Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 02/01/2024 Gr 4–8—Kyi tells the story of Emily, who is an average eighth grader with dreams of becoming an influencer. She runs a school podcast called Cedarview Speaks with three other students. Usually it's a quiet podcast, but the news of influencer Asha Jamil's visit to Cedarview Middle School has everyone excited. Emily does all she can to stay up to date with what is happening around her, including a climate march one of the high schoolers is planning. The excitement of the climate march and Asha Jamil's appearance is quickly extinguished when Emily realizes they are on the same day; the principal, Mr. Lau, purposely scheduled them for the same day so students wouldn't go to the march and mess up the school's corporate sponsorship. Emily is navigating all this plus new family members and her new friends interrupting old friendships. Kyi's writing brings all these elements together for a very crafty and exciting ending. This realistic fiction title is truly a middle grade read. Nothing in the content suggests anything too mature, with the exception of one reference to sexting. The story's complicated nature is pieced together by the end and the relationships between the characters are very well done. The ending is somewhat rushed and glances over plot holes, but things ultimately reach an intriguing and satisfying conclusion. Subtle plot elements like the bullying of a friend are handled quietly but efficiently. VERDICT Recommended for any ambitious middle schoolers who feel as if they are struggling to find their way.—Natalie Wallace - Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.