Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 05/24/2024 PreS-Gr 3—A shy bear expands his social circle with his friend's support in a coming-of-age tale brimming with subtle emotion. Best friends Randall, a bear, and Parker, a young girl, share every adventure. When Randall meets some new bears he thinks might be fun, he's scared to approach them. However, Parker encourages him. The bears have fun together and soon Randall spends more time with his new friends, facing a fundamental dilemma. To move on from Parker without betraying what they had together? Shum (First Night of Howlergarten) masterfully conveys mood. Randall's body language is relaxed with Parker but tenses up when out of his element. Parker's face is always earnest with a hint of a smile. The other bears appear raucous at first, dominating the page, but as they become friends, their postures align. The limited color palette of the watercolor and ink scenes and spartan design emphasize facial expressions. The narrative reads on two very different levels, keeping adults from tiring of the story; the emotional cues are all spot on. Few picture books ring so true in so few words. The conclusion is a near tearjerker for adults who will remember leveling up to a new group of friends; young readers will be encouraged to reach outside their comfort zone. It's a win-win reading experience for all. VERDICT An essential work on making friends, being brave, and dealing with the inherent emotional turmoil of growing up.—Jessica A. Bushore - Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.