Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 04/15/2021 Eleven-year-old Lily is overwhelmed by grief—her dear father is recently deceased, and she is attending school after a lifetime of homeschooling. She has always been challenged by shyness, but the new environment might break her. Enter a cast of characters who confront or support her in her social situations: Ryan, the class bully; Hobart, a small but mighty friend and advocate; and Dunya, the embodiment of kindness. Her father’s challenge to her while alive was to “Strive for Five” (opportunities to speak up daily), and Lily works hard to make him proud, pushing herself throughout the book as situations build and twist to a satisfying resolution. Erskine stretches the characters, creating situations that allow them to grow, come to terms with their weaknesses, and shine. Alternating chapters are narrated by Libro—literally the book, itself—and add humor to the story; however, at moments they intrude on the flow of the narrative, breaking tension. A well-told tale for middle-school students, with a clear understanding of bullying and empathy for all involved. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 05/01/2021 Gr 3–7—After an idyllic childhood of homeschooling, Lily must start public school as a sixth grader after the death of her beloved father. Lily is grieving and overwhelmed by the noise, pace, and bullies of public school. But she quickly finds a friend in the exuberant Hobart, and in time they expand their friendship circle to include other classmates, such as such as Dunya, a recent immigrant. Lily and her friends learn compassion and confidence through their growing bond. This book introduces many mature themes in child-appropriate ways. Erskine explores significant topics, such as the treatment of immigrants in the United Sates, as well as lighter ones, such as how litter is harmful for dogs. These tidbits generally fit with the characters' voice and development as well as the story line, but sometimes feel a bit forced. Narrative chapters alternate with meta-observations by the book itself. The character of the book comments on the children and plot, referring to the author as "the Imaginer" and weighing in on literary themes. Lily is cued as white. VERDICT The story structure may be confusing to less experienced readers, but curious kids who love books will enjoy joining this welcoming group of friends as they learn about the world we share.—Amelia Jenkins, Juneau P.L., AK - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.