Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 05/01/2024 K-Gr 2—Dayo wakes up one Saturday morning after dreaming of a yellow bird and spends her day trying to uncover its meaning. She and her family practice Hoodoo, and their spiritual affirmations and rituals guide Dayo to be observant, to honor her heritage and community, to call on her ancestors, and to use her intuition as she considers her dream. Ultimately, she comes to discover its meaning for herself, with the gentle support of those in her circle. The story is a celebration of a specific version of Black spirituality and culture, and the bright, buoyant art only adds to the joy. Pops of yellow, bold African prints, and lots of background detail enrich the cheerful illustrations, and a few cleverly placed yellow birds will reward observant readers. All characters have brown skin, and a variety of hairstyles are featured; a secondary character has two mothers. Back matter includes a recipe from the story. VERDICT Loving and ebullient, this affirming title offers a glimpse into aspects of the African diaspora not often centered in picture books and often misunderstood. A necessary purchase.—Lauren Strohecker - Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.