Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 01/01/2021 This inviting picture book has a single theme, repeated with variations: while creative people are praised for their skills, the things they envision would never be realized without hard-working members of various trades, who turn those dreams into the real-world buildings, bridges, fountains, and amusement parks. Each example unfolds in three double-page spreads. The first focuses on the creator (architect, engineer, etc.). The next shows workers making the actual product, while the third depicts people enjoying it. Wheeler makes her points clearly in rhyming stanzas that read aloud effortlessly. The rhythm of the verses changes from fluid lines about the creative planners to shorter, more forceful phrases describing the builders. Using acrylics and colored pencils, Long offers a broad array of beautifully composed, colorful scenes. Children will enjoy finding the details repeated within each of the three stages depicted. Toward the end, the pictures show the writer and illustrator at work, the books being printed and packed, and finally, children hearing Someone Builds the Dream read aloud. A satisfying conclusion to an original picture book. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.