Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 02/15/2021 In the face of constant derision from male peers, Vera Rubin persevered to become one of the most important contributors to modern astronomy. Nickel tracks the scientist’s burgeoning interest over the course of her life, beginning with childhood, when an 11-year-old Rubin became fascinated with the night sky. Later, she enrolled at Vassar as the only astronomy major in her class. When she began to wonder if the galaxies all orbited a center point in the universe, she put forth the theory to scoffing male audiences. Though discouraged, Rubin kept teaching and researching, not only confirming her theories but also realizing they provided evidence for the existence of dark matter. The text does a wonderful job of introducing not only Rubin but also the fascinating science she studied. Dreamy watercolor, ink, and charcoal illustrations poignantly compare her years of scientific toil on the outskirts of the astronomy community to the way a lonely star might turn on the edges of the galaxies that Rubin so loved to study. A truly beautiful story of perseverance and passion. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 03/01/2021 Gr 2–6—Vera Rubin (1928–2016), an American astronomer born in Philadelphia and the daughter of Jewish immigrants, broke new ground in the topic of dark matter. Nickel's picture book chronicles Rubin's journey, showcasing her childhood fascination with the stars, her perseverance to overcome sexism in the scientific community, and her discoveries that set the stage for ongoing research today. Sicuro's watercolor, ink, and charcoal illustrations depict the characters in mid-century clothing and allow the cosmos to soar. Readers will be inspired by the vastness of the universe as they learn about Rubin's discoveries. She is portrayed as a warm and loving mother and wife who marveled at the wonders of the night sky. As with many picture book biographies, the text emphasizes Rubin's strength of character rather than relaying in-depth details about every aspect of her life. An author's note and a time line provide more clarity. Further explanation about dark matter in the main text could have helped readers' comprehension. This title would work well in classroom lessons focused on astronomy topics, and it provides an excellent representation of women in science. VERDICT A strong addition to youth biography collections, especially where STEM fields are emphasized.—Kelly Jahng, South Park Elem. Sch., IL - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.