Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 08/01/2021 PreS-K—As leaf-eating creepy-crawlies, these two best friends naturally love all the same things. Both have many legs, spots, and love to chew leaves into funny shapes. Ornately and uniquely decorated, the pair undergo their metamorphosis inside cheerfully decorated pupas. Weeks later, Moth and Butterfly emerge with fewer legs, antennae, and wings. They fall right into the groove of their former friendship but notice some cumbersome differences. Moth likes to stay out all night. Butterfly is graceful in flight, but Moth cannot stop bumping into things. Will their friendship endure? Whimsical, silly illustrations use bold colors to make this garden paradise really pop. The fast-paced story uses minimal text and a light-hearted narrative to capture the attention of preschoolers. There is not a wealth of content here, but lessons about the natural world and friendship in the face of differences flourish. VERDICT This basic, colorful introduction to metamorphosis and friendship for the youngest of preschoolers is a recommended purchase.—Richelle Rose, Kenton County P.L., KY - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 11/01/2021 Two caterpillar chums spend an idyllic day together, showing off “cool moves” and munching leaves into funny shapes. But there is change on the horizon: a nearby butterfly cheerfully wishes them a happy metamorphosis, and the bug buddies turn into cozy cocoons. When they emerge with a great “POP!”, one is a brightly colored butterfly and the other is a more subtly hued moth. They realize that there are now a few differences between them, both physically and behaviorally: they’re active at different times, their antennae take different forms, and they have decidedly different flight patterns. Not to worry—they still enjoy each other’s company and showing off those cool moves! The seemingly simple story cleverly gets some key characteristics (and the concept of metamorphosis) across while reassuring young readers that burgeoning differences don’t have to doom a relationship. The splashy illustrations are animated and amusing, capturing caterpillar expressions and moth movements in colorful detail. It’s a sweet and snazzy celebration of the natural world and the bonds of friendship. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.