Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 09/01/2021 Gr 2–5—This picture book biography is a heroine's journey from slavery to freedom. Elizabeth "Lizzy" Hobbs Keckly (1818–1907) was born into slavery in Virginia. She learned to read, write, and sew from her mother, amidst the brutality and sorrow of slavery. Lizzy became an accomplished seamstress and her skills enabled her to support herself and even buy her own freedom after 37 years of slavery. She established her own dress shop as a free woman and acquired high-profile clients, becoming First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln's dressmaker. Quotes from Lizzy's autobiography are scattered throughout the narrative, and are given a powerful presence on the page through the skillful use of text and font styles. Repetitive phrasing highlights the connection of her livelihood to her freedom. Readers can find out more about Lizzy's accomplishments, such as creating opportunities and associations for other African American women and children, in the author's notes, time line, and bibliography in the back matter. The illustrations are a remarkable collage of painted scenes that are combined with decorative paper, fabric, lace, ribbon, braid trim, and intricate embroidery. This creates a three-dimensional presentation that brings to life the creativity and craftsmanship of Lizzy's dresses. VERDICT A title that stitches together the journey of a determined and resilient heroine from the past. An essential purchase that will strengthen all biography collections.—Rita Christensen, Orem P.L., UT - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 11/01/2021 Born into slavery, Elizabeth Keckly worked hard from childhood onward, first under those who enslaved her and later to provide for her family. As a skilled seamstress in St. Louis, she was able to buy freedom for herself and her son after borrowing the money from loyal clients. In 1860, after moving to Washington, DC, she designed and made dresses for the wives of the political elite. Mary Todd Lincoln became a close friend over the next few years, when each was stricken by the death of a son and President Lincoln was assassinated as well. Keckly later wrote a memoir, but she died in poverty. In this picture book, the use of italics indicates quotes from Keckly’s memoir and differentiates them from Schofield-Morrison’s words. The interplay works well, offering Keckly’s viewpoint within an account that speaks to children today. Created with mixed media, including oil paint, paper, textured fabric, ribbon, appliqué, embroidery, and lace, Zunon’s handsome illustrations suggest the subject's times as well as her talents. A fitting introduction to a remarkable woman. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.