Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 03/01/2020 Gr 2–6—This beautiful compendium of poems that celebrates the written word is a joy to share with young writers. The cleverly illustrated picture book contains 22 poems, all written in different styles and meters. There is sure to be a poem within these pages that appeals to every reader. "If I Were an Octopus" is a speculative quatrain that is surrounded by the colorful, undersea renderings of O'Rourke. "Ideas (like Peaches)" is simply magical in all aspects—the "ideas" growing on the tree glow like enormous, unique, sparkling jewels, and the verse itself encourages readers to gather supplies and begin their own adventure by "pick[ing] [an idea] like a peach." VanDerwater's "Revision Is…" will strike a chord with young writers as it is honest about how mixed-up the never-ending cycle of revision can make a writer feel…even though it can be "a little bit fun" too! Each poem celebrates parts of the writing process; the illustrations add depth to their meaning. O'Rourke even captures the spirit of the little sister in "My Little Sister Writes" by depicting the scene in a scratchy crayon picture, reminiscent of one done by the three-year-old subject. The poems could also be shared with and appeal to older, independent readers. This collection would be well used as a mentor text for poetry writing in the upper elementary grades. VERDICT While this may not be the flashiest book on the shelf, it is an exceedingly well-written and illustrated addition to any collection that serves young readers and writers.—Shannon O'Connor, Unami Middle School, Chalfont, PA - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 03/01/2020 This delightful poetry collection introduces young readers to a cornucopia of forms and processes, guiding aspiring writers through brainstorming, revision, editing, and sharing their work. VanDerwater includes different types of poems, from heroic couplets to chants to acrostic puzzles, inspiring budding poets to push past writer’s block and be confident in expressing their valuable thoughts. Alongside the upbeat, flowing verse are vibrant, whimsical illustrations from O’Rourke, whose inclusive artwork showcases a variety of children, animals, and other creatures enjoying reading and writing. This book teaches that writing is cultivated through process rather than instant gratification, that “plant[ing] a writing seed” is like inventing, composing, or molding—it takes time, effort, and care to create something new. The author also praises poetry as a form of imagination growth, travel, and self-exploration: the “words on the shelf / leading me deep / into books and myself.” From cheerful couplets to meditations and songs, this successfully champions its tagline, “Writing is for everyone.” - Copyright 2020 Booklist.