Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 05/01/2022 Ralph, a dog, is enjoying a quiet stroll, complete with flowers, trees, and butterflies, when an egg suddenly cracks. Out steps a duckling, loudly calling, “Dad!” Unsure of what to do, Ralph ignores its cries and continues his walk, comforting himself that at least there’s only one hatchling following him. The illustrations reveal that there are dozens, probably more than 100. While mastering their mealtime, bath time, and bedtime routines, Ralph becomes fond of his flock. On a family walk, they encounter a drake, who thanks Ralph for looking after his ducklings and takes them home, after giving him the dozens of puppies in his care. But when each dad misses his original brood, they combine to form one big, happy family. The ducklings' antics and childlike comments in speech balloons provide much of the humor that makes this picture book fun for reading aloud. Reflecting the upbeat tone of the narrative, the mixed-media illustrations capture the joy as well as the chaos when Ralph gives up his quiet life for one that’s “full of cuddles.” - Copyright 2022 Booklist.