Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 05/01/2017 Gr 6–9—A one-of-a-kind story in a familiar diary format. When 12-year-old Felix was a child, his father died in the same lab mishap that fused a fourth-dimensional being known as Zyx to Felix's body. Now that Felix is on the precipice of adolescence, his body is having more trouble containing Zyx, and both must prepare for a risky separation procedure. This novel takes the format of Felix's blog, with asides from Zyx, who communicates by typing. The creature is endlessly supportive of Felix, providing an equal amount of positive reinforcement and earnest confusion at human social mores. As both move toward what may be their deaths, Felix uncovers long-hidden family secrets, discovers his own gift for writing, and develops a connection with his crush, Hector. While Felix's situation is certainly unusual, readers will respond to his self-doubt, the funny asides, and the suspense of how the procedure will turn out. Most notable among the supporting cast is his gender-fluid grandparent Grandy, who alternates among male, female, and no presentation depending on the day of the week. Grandy's presence allows for an explanation of choosing one's own pronouns (here: vo, ven, veir, veirs, veirself) and offers, along with the biracial Hector, more ways for Felix to better understand how all people contain multitudes. VERDICT Like the sweet older brother of middle grade series such as "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" and "Dork Diaries," this title, with its combination of light sci-fi and relatable stakes, should appeal to younger teens.—Ann Foster, Saskatoon Public Library, Sask. - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 05/15/2017 Eighth grade, like every other year of Felix Yz’s life, isn’t easy, but right now, it’s increasingly intense. Why? He is inhabited by a fourth-dimensional creature, Zyx, whose presence forces Felix’s body into a hunched stance he calls “the Pose.” One month before undergoing a procedure designed to separate the boy from his alien, Felix starts a detailed blog of his life, challenges, and thoughts. Told as a daily countdown, Felix records when he’s bullied, when he finally talks with Hector (on whom he has a crush), how the Yz family copes with his situation, and when his fears about the procedure bubble up. Felix is likable and funny, and his relationship with Zyx is fresh and genuine. Containing eye-opening diversity, including Felix’s relationship with his gender-fluid grandparent (“Vern” or “Vera” depending on the day), the story provides an original take on classic themes of family acceptance and middle-grade love. There are plenty of laughs to be had in this lovable debut. Bunker is an author to watch. - Copyright 2017 Booklist.