Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 01/01/2020 Gr 3–5—Abigail Adams is depicted as a colonial powerhouse in this admiring, fact-filled picture book biography. She defied expectations right away—by surviving birth. Typical of girls of her era, she learned how to execute domestic chores but received no formal schooling; she devoured her father's library and eavesdropped on adults' conversations. She defied societal expectations that she marry for money rather than love and became the wife of country lawyer John Adams. The like-minded pair eventually moved to Boston, where they raised four children. When her husband traveled to Philadelphia to debate independence, Adams managed the household and engaged in their now-legendary correspondence that supplied him with valuable information and wise counsel, including her famous "Remember the Ladies" admonition. When the American Revolution ended, Adams sailed to Europe to be reunited with her husband, who had been appointed as America's new ambassador. Years later, when he was elected the second president of the United States, she became his most trusted adviser. Back matter features informative author's and illustrator's notes and a bibliography. Thumbnail portraits of 12 renowned women who fought for equality and women's rights, including Susan B. Anthony and Coretta Scott King, exemplify how Adams "left the hope of freedom to America's women." Appealing visual elements include expressive illustrations enhanced by cross-stitch-sampler designs in patriotic colors throughout and on endpapers. VERDICT Highly recommended for public and school collections. Use in American history, women's studies, and biography units.—Carol Goldman, formerly at Queens Library, NY - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 03/01/2020 Rosenstock (Through the Window, 2018) presents the story of an outspoken founding mother in this rollicking primer on the life of Abigail Adams, the second First Lady of the U.S. From a young age, Adams defied expectations of what was “appropriate” for women in the late eighteenth century. While the Revolutionary War was in full swing, she often provided intelligence on military movements. When her husband became involved in politics, she ran the farm and household alone, edited speeches, and entertained foreign dignitaries. Through lively text, the author showcases the ways Adams was ahead of her time. The refrain, “Leave it to Abigail,” adds a rhythm to the narrative, making this a good choice to read aloud. Baddeley (I Dissent, 2016) adds humor and panache with her pencil-and-ink illustrations, adding an authentic feel through lovely cross-stitch finishing touches. Author and artist’s notes accompany the text, giving more details and describing the impact the subject had on the modern role of women in leadership. A great selection for Women’s History Month and Presidents’ Day displays. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.