Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 11/01/2015 At bedtime, Michael can’t find his favorite stuffed animal, Monkey Moon, even with his father’s help. They don jackets, boots, and hats before walking down the dark, quiet street to the park. Dad swings the boy onto his shoulders for a ride part of the way. At the park, Michael shines a flashlight and runs about searching as he calls out reassuring words to Monkey Moon. Losing hope, he kicks at a bush and suddenly sees his friend below. As they walk home, Michael swings the monkey onto his shoulders. In the beautifully worded text, Pulford suggests Michael’s feelings through his words to Monkey Moon and the strength of his parallel bonds with his father and his stuffie. Wilkinson’s illustrations, created with acrylics, are dark and subtle yet highly accessible. The park’s trees, benches, and sandbox equipment look a bit eerie in the dim light, but children will be delighted to point out Monkey Moon just before Michael finds him. A promising first picture book for Wilkinson and a satisfying read-aloud choice. - Copyright 2015 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 11/01/2015 PreS-Gr 1—A muted color palette and whimsical illustrations set the stage for Michael as he is getting ready for bed. Before bed, though, he must find his stuffed toy, Monkey Moon. He and his father look around the house but quickly realize that the toy must have been left in the park. They bundle up and walk in the cold and dark in search of Monkey Moon. Michael searches all around the park, calling out to Monkey Moon occasionally. Just when he is about to give up, he finds his beloved monkey, and he and his father walk home. The story is sweet and simple, and most children will be able to relate. VERDICT A nice addition to larger collections, but not a necessary one.—Emily E. Lazio, The Smithtown Special Library District, NY - Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.