Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 05/01/2022 Gr 1–3—The latest offering from "Animalographies" tells the story of Togo the sled dog. Togo was a mischievous puppy who grew to become the strong, smart lead in a team of sled dogs who transported various materials across Alaska during the early 1900s. However, Togo's most important delivery was the serum to save people from diphtheria in 1925. The 20 teams of 150 dogs had to run 674 treacherous miles in less than a week, before the serum expired, and Togo led the first leg of the relay. The informational picture book is told from Togo's perspective, in paragraph form with plenty of exclamation points, and includes little diary entries. Bright colorful illustrations fill the pages, and Togo's big blue eyes (which are humanlike and a bit peculiar) set him apart from all the other characters. The thrilling story, nearly 100 years old, should strike a chord in today's readers as memories of the COVID-19 vaccine are still fresh. While the title suggests that this is about Togo and Balto, it is undoubtedly Togo's story, with Balto a side character. Togo acknowledges that Balto received more attention for finishing the journey, but it is finally his turn to shine. Although back matter shares dog sled commands and why Siberian huskies were used, there are no resources listed, limiting this book's usefulness for reports. VERDICT Purchase where "Animalographies" are in demand.—Elissa Cooper - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 04/15/2022 Though the Animalographies picture-book series (2 new titles) uses fictionalized stories told from an animal’s perspective, it’s an effective vehicle for imparting factual information to young learners. Engaging first-person narration, with periodic diary entries, draws readers into accounts of remarkable animals throughout history. In these installments, the featured animals perform various jobs with humans, and their training is detailed along with an accounting of their accomplishments. Togo & Balto is narrated by huskie and sled leader Togo, who was part of a life-saving dogsled relay to transport much-needed diphtheria medicine to Nome, Alaska. Balto gained greater celebrity, however, as the dog that led the final sled in the relay to its ultimate destination. Sweet digital illustrations fill the pages with color, cute animals, and, in the case of Togo & Balto, dramatic landscapes. Each story concludes with a “Fact Sheet” that offers quick stats on the animal heroes plus interesting information that connects with the main story. Togo & Balto reveals why huskies make great sled dogs. A fun series that kids will enjoy. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.