Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 12/13/2024 Gr 2–4—Pincus's nonfiction picture book displays the importance of the animal-human connection. Walnut, the dancing White-naped crane, had been in and out of zoos her entire life. At 24 years of age, hope had been all but lost at the prospect of her accepting a mate and hatching any chicks. As a hatchling in Wisconsin, Walnut had imprinted on humans and therefore wanted nothing to do with other cranes; she identified as a human. This was a big problem, given that White-naped cranes were dwindling in the wild. Upon Walnut's arrival at the Smithsonian National Zoo, her keeper, Chris Crowe, developed a bond with her over two years. Over the duration of 11 years, Walnut laid seven eggs that successfully hatched. Readers' hearts will soar at the bond between Walnut and Crowe. Pictures depict Walnut at various stages of life and warmly demonstrate what patience and love can accomplish; these digitally rendered illustrations mimic watercolor. Well-paced and thoughtfully written, this book is certain to captivate readers across a broad age range. Additional material in the back contains further information about Walnut and cranes, as well as a Q&A with Crowe. VERDICT This outstanding book with great information is endearing as well, demonstrating the power of perseverance, love, and commitment. A first purchase wherever children flock.—Tracy Cronce - Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 10/15/2024 As a white-naped crane, Walnut was part of a dwindling species. The others in captivity were closely related, so it was important that she, whose parents had been wild, reproduce. Unfortunately, she had imprinted on a human early on in her life. In her mind, she was human too. When sent to zoos for mating, she lashed out at male cranes who approached her. She was sent to a zoo in Virginia, where Chris Crowe, the new crane keeper, took care of her. At first, Walnut was aggressive, but after years of patience and many treats, Crowe gained her trust. She sat quietly for injections, which enabled her to lay fertilized eggs, and she helped her species by raising seven chicks. Pincus’ telling of this true story is sympathetic to both Walnut and to Crowe, whose boyhood experience of seeing a bison inspired his career choice. O’Mara, a Scottish artist, illustrates the story with great warmth. The back matter offers further information on Walnut, crane species, and animal imprinting. A picture book with broad appeal. - Copyright 2024 Booklist.