Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 06/01/2024 There have been a number of recent picture books about volcanoes, and this offering from Scholastic does a great job of engaging kids as it explores volcanoes' majesty and mysteries, providing insights into basic earth science. There are two tracks of dialogue: one consists of brief, lyrical descriptions of earthquakes, eruptions, and lava flows (Oozing like thick, hot honey. Glowing taffy), and another offers paragraphs filling in more sophisticated but still accessible details (Lava leaves volcanoes in different ways. Gently flowing lava is called pahoehoe). The two-page spreads address different aspects: from shifting plates, eruptions, volcanologists, new land formation, and tsunamis to the wonders of the new life-forms encountered during deep-sea volcanic exploration and the more recent discoveries of extraterrestrial volcanoes. Full-page illustrations support and enhance the text, adding to the overall tone of respectful awe. Back matter includes author's and illustrator's notes, plus further reading suggestions. This slim selection serves well as introductory or supplemental material and should find a wide, enthusiastic audience. - Copyright 2024 Booklist.