Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 03/01/2018 Gr 5–8—The award-winning nonfiction author brings to light the intriguing story of the beleaguered American chestnut tree. It was a staple of the forests, long-lived and large, with abundant tree nuts for wildlife—some lived up to 600 years and grew up to 100 feet tall. Walker briefly discusses how the Cherokee and the Iroquois used its leaves for medicine and the Lenape crafted its trunks for dugout canoes. Its wood is resistant to rot, and colonists and settlers also saw its enormous value. The author describes how a tiny fungus inadvertently introduced to the United States nearly decimated the entire American chestnut tree population across the nation. She ably integrates the human interest aspect of those involved in first spotting, identifying, and then developing approaches to solve the problem. The book reads much like a mystery, one that emphasizes the dire impact of an invasive species. VERDICT This fascinating and well-sourced tale will appeal to students interested in environmental issues, biology, and ecology. It could easily be integrated into science class units.—Gretchen Crowley, formerly at Alexandria City Public Libraries, VA - Copyright 2018 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 03/01/2018 When Hermann Merkel was hired in 1898 to be New York Zoological Park’s chief forester, the 1,500 American chestnut trees were his favorites. In 1904, Merkel noticed a blight that was quickly destroying these beloved trees, and by 1911, only 2 remained. Merkel’s observations were the start of a scientific mystery with ramifications that still continue. Walker documents some of the many scientists, from the beginning of the blight to today, who have worked to save this American icon. Why all the interest in a tree? The author first explains the importance of the American chestnut on the eastern forests’ environment. The bulk of the investigative text, however, concentrates on the source of the blight and three different approaches to saving the American chestnut. In the process, Walker shows how the comeback of this tree can serve as a model to restore other species. The niche subject may be a hard sell to recreational readers, but with additional photos of scientists in action, this STEM volume is a boon to life-science and engineering units. - Copyright 2018 Booklist.