country’s natural world with suggestions for young naturalists to create their own journals. Just as her journal reflects New Zealand’s flora and fauna, children are encouraged to record the native plants and animals encountered in their own lives. In the introduction, Morris identifies parts of a bird and a flower, sketches important materials and tools for nature observers, and illustrates the creative use of fonts and color. Next she takes readers on a visual and textual trip through a garden, a beach, the sky, and more—each described and sketched or painted in delicate detail. Text boxes “taped” to the page offer tips, such as how to arrange and sketch seed pods or do leaf rubbings. The New Zealand focus could limit appeal, but the sound journaling principles have a universal quality. As much an exercise in artistic expression as naturalistic observation, Morris’ lovely guide encourages kids to explore and appreciate the world around them. - Copyright 2015 Booklist.