Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 11/01/2022 Gr 1–3—This follow-up to the star-spangled Gigi and Ojiji is similarly nuanced and engaging for newly independent readers. Gigi, a Japanese American girl, lives with her parents and Ojiji, her Japanese grandpa. Gigi learns that her full given name is Geraldine, and that her Japanese name is Hanako. After experimenting with writing and being called these more formal names, Gigi doesn't recognize the names when they are used to get her attention. Gigi is in a real conundrum, because Hanako is the most easily pronounceable name for Ojiji, and her relationship with her grandfather is important to her. It takes Ojiji's observation that "Gigi" fits her best for this relatable problem to be solved. Gigi's problem will resonate with young readers of different ethnicities who have multiple names and will inform readers who have not faced this to understand this cultural difference. The dialogue and inner narration mean readers need to note when conversations are being held aloud and when Gigi is thinking to herself. The adorable images will help readers understand the three to seven lines per page. The image of Ojiji teaching Gigi how to write "Hanako" in Japanese script will be captivating for young readers. A short glossary in the back provides a handy review and invites readers to enjoy the book again. The diversity of the people in public places is a small, but important, aspect of representation. VERDICT This important book will diversify collections for newly independent readers. A must buy.—Jamie Winchell - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 02/15/2023 Gigi wonders why no one calls her by her full name. When her mother explains that Gigi once struggled to pronounce Geraldine, her full name, Gigi deems her current moniker to be “a baby name” and tries on new ones. The child soon gets tired of printing out all the letters in Geraldine when she signs her artwork, and her real name is also hard for Ojiji, her Japanese grandfather, to pronounce. After Ojiji teaches her how to write her middle name in Japanese, she wants to be known as Hanako. Eventually, having a sense of agency, the child realizes, “I don’t feel like it’s me.” With the support of her family, she finds her authentic identity: “She would be Gigi from now on!” This entry in the I Can Read series for newly independent readers is a follow-up to Gigi and Ojiji (2022) and includes a glossary of four Japanese words. Iwai’s expressive cartoons complement the text and capture warm family dynamics. A relatable look at names and why they matter. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.