Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 10/01/2023 K-Gr 3—Encapsulating the intricate beauty of nature's interconnectedness, here is an enchanting story that seamlessly blends mesmerizing storytelling with fascinating mixed-media illustrations. A first-person perspective invites readers to be both observers and dreamers. Crafted with a flowing narrative, the story includes a plethora of creatures, beginning and ending with a salamander that symbolizes nature's resilience. The theme of nature's connections plays out as the dreams cascade from one animal to another. As an octopus transforms into an elephant that morphs into a soaring falcon, readers witness the biomes of water, land, and air, thus showcasing the delicate balance of the Earth's diverse ecosystems. When a child with an animal-adorned blanket enters the tale, young readers will likely find a relatable connection, igniting their curiosity and creativity. The remarkable illustrations, created using a combination of paints, colored pencils, and crayons, are a visual joy, augmenting the narrative with innovative details. This versatile picture book can serve as a delightful bedtime story, an engaging introduction to an animal study unit, a catalyst for poetic exploration, or an inspiration for art classes. Its heartfelt message of the intrinsic value of every creature encourages empathy and a sense of responsibility for our planet. VERDICT A book that enchants, educates, and inspires; this timeless tale has the qualities of a classic in the making. Highly recommended for readers of all ages.—Lynne Stover - Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 09/01/2023 This soft-focus, gently rhythmic picture book offers another sensitively realized appreciation of animals in their natural world from New York Times best-selling author-illustrator Wenzel. The lulling voice of a first-person dreamer tells of being first a salamander, then becoming an octopus, next an elephant, and on to yet more creatures. The voice of “you” offers a beguiling call, pulling the dreamer on to adapt yet again, each change evolving organically as new characteristics unfurl in text and image. Using watercolor, pastels, and collage in a muted palette, Caldecott Honor Book creator Wenzel deepens this dreaming world with undulating compositions set in soft-edged panels. Early expansive moments exploring each animal’s world give way to briefer glimpses of ever-different creatures, each illuminated by a short expressive description with the refrain “there I was.” After his own playful tumble in the snow, the dreamer snuggles down to return to sleep’s “wild stillness.” In this poetic and transformative journey, both realistic and reassuring, young readers will find an informative yet lyrical introduction to the varied wonders of the natural world. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.