Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 06/01/2018 Gr 3–5—King Tutankhamun is a popular pharaoh despite having such a short reign—and most students are endlessly fascinated with the Boy King. Cleveland-Peck does a fine job of laying out information for younger readers. The text is formatted in either short paragraphs or captions beneath pictures. The language is easy to read and somewhat conversational, making this a book to hand to those who might not be the biggest fans of history or research. The cartoon illustrations are well done and add to the appeal. While the information presented is not new and could be found elsewhere, this book would be beneficial as a reference for readers uninterested in longer, denser biographies. VERDICT A supplemental purchase for nonfiction collections in need of shorter selections.—Paige Garrison, The Davis Academy, Sandy Springs, GA - Copyright 2018 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 08/01/2018 Ancient Egyptian history is a complex thing, but Cleveland-Peck admirably distills the events surrounding the life, death, and discovery of the pharaoh Tutankhamun. Assisting this endeavor are large-scale, four-color cartoon illustrations that often mimic the style of ancient Egyptian artwork. An opening spread introduces key players in Tut’s tale, via an identifying “headshot.” The text begins with the unrest of Tutankhamun’s father, Akhenaten, caused by enforcing a new religion, and how the young king stabilized the land. An overview of his life and brief rule follow and include an excellent breakdown of the mummification process. Part Two, the lengthiest section of the book, is devoted to Howard Carter’s 1922 discovery of Tut’s tomb and an inventory of its contents. The text highlights evidence of the pharaoh’s hasty burial and theories pertaining to the cause of his death. The final section addresses unanswered questions and ways in which modern science continues to shed light on this mysterious figure in history. This well-balanced, engaging book is a great entry into studies of the boy king. - Copyright 2018 Booklist.