Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 10/01/2015 Gr 3–5—Frederick Douglass's journey from slavery to international renown as writer and lecturer is broadly sketched here. Readers meet Douglass eye to eye as he gazes, serious and frowning, from a commanding portrait filling the entire front cover of the large square picture book. An unusual design choice places the title and creator names in bold text on the back cover. The poignant childhood years, some enjoyed and others endured, make for a touching, memorable story. About a third of the work is devoted to Douglass's adulthood. Emphasizing his role as a man of words, Rappaport includes frequent quotations. She focuses on Douglass's oratory and writing accomplishments but tells almost nothing of the man's personal life. In a rare specific example when she does, readers learn that Douglass's friends bought his freedom for $710.96. He went on to lecture in Great Britain and Ireland, started a newspaper, became friendly with Abraham Lincoln, and was involved with the Underground Railroad. Although the book features a concluding list of "Important Dates," Rappaport often neglects to mention where and when key events occurred: overall, this is a quick introduction accompanied by some striking visuals. Ladd casts a sepia glow in handsome scenes of key figures, and his illustrator's note adds a fun light on his painting of them. The many existing children's books about Douglass include works by well-known writers, some of which are included in the "Selected Research Sources" section. VERDICT Eloquent in part—though a bit skimpy, too—this is an attractive and versatile package.—Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston - Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 10/15/2015 Frederick Douglass’ piercing eyes stare directly from the cover of Frederick’s Journey as if to alert readers that the story they are about to share is intense. Indeed, Rappaport and Ladd sugarcoat nothing about the abuse, cruelty, and coldness of the institution of slavery, which determined young Frederick’s early life. The book opens bluntly with these words: “Frederick was taken from his mother when he was a baby. . . . Only five times did he feel her loving arms around him.” The accompanying picture depicts his mother, arms reaching, agony stretched across her face. From there, the story speeds forward through boyhood and manhood, touching on marriage, freedom, exile, and activism. There are a few chronological gaps that might prompt readers to do their own research, and quotations from Douglass’ autobiography give the narrative heft. This true story of determination and courage despite all odds concludes appropriately with Douglass’ own words: “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” A message worth heeding. - Copyright 2015 Booklist.