Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 05/01/2022 Gr 3–6—In this follow-up to Grossman's The Silver Arrow, Kate, who is white, waits impatiently for her uncle to deliver her train schedule, allowing her to resume her animal rescue activities. When Uncle Herbert doesn't show up, she takes the Silver Arrow out to look for him. Along the way, she runs into another train and conductor on the Great Secret Intercontinental Railway. When she discovers that the conductor of the Golden Swift has gone rogue and is implementing his own plans for the environment, Kate must choose between continuing her search for her uncle or helping the Golden Swift's conductor with his plan. On top of everything else, Kate struggles with school and her relationship with her brother. Magical trains, talking animals, and environmental change all take center stage in this story full of friendship and moral dilemmas. Kate discovers that sometimes good intentions just aren't enough. Grossman's writing style and vocabulary make this tale kid-friendly and easy to read. The riveting action will keep young readers turning pages, eager to find out what happens next. Bishop's black-and-white illustrations highlight the characters, settings, and plot in a wonderful way. VERDICT A must-purchase for libraries where The Silver Arrow is popular or stories of magic and natural wonder are desired.—Heidi Grange - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 05/01/2022 Kate still thrills at her responsibility as conductor of the Silver Arrow, ferrying threatened animals to safer habitats via her enchanted train. But regular-world distractions are competing for her attention: more schoolwork, a never-ending onslaught of natural disasters, and, alarmingly, a missing relative. Uncle Herbert vanished months ago, along with the timetables Kate relies on to make her magical trips. She heads out to find him but promptly runs into more mysteries, including another train conductor with nebulous—but possibly nefarious—intentions. This Silver Arrow (2020) sequel retains the magic of the first installment but goes deeper, revealing more of the secretive train world while raising the moral stakes. The story doesn’t shy away from people’s increasingly complicated place in the natural world, but Grossman doesn’t let humans off the hook, insisting that Kate and company continue to do their best, make mistakes, and try again. It’s both encouragement for young readers navigating this fraught, fascinating world and a vital reminder that every day is a new chance for humans to change. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.