Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 02/01/2025 Gr 1–4—In this short introduction to the 14th-century poet Rumi, the author concentrates primarily on his childhood immigration to an unknown location. While traveling, Rumi learns life lessons from his parents to be generous, positive, to make his own joy, and persevere through hard times. These lessons helped him grow into a celebrated poet still read and inspiring people hundreds of years later. Illustrations use light effectively to create a mystical atmosphere with Rumi often shown bathed in light, highlighting his gifts. Persian-influenced landscapes and animals give a sense of place and expressive characters clearly depict the importance of the family unit. VERDICT A light introduction, intended to supplement other titles about Rumi.—Melisa Bailey - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Other - 03/03/2025 The young life of poet Rumi (1207-1273) is disrupted by the invasion of Genghis Khan’s army in this picture book history starring a boy known as Muhammad. Poetic prose by York describes the family’s escape, as Manouchehri depicts gathered horses and camels against dark gradients. Told no when asking about going back home, Muhammad observes that birds leave and return; his father advises that some birds "make homes wherever they go./ And they never stop singing." That hopefulness infuses the family’s story as they take comfort in their togetherness and music. When Muhammad finally settles into a new home with his parents, he comprehends that "friends-both feathered and human-/ were everywhere to be found." Stylized, nature-infused ink and acrylic full-page artwork radiates in tones as bright as Rumi’s much-beloved words. A creator’s note adds context about Rumi’s birth in Afghanistan’s "classical ‘borders,’ " Persian writing, and later life in Turkey. Ages 4-8. (Mar.) - Copyright 2025