Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 07/01/2021 Gr 2–5—A young white boy named Charlie, his younger brother, and parents travel from Canada to Cuba for the experience of a lifetime, getting to know another country through its people and customs. Instead of staying at the all-inclusive resort, they lodge with locals in small villages sharing their meals and living as much unlike tourists as possible. Our protagonist quickly learns Cuba is a place of rules and traditions to keep tourists and citizens separate, but he finds ways to make friends and learn the hidden side of a colorful and vibrant locale. This latest installment of the "Travels with My Family" series will transport developing readers, and will leave them wanting to taste fruits they may have never seen and learn to ride a horse bareback. The short chapters have many Spanish phrases, most of which are translated in context. What the story lacks in plot it makes up for in its ability to make children feel they are seeing, smelling, and experiencing Cuba firsthand. Black-and-white sketches and moments of humor are scattered throughout this unique fictionalized version of a youth travel guide. VERDICT While this book may not appeal to all readers due to its weak plot and somewhat fragmented story line, those who have ever wondered what other parts of the world are like will find themselves absorbed and longing to see Cuba for themselves.—Emily Beasley, Omaha Public Sch., NE - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.