Bound To Stay Bound

Other - 04/21/2025 Young witch Jazzy struggles with having confidence in her magical abilities: "Look at all them witches," Jazzy says, noting a wall of photos showcasing her powerful ancestors, "THEY fit in." This concern worsens when schoolteacher Madame Melcha announces the day’s lesson: flying. As Jazzy watches her peers successfully mount their brooms, Jazzy-who dangles precariously from her own broom as it haphazardly bends and twirls-feels inadequate. But then she learns of an alternate means of transportation-cycling-and rather than focus on her schoolwork or relationships, she builds a bicycle of her own. Her angst about flying becomes a thing of the past, until Madame Melcha announces that the students will participate in an upcoming flying parade in celebration of the supermoon. As Jazzy continues to founder in her attempts to handle a broom, she worries she’ll never get the hang of this witchy rite of passage. Whimsy abounds in this playful series-opening graphic novel by Bagley (Maurice), relayed in moody, jewel-toned hues and striking shadows. Across a luminous, rhythmically told story, Bagley stages silly scenarios centering an earnest and well-intentioned, occasionally one-track-minded protagonist that perceptively drive home themes of self-confidence, accountability, and embracing one’s flaws and strengths. Characters are depicted with varying skin tones. Ages 8-12. (July) - Copyright 2025

School Library Journal - 07/04/2025 Gr 3–7—Jazzy comes from a long line of witches known for crafting besoms (brooms), but unlike her classmates and family, magic—and broom flying in particular—just doesn't click for her. While everyone else seems to soar with ease, Jazzy feels left behind, until she catches a glimpse of a bike race on TV and instantly knows: she was born to ride. But riding a bicycle is unheard of in witch society. Caught between worlds and afraid of disappointing her family, Jazzy keeps her new calling a secret from everyone except for her loyal pet familiar bat, Fiona, and her best friend, Aggie. When her school announces a big supermoon broom-riding parade, Jazzy must summon the will to practice flying instead of sneaking off for another joyful spin on her beloved bike, or risk public humiliation. Bagley's art soars, with cute, expressive illustrations outfitted with a Halloween palette of deep purples, charcoal grays, and mossy greens. Jazzy's excitement for cycling and struggle to feign interest in magic will resonate with middle graders navigating their own emerging passions and school pressures. Her journey is a charming exploration of self-discovery, identity, and the courage it takes to break the mold. Bagley has crafted a sympathetic and realistically flawed character, though Jazzy's stubborn refusal to practice—despite Fiona and Aggie's encouragement—adds a layer of frustration. The story wraps up a bit neatly considering how long Jazzy avoids truly engaging with broom flying, only throwing herself into it the night before the parade. Still, the core message resonates: it's possible to embrace multiple passions, and forging a unique path doesn't require abandoning one's roots. Jazzy, her two moms, and her grandma are Black, and Aggie is white. VERDICT This whimsical and affirming tale of self-discovery will strike a chord with readers learning to balance expectations with personal passions.—Jasmine Amiri - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.