Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 01/01/2023 Gr 1–5—This book breaks being human down into chapterlike sections, each of which begins with a bold face sentence. "You are" a living thing, someone's child, an animal, a body of water, an astronaut, a sponge, a friend, under construction, a mystery, one-of-a-kind, a miracle, a story. The chapters range from a single spread to several pages long and clearly and efficiently cover a lot of ground without being heavy-handed or didactic. They dispense facts ("More than half of you is made from water"), speculate ("Where will you live?"), and give advice ("Tell your story to others. Then listen to theirs"). The illustrations, featuring people with a variety of skin tones and abilities, enhance the text with lively scenes in various styles that will keep readers engaged. It would pair beautifully with Howard Schwartz's All You Need. VERDICT This delightful primer on being human is a mix of facts, speculation, and advice which is not to be missed. It will definitely get kids and adults alike thinking about what it means to be them in this world both now and in the future.—Catherine Callegari - Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 02/15/2023 *Starred Review* Renowned author and poet Raczka is back with this stunning exploration of the interconnection between us and the world. In lyrical lines, he describes what humans are and do in straightforward terms—“You are someone’s child”; “You breathe. // You eat. // You sleep.” We are all living beings who have our own thoughts, memories, and experiences that make up our unique stories. But as the book progresses, Raczka provides metaphorical perspectives on what makes us individuals, referring to readers as astronauts voyaging through the galaxy, mysteries with an unwritten future, and sponges ready to absorb information. There is emphasis on the idea that our stories are ongoing and we are the only ones with the power to decide where our story takes us next. As readers grow and learn, they are reminded not only to share these stories but to listen to others as well. With lively illustrations by Kristen and Kevin Howdeshell, using powerful visual metaphors in an inviting, playful style, the universal beauty of life is perfectly captured and harmonizes well with the inspiring text. This empowering and evocative title makes for a delightful read-aloud and is a great pick for those who enjoyed All around Us (2017), by Xelena González, and Be a Tree! (2021), by Maria Gianferrari. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.