Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 04/01/2017 Gr 4–7—Blending history, geography, and culture, this volume explores 10 historic routes that have allowed people (and animals) to migrate, trade, and communicate over long distances. Most of the trails are still in use or have left extensive archaeological evidence as to their existence. Ancient paths such as Roman roads in Britain and Inca roads in South America are man-made engineering marvels that let their respective empires flourish. Other routes discussed include the Trans-Siberian Railroad, the iconic Route 66 in the United States, and the Khyber Pass in the Himalayas, all of which have facilitated the migrations of millions of people. The Silk Road, a hugely important trade route for centuries, is briefly mentioned in the chapter on the Khyber Pass but is otherwise curiously absent. Though additional notable paths are referenced in sidebars, the information provided is not substantial enough for reports, and the book may have trouble finding an audience. The illustrations, photos, and artwork add interest, but the lack of captions is unhelpful. VERDICT Though intriguing, this is not likely to fly off shelves. A marginal purchase for geography collections at best.—Lisa Crandall, formerly at the Capital Area District Library, Holt, MI - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 04/15/2017 “On the road again” gains significance in this book, which looks at the past through an interesting lens—10 roads, routes, and trails that impacted world history. Arranged chronologically, it begins with Beringia, the land route between Asia and Alaska that allowed early people to migrate into North America, and continues with some well-known routes, such as Roman roads in Britain, the U.S.’s famed Route 66, and the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Many of the routes, however, are lesser known yet equally important, including the Khyber Pass (once part of the Silk Road and now a site of hostilities between Afghanistan and Pakistan), the Trans-Siberian Railway, and the Serengeti Migration Trail (used by both animals and Maasai herders). Each chapter describes the route’s history, how it was built or forged, why it became important, related facts, and its current state. Brief, fictional stories introduce the 10 thoroughfares, which are further illustrated by descriptive maps, photographs, and reproductions. Browsing readers can dip in for discovery, while history buffs can make deeper connections. - Copyright 2017 Booklist.