Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 12/15/2018 In this third series adventure, Professor Fauna, Elliot, and Uchenna respond to a request for help from the Native Muckleshoot people of the Pacific Northwest. Sasquatch are being threatened by the Schmoke brothers’ logging operation, and society member Mack needs backup if he’s to keep these gentle giants safe. A persistent news crew adds an extra challenge, as they endeavor to film the Sasquatch for a sensational story. Bruchac lends his writing talents and cultural perspective to this book, bringing the Muckleshoot characters to life in a way that is respectful and laced with humor, the latter being an important quality to Native peoples, according to Bruchac’s author’s note. As in the previous entries, quirky personalities and silly antics drive the plot, but admirable values rest at its core—in this case compassion, environmental stewardship, and cultural awareness. Aly continues to add to the fun with his liberal illustrations of the Unicorn Rescue Society in action. - Copyright 2018 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 02/01/2019 Gr 3–5—Another adventure of The Unicorn Rescue Society, this time taking place in the Pacific Northwest on land owned by the Muckleshoot Native Americans who are intent on protecting the Sasquatch from the evil Schmoke Brothers' intrusions. Uchenna and Eliot are familiar characters in the series, as are Professor Fauna and the amazing Jersey Devil. Humor from host Mack and his daughter Raven leavens the necessary historical background, which gives weight and adds suspense to the plot. As in previous rescues, Uchenna is thrilled by the danger, while Eliot appears timid until his action is critically needed. Interspersed pen-and-ink drawings provide readers with illustrations at critical junctures and are in keeping with the diverting antics of our heroes. As facts are interwoven and also combined with a multitude of puns, the narrative is informative and lighthearted. The humanoid qualities of the Sasquatch, as well as the Jersey Devil, provide readers with a cuddly impression of these giant beings. The legends around these mythic creatures are often intended to frighten, but these slapstick adventures focus more on preserving and maintaining the environments that are essential to their supposed existence. The message is sometimes subtle, but what is conveyed by the evil selfishness of the Schmoke Brothers and their "SNERT TV: ALL THE NEWS WE WANT YOU TO KNOW" is as blatant as it is hilarious. Learning while laughing is the goal, and it is achieved. VERDICT Another fine installment in this well-written and adventure-packed series.—Carol A. Edwards, Formerly at Denver Public Library - Copyright 2019 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.