Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 08/01/2024 Gr 6–10—This dual-narrative novel follows siblings Jakob and Lizzie Novis through WWII-era London just prior to the Blitz. Jakob is 19, working as a codebreaker at Bletchley Park, trying to unlock the secrets of the German Enigma machine. His younger sister Lizzie wants to remain in England but is caught in a furious battle with her American grandmother over an attempt to bring her to the U.S. Lizzie is vehement about staying because she wants to locate their mother, an embassy worker who went missing in Poland when the Nazis invaded. And while Jakob doesn't believe their mother is alive, when he and Lizzie start receiving coded messages in the mail, the siblings unite to uncover the truth. This book is an impressive joint effort between Sepetys and Sheinkin. Not only do they present a history of cryptography within details of life at Bletchley Park, they also highlight the Enigma-cracking contributions of well-known figures (e.g., Alan Turing) along with the lesser-known Polish team of Marian Rejewski, Henryk Zygalski, and Jerzy Ró ycki. Sepetys and Sheinkin have created two protagonists who balance and complement each other in the dual-narrative format: Lizzie is assertive, quick-thinking, and persistent, while Jakob is reserved, thoughtful, and protective. The dangers of life in wartime England are ever present, but this book introduces enough levity to keep the tone light and engaging. VERDICT With broad appeal to both WWII and mystery enthusiasts, this highly recommended title is a first purchase for all libraries serving tweens and teens.—Michael Van Wambeke - Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.