Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 03/28/2025 K-Gr 3—Readers follow Nasir and Imani as they join their grandma and immerse themselves in famous people and times in Black history. This book has a unique storytelling style as it juxtaposes historical stock images with modern photographs enhanced with the Bethencourts' signature style. Grandma briefly explains the historical image: "these are the Tuskegee Airmen…they were the first Black pilots in the U.S. military. Because they couldn't mix with white pilots, they formed their own unit and helped America win World War II." The children don similar clothing and hairstyles to the images presented. The throughline of the book is to highlight these historical figures and events while also encouraging readers to find the greatness in themselves through various statements: upon hearing the story of Colin Kaepernick, "Nasir imagined how passionate you had to be to risk everything and speak up for what's right." The content and events included are briefly told, allowing readers to understand the significance of the historical relevance without going into depth on every figure. Back matter includes more information for readers curious to dive a little deeper. VERDICT A creative and engaging look at Black history that will draw kids in to learn more. A must-purchase for all libraries.—Katherine Kefi - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 11/01/2024 Nasir and Imani love spending time with Grandma, who loves sharing old photos with them. Years ago, she received a special album from her mother, who said, “This is what greatness looks like.” Each page features a photo of a person or a group of people significant in Black history. From Bessie Coleman to the Tuskegee Airmen, from Katherine Johnson to Colin Kaepernick, Grandma talks about the people in the photos. Giving the kids access to her vintage clothing and costume collection, she also encourages them to dress like the people pictured. Now the magic begins. As each page turns, the grandchildren feel like they're inside the photos, representing the featured people and knowing that they, too, have the potential for greatness. While Grandma’s summaries of significant figures in Black history are relatively brief, additional information can be found in the back matter. The book’s most memorable elements are the Bethencourts’ striking color photos of Nasir and Imani portraying notable figures from the past. Created within a fictional framework, here’s a handsome, creative introduction to greatness in Black history. - Copyright 2024 Booklist.