Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 01/01/2021 PreS-Gr 3—Manman is planning a special day for her daughter, Fallon, in the markets of Port-au-Prince, and little sister Naima will have to wait her turn. Charles sprinkles Haitian words into the text that give texture to this loving book, which is part interpersonal story and a part travelogue of sights and sounds."Manman wraps her hair in a silk mouchwa, brighter than the Caribbean sea. I twist my sun-yellow scarf into my braids, but it doesn't look as good as hers." Palacio's brilliant illustrations of slightly stylized, elongated figures with mahogany skin tones, make the meanings clear, as Manman adds a panye, or basket, to the mouchwa on her head, for bringing back supplies. Along the way, Fallon longs to carry the panye, but her mother cautions her that these things take time. There are metaphors for carrying the panye that extend to Haiti itself—that it sways under the weight of sad events but it is not crushed. The poetic writing and Fallon's assessment of her ability will touch children deeply. An author's note tells of Charles's affinity for and connection to Haiti, and the significance of the panye globally. VERDICT A few facts, a generous worldview, and a bonding of mother and daughter makes this book ideal for story hours and lap-sharing.—Kimberly Olson Fakih, School Library Journal - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 02/01/2021 Fallon couldn’t be more excited about accompanying Manman to the market. She not only gets to wrap her hair in a mouchwa in imitation of her mother but also gets to carry the panye. It’s an honor and a rite of passage for which Fallon, and all the girls in Haiti, must be ready. Fallon balances the basket on her head for a moment before it topples off. Manman reassures her that she must be patient—“little by little the bird builds its nest”—and advises Fallon to be observant when they’re at the market. This advice isn’t lost on Fallon, and readers might also take note of the wisdom. While the text honors the work of women and girls who keep communities strong and traditions meaningful, Palacios’ cheerful illustrations are as vibrant and lush as the island itself, a perfect complement to Charles’ tribute to the women of Haiti. An author’s note provides context and deeper recognition of the coexistent beauty and devastation that the island and its people have endured for centuries. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.