Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 02/01/2020 Gr 1–4—Wessels's picture book biography introduces video game fans to the pioneer behind the technology. Ralph Baer (1922–2014) began tinkering with electronics as a Jewish child surviving in Nazi-controlled Germany. After his family emigrated to the United States in 1938, Baer continued learning, building, and inventing, eventually working for NASA. Baer's interest in the newly invented television set planted a seed in his mind—what if games could be played on the television itself? The result was the Brown Box, the first home game console later released as the Magnavox Odyssey in 1972. The narrative focuses on Baer's career trajectory and his inventions, with little attention paid to his personal life. The creator's effort and commitment to bringing his ideas to fruition is abundant throughout the story, as is the reality of experiencing rejection from critics and disbelievers. Illustrator Castro provides colorful depictions of Baer and his inventions, skillfully representing each era's clothing, hairstyles, and decor. The book can be a starting point for social studies units involving historical events and specific eras. VERDICT A gentle introduction to a passionate inventor's incredible impact on our culture. Young gamers will get a kick out of their beloved systems' humble beginnings.—Casey O'Leary, Meredith Nicholson School 96, IN - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 02/15/2020 Ralph Baer grew up in Cologne, Germany, playing games with his friends, but after Hitler rose to power, it was no longer safe for Jewish families like Ralph’s, who soon immigrated to the U.S. Ralph’s love for games and tinkering followed him throughout his life, and saw him doing everything from building radios out of spare parts in the army to pursuing an education in technology and going on to design televisions and games. Among Ralph’s many creations was the Brown Box, the first system that allowed people to play video games on their televisions. Bright—though generic—illustrations frame Ralph’s facial expressions, depicting his emotions and providing insight into his life by tracking every stage of his career path. Wessels’ clear, flowing text provides a bounty of information on Ralph’s life, inspiration, and thought process, detailing his contagious excitement and thoughtful perseverance. A nice portrait of a lesser-known inventor whose work has had a tremendous influence on our modern-day world. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.