Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 10/01/2023 PreS-K—The world away from one's home can be a scary place, and few creatures understand the fear of the unknown better than a man named Lawrence and a bird named Sophia. Though they live in the same general vicinity, it is not until Sophia bravely ventures to the end of a very long tree branch that she and Lawrence begin to see each other for the first time. Despite their fears, the two build an unlikely friendship, and when a storm hastily approaches, they do what they must, separately, to ensure the other is safe from harm. This charming picture book is a gentle reminder that everyone feels reservations sometimes, but with the right companion, bravery can take root. From the outset, a parallel structure in the storytelling will draw readers' attention to the palpable similarities between Lawrence and Sophia despite outward differences. Because the text is relatively short, young readers will find this book highly approachable, and they will likewise enjoy examining the detailed illustrations. The images frequently say more than the words do, with subtle humor and occasionally interwoven between the words and the pictures, enhancing the appeal of the book. Soft, muted hues and texture-rich illustrations give the book an almost tactile quality. VERDICT This enjoyable story of two unlikely friends who make each other brave is a good addition to library collections.—Mary R. Lanni - Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 10/01/2023 Lawrence, a boy who lives in a cozy house with a small fenced-in yard, avoids going “out there,” where things are big, loud, and crowded. Sophia, a little bird living in a tree just outside Lawrence’s fence, avoids going “down there” to ground level, where things are dark, bumpy, and dangerous. One day, she bravely walks along a branch and sees Lawrence through his window. Thrilled to have a visitor, Lawrence begins meeting her outdoors: Sophia on her branch, and he in his yard. Playing together, they become friends. Lawrence moves into a tent beneath her branch, but when a fierce thunderstorm motivates each one to search for the other, they face their fears and find each other. Author of the Caldecott Honor Book Click, Clack, Moo (2000), Cronin offers a charming story that will resonate with children who are shy or anxious around unfamiliar people and places. Written with simplicity and sensitivity, the well-structured story reads aloud well. The delicate illustrations, created with poster paint, suit the quiet tone of this satisfying picture book. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.