Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 09/01/2017 K-Gr 2—Sweet pastel illustrations are the highlight of this story that has potential but may be more confusing to children than confidence-building. A young girl is fearful due to the "anger and hatred—people against people" that she watches on the nightly news. After inquiring what "she could do to make the world a better place," Papa says, "Come with me." They take a ride on the subway, tip their hats to people they encounter, and make their way to their destination. The text states "The girl and her papa were brave and kind, and that day won a tiny battle over fear for themselves and for the people of the world." That sort of impassioned language to describe seemingly ordinary actions will require more explanation than the book provides. Still wanting to make a difference, the girl asks to walk their dog. Her parents appear concerned about letting their daughter go, but she and a neighbor boy venture out and "their part mattered to the world." Though the parents seem anxious about their child's safety, they allow her to watch disturbing incidents on TV with no supervision or discussion. VERDICT Teaching children that they can make a difference by being "brave, gentle, strong — and kind" in their daily lives is a powerful message. This title could be used with others to spark those important discussions with children and adults.—Maryann H. Owen, Children's Literature Specialist, Mt. Pleasant, WI - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.