Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 03/15/2020 *Starred Review* With a thunderstorm threatening, the animals on the farm seek shelter in the barn. The darkening sky, heavy rain, and lashing wind are contrasted with the warm, yellow light spilling from the barn, which promises a haven from the elements. The building fills with the usual sheep, horses, pigs, and chickens, as well as a raccoon, squirrel, turtle, and skunk seeking respite from the torrential rain. When a mother fox comes looking for a dry spot for herself and her kits, though, the others tell her, “Go away! We’re full today!” It takes one of the smallest critters in the barn to show empathy and literally reach out toward the fox and her family. The group’s world expands when they recognize how needlessly fearful and selfish they’re being in not sharing their safe, secure refuge. Lovely illustrations using acrylic paints, oil paints, and gel medium create charming images of the vast array of animals that get along harmoniously in the small space. The tale is told in short rhyming couplets that, along with the appealing pictures, present a sense of unity among the diverse barn population. Here is a gentle tale of inclusion and fairness that children will clearly understand. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.

Booklist - 03/15/2020 - Copyright 2020 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 05/01/2020 PreS-Gr 1— A severe rainstorm lures a series of different animals, big and small, together for shelter in a barn. The fox family is initially shunned, as all the animals yell: "Go away! We're full today!" A lone duck, however, is brave and compassionate enough to approach them, demonstrating that to "learn and show together we grow" is the best approach. Ultimately, with acceptance, teamwork, and sharing during a catastrophe, "there is room for all." Vaught's spare, meticulous rhyming text perfectly complements Murphy's eye-catching illustrations, which begin with a striking blue sky severed by jagged white lines for lightning. The lone duck is illuminated in bright yellow-a positive touch about the enlightening power of kindness and compassion in the midst of gloomy dark danger. The phrase "together we grow" is a bit unclear compared to the more apt "love prevails" and "there is room for us all." Nonetheless, the overall message about working together effectively despite differences in times of need is a worthy lesson. VERDICT A truly inspiring picture book that will resonate with both children and adults.—Etta Anton, Yeshiva of Central Queens, NY - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.