Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 06/01/2020 Fans of Rick Riordan’s Greek mythology–inspired stories with modern kids will love this fresh, inclusive title featuring a squad of goddesses whose job it is to inspire humans. Callie Martinez-Silva, a Cuban American girl from Miami, learns she embodies one of the nine muses after she accidentally turns her best friend into a pop star. She is one of four junior, newly awakened muses, who adopt the name Muse Squad when they receive their first assignment: Maya Rivero, one of Callie’s classmates who is fated to change the world (and save Florida from floods). The narrative sticks to its theme of love in all forms brilliantly and isn’t just set in Miami; Acevedo, a professor at the University of Miami, depicts the Magic City in rich detail, giving it life and context in the story, which is action-packed, as the squad has to protect Maya’s destiny from the chaos-loving Sirens, who plan to unleash a curse that will ruin her future. Clever references to the Odyssey and the muses in media round out this fun take on the ones who inspire, rather than just the heroes. - Copyright 2020 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 07/01/2020 - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

School Library Journal - 07/01/2020 Gr 3–6—There are too many changes impacting Callie's life. Her favorite aunt, tia Annie, passed away; her parents divorced; Dad and his new wife are expecting a baby; and her BFF is suddenly a TV singing sensation. When she is approached by Clio and told she is one of the nine muses, a Greek goddess of sorts, Callie is definitely sure she is dreaming, and fairly sure she doesn't want to accept the responsibility. But then she is magically transported to muse headquarters, in London's Victoria and Albert Museum, and introduced to three fellow tween muses, self-dubbed the Muse Squad. Clio shows Callie that Maya, a brilliant, nerdy student at her middle school, is being targeted by the evil Sirens, and if they succeed in disrupting Maya's life it may change the fate of the world. Callie agrees to join her Muse Squad mates and find a way to protect Maya and save the planet. This riveting, suspenseful book presents a unique blend of Greek mythology and Cuban culture. Readers will relate to Callie and her Muse Squad friends while eagerly rooting for them to succeed. The girls, while trying to complete their mission, make age-appropriate mistakes and become tempted to use their powers for personal reasons. Insecure Callie is also fighting blossoming jealousy of her suddenly famous best friend. Callie's Cuban heritage is highlighted throughout the story, particularly once the Muse Squad relocates to Miami and the diverse group attempts to acclimate. VERDICT Perfect for readers of mythology-based adventures, fantasy fans, and anyone who enjoys a suspenseful action book.—Nancy Nadig, Penn Manor Sch. Dist., Lancaster, PA - Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.