Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 10/01/2014 K-Gr 2—Recounting a story from his childhood, Rocco sets this picture book during the "Blizzard of '78." At first, young John is ecstatic about the snow; he gets to stay home from school and play outside all day. But as the snow continues to pile up and the food in his house starts to run out, he and his family start to worry. Since he is the only one light enough to walk on top of the snow, he ties tennis rackets to his feet and sets out, walking to the nearest store, comically stopping along the way to help neighbors or to play. He then returns home with groceries for his family and neighbors; soon after the snowplows finally arrive, returning life back to normal. The simple text will be easily accessible to a young audience, and children will enjoy the message that even kids can be heroes in a time of a crisis. Rocco's artwork is as stellar as always; paint-splattered snow give an extra layer of detail to Rocco's already vividly textured backgrounds. The white negative space around some of his images effectively portrays the vastness of the snowstorm in a minimalist way, and the warm, cozy interiors are a lovely contrast. Great for storytime on a cold night.—Peter Blenski, Greenfield Public Library, WI - Copyright 2014 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 12/01/2014 *Starred Review* In this story, drawn from an incident in Rocco’s childhood, the title says it all. Snow begins falling—and falling. At first it’s all fun and games and hot chocolate (made with milk). By the fourth day, though, the snowplows still haven’t arrived, the food is running out, and now the hot chocolate is made with water. But walking to the store doesn’t seem possible—unless you are light enough to use tennis rackets as snowshoes. So, tugging his sled, the young narrator sets out. A wonderful four-page pullout spread shows an eagle-eye view of the neighborhood, with tracks marking his journey to the store. There he buys supplies for his family and neighbors. In the evening, the hot chocolate will once again be made with milk—and the next day, the snowplows arrive. The story is an adventure, but the fun comes from Rocco’s pencil, watercolor, and digital art. Its retro look and unusual vantage points show up well on the wide expanses of white. Readers will also like that this really happened to Rocco—and there’s a snapshot to prove it! - Copyright 2014 Booklist.

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