Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 10/14/2022 PreS-Gr 2—This Sukkot story offers a unique view into a little-known community as they celebrate the Jewish harvest festival. Shoshi lives with her brothers and grandparents in the Abayudaya Jewish community in Uganda. Every year, the members of her community celebrate Sukkot by building the traditional sukkahs, or huts. They make them as beautiful as possible in the hopes of winning a contest. Villagers use their talents and resources to make each one special. One villager buys, rather than makes, the items that make his the fanciest. But when a storm goes through, it gets destroyed. The villagers come together to rebuild it, bringing items from their own sukkahs. When it wins, Shoshi declares that she is happy because they all won. The first-person text effectively explains the holiday and offers a window into this unique community, while simultaneously providing an engaging story that includes a gentle, nondidactic message. Shoshi is a well-rounded character; her experiences and feelings are universal and will speak to the audience. The brightly colored linocut-like illustrations have a slightly flat, naïve style that fits the setting, while the characters' large, expressive eyes and colorful clothing are appealing. Extensive back matter gives a view into both the history of the Abayudaya community and the Jewish holiday. VERDICT This unique title would be a welcome addition to any collection looking to broaden their offerings of sukkot books.—Amy Lilien-Harper - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 11/01/2022 In the Abayudaya Jewish community of Uganda, a girl and her siblings prepare for their favorite holiday: Sukkot. The weeklong harvest festival features a friendly competition to see who can construct and decorate the most beautiful sukkah (customary hut). Shoshi, a spirited child who likes being at the front of every race, is proud of her family’s efforts and wants to win. When a storm destroys a neighbor’s sukkah, the villagers generously, selflessly, and creatively rebuild together. Simply stated reflections capture true community spirit: “We can compete and still feel kindness toward each other.” With bold lines, bright colors, and dynamic patterns, Ethiopian Israeli artist Yogev’s striking linocuts vividly capture the flora and fauna of the African setting, including coffee and mango trees and a grazing goat. Informative endnotes provide a historical overview of the Abayudaya, a glossary, and lyrics to “Hinei Ma Tov—See How Good It Is” in Hebrew, Luganda, and English. A gracious and warm celebration of culture and cooperation. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.

Booklist - 11/01/2022 In the Abayudaya Jewish community of Uganda, a girl and her siblings prepare for their favorite holiday: Sukkot. The weeklong harvest festival features a friendly competition to see who can construct and decorate the most beautiful sukkah (customary hut). Shoshi, a spirited child who likes being at the front of every race, is proud of her family’s efforts and wants to win. When a storm destroys a neighbor’s sukkah, the villagers generously, selflessly, and creatively rebuild together. Simply stated reflections capture true community spirit: “We can compete and still feel kindness toward each other.” With bold lines, bright colors, and dynamic patterns, Ethiopian Israeli artist Yogev’s striking linocuts vividly capture the flora and fauna of the African setting, including coffee and mango trees and a grazing goat. Informative endnotes provide a historical overview of the Abayudaya, a glossary, and lyrics to “Hinei Ma Tov—See How Good It Is” in Hebrew, Luganda, and English. A gracious and warm celebration of culture and cooperation. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.