Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 02/15/2022 This humorous and touching book speaks to children with working mommies. Leaving home for work is only temporary, and the mom in this story reassures her daughter that her departure is only a brief moment. The mother’s wildly imaginative descriptions of her work as a postal worker unfold as she assuages her daughter’s heartfelt separation anxiety: “I might have to trudge up a mountain,” “rescue a sinking canoe,” or “ride on a whale and get wet,” the mom says, ending her adventures with the comforting refrain, “But I’ll always, always, ALWAYS come back to you.” The busy mom’s inventive narratives comically line up with her morning as she multitasks her way through a frenzied routine. The rhythmic lines complemented by the sometimes silly illustrations nicely explore the anxiety or sadness children might experience upon separating from a loving guardian. The book also highlights a nurturing process of easing these worries with playful affection while simultaneously building a positive image of working mothers. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.

Booklist - 02/15/2022 - Copyright 2022 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 10/07/2022 PreS-Gr 2—In this clever and humorous picture book, a mother lovingly reassures her daughter that no matter where she goes, she will always return. As a mother gets ready for work and hurriedly makes breakfast, her daughter looks worriedly on, anticipating the moment they will be separated. Using wild and astonishing examples, the parent seeks to comfort her daughter—whether it's visiting a sick friend or riding on a whale or fighting off bears, she will always come back. She assures the little girl that no matter who watches over her—a babysitter or relative—the child will be safe, even if she is a little bored until they can be reunited. The colorful and lively illustrations convey the rush of the mother's life as she readies for work as a mail carrier, depicting her in the imaginative situations she shares with her daughter. As the daughter grows sad, the room darkens until her mother finally returns. Short sentences and fun situations make this an excellent read-aloud and story time selection, with repetitive phrases reinforcing the message. VERDICT A solid choice for exploring the topic of separation and temporary absence of a parent or caregiver, recommended for all libraries.—Selenia Paz - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.