Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 08/01/2022 Nolen frames this inspirational picture-book biography of Toni Morrison around names and stories. Text in a regular font describes how the author was born Chloe Wofford and became Chloe Anthony Wofford when she converted to Catholicism, then Toni when her Howard University friends couldn’t pronounce her name, and finally, Toni Morrison when her editor placed it on her first novel. A larger, handwriting-like font stretches across the pages and tells another narrative in a conversational voice. Segments such as, “She was just a-listening, waiting, watching,” echo descriptions of Morrison’s writing path, the struggles of Black life that filled her stories, and her success as a Nobel Prize winner. Ransome’s watercolor-and-collage illustrations reflect Morrison’s personal accomplishments and the spirit of her novels. While some scenes charm with realism and others delight with magical elements, all, including a gorgeous gatefold with a chronological look at Morrison’s literary characters, inspire awe with their intricate detail. Although the biography doesn’t mention its subject’s death and lacks a time line, it includes other back matter (an author’s note, quotes, select achievements, etc.) for more advanced readers. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 12/23/2022 Gr 2–5—Toni Morrison was born Chloe Ardelia Wofford. At an early age she fell in love with words, melodies, stories, and the rhythm and rhyme of music. She went on to Howard University, where she changed her name to Toni because it was easier to pronounce. She eventually taught at Cornell and at her alma mater. There she met and married her husband. Soon after the birth of her second son, Morrison's marriage failed, and she moved to New York City for a fresh start as an editor. During the day she edited others' work; at night, after her children went to bed, she would write her own. At age 39, she published her first novel. Though the world knew her as Toni Morrison, she insisted that Chloe Wofford was the one who won the Nobel Prize for Literature, the first Black woman to do so. Her books often focused on Black history and motherhood, race, and skin color, and she sought to empower her people. Her stories inspired others to do the same. This lyrical biography about Morrison's accomplishments and legacy has a reverential tone, putting the groundbreaking author on a well-deserved pedestal. This title honors her memory and the sheer enormity of her life's work. A perfect complement, Ransome's painterly illustrations—done in watercolor and collage—shine with a beatific light. Remarks about her books and Morrison herself float in the background. Back matter includes an author's note, further reading, and a selected list of her awards and books published. VERDICT An awe-inspiring picture book biography about an outstanding storyteller.—Shelley M. Diaz - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.