Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 06/01/2022 Gr 2–4—Mira feels out of place and out of sync with everyone around her. While her schoolmates have mastered gymnastic springs, tumbles, and spins, Mira lacks their athletic confidence. She wants to be perfect at something. Instead, she stands aside, sadly comparing herself to them. Alone by the seashore, with no one watching, Mira tries standing on a driftwood log. She "did it all wrong, but it felt better than being a shadow." Slowly, with repeated attempts, Mira begins to master her fears and self-doubt. "It wasn't perfect, but Mira did it." Attempting and accepting her imperfect results makes Mira feel confident. With colored pencil and watercolor ink, Pray fills each page with softened pastel yellows, pinks, and blues; the seashore, where Mira feels safe, has a wide, open horizon, inviting Mira to open herself up to imperfection. Undulating waves stretch out to infinity, showing that anything is possible. Mira's usual frown flips up into a smile as she wobbles on the log, slips off, but then tries again. VERDICT This engaging story provides an inspiring insight into children's feelings and the growth of confidence. Pair with similar stories by Peter H. Reynolds including The Dot, Ish, and Sky Color.—Monica Fleche - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.