Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 09/01/2015 Gr 4–8—A playfully engaging skeleton emcee introduces the parts of the body and their systems as part of an informational stage revue in this clever overview of human biology. Panels, word balloons, and cartoon illustrations provide strong visuals, while each chapter covers a different biological system in a logical, well-organized fashion, with an initial overview that leads into more specific details—though the lack of an index makes this less effective as a source for reports. The skeleton interjects context, makes connections to previously mentioned facts, and establishes a lighthearted tone. The cast of characters includes walking, talking, and sometimes wisecracking body parts, as well as food, viruses, blood cells, and other body-related items, which inject humor as they interact with the skeleton host. The food particle who wishes for a parachute as it exits the rectum, for instance, is funny but also accurately demonstrates this bodily function. The jokes never become too frantic and are always relevant. The skeleton also presents pertinent tips about safety, nutrition, and puberty. While the human body has been covered in sequential art format before, this title does an excellent job of balancing the comedy and the facts while offering a comprehensive look at how body parts work on their own and as part of the whole biological system. VERDICT A delightful and enlightening addition to nonfiction graphic novel collections.—Steven Engelfried, Wilsonville Public Library, OR - Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 09/15/2015 *Starred Review* Cartoonish atoms, molecules, cells, bacteria, organs, and other elements explain their forms and functions in this friendly, accessible graphic-novel guide to the human body. A jaunty skeleton emcees the performance, which is divided into 11 acts, one for each major system. Wicks provides a detailed, well-labeled diagram for each one, and while they are simplified images, they are realistic enough that the most important components are clearly delineated. The respiratory system, for example, opens with a diagram of the lungs and bronchial tubes, which also zooms in on bronchioles and alveoli. But this is no dry manual! Wicks includes plenty of slapstick antics among the animated body parts, and some well-timed, occasionally groan-inducing jokes, which are sure to keep kids engaged. While the chapter on the digestive system is thorough and informative, for instance, it’s also peppered with body humor (of course). After waxing sympathetic on the terrors of puberty, the chapter on the reproductive system, meanwhile, manages to cover conception and birth, while sidestepping sex. Wicks’ playful cartoon artwork in saturated colors makes the potentially daunting and embarrassing subject of anatomy approachable and fun, but never at the expense of accuracy or clarity. This informative, frank exploration of the body perfectly balances science and silliness. - Copyright 2015 Booklist.