Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 03/01/2024 Gr 4 Up—Dale Donavan loves comics and video games, and he imagines a future where he can turn his creativity into a job that he would actually enjoy. But many of the grown-ups in Dale's life keep telling him that he needs to focus more on "important" subjects like math and science if he wants to get a good job and make money. When Dale has the idea to start an after-school art club, he meets resistance every step of the way. But the creation of the art club means new friends and new allies for Dale, and these creative students are determined to prove that you don't have to be starving to be an artist. This story is filled with different kinds of tension that will keep readers hooked: rocky friendships, family problems, artists trying to prove themselves, and the struggle between creativity and financial security. Since this graphic novel is about art and artists, it's also a colorful treat for the eyes as the art club kids learn about different visual styles and ways to create art, from painting and sculpture all the way to game design. VERDICT For readers who enjoy realistic fiction about school and friendship, and for creative kids who want to incorporate art into their futures.—Andrea Lipinski - Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.