Bound To Stay Bound

Publishers Weekly - 03/30/2026 A royal misunderstanding yields an over-the-top result in Kastner’s goofy medieval tale, which features a classic summertime treat. With a kingdom dedicated to anticipating her every need, Princess Roselyn the Reticent "never had to say a word." In response to her grumbling stomach, the palace intuits that she desires ice cream. The princess tries to clarify, but it’s decided she must want "ALL THE ICE CREAM IN THE LAND!" From there, humorous storytelling proceeds stepwise as laborers are put into service. Potters get to work on a new "colossal bowl," while metalsmiths melt fine silver for a proportionate spoon. Even wizards get in on the action, enlarging the princess herself, which of course necessitates new clothing, a larger teddy bear, and more. Set against white backdrops, acrylic gouache, pencil, and ink sketches of comparatively antlike workers contrast with the outsize plot developments as the royal’s revelation of her true wish allows the frozen treat to become a community affair. It’s a supersize story starting with a small miscommunication that yields an abundance of laughs. Characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Ages 4-8. (May) - Copyright 2026 Publishers Weekly used with permission.

Booklist - 05/01/2026 When a princess doesn’t say what she wants, her whole kingdom goes to extremes to bring her what she really doesn’t need. Rosalyn the Reticent’s family and attendants are certain they can anticipate her every wish, and when they hear her tummy rumble, one thing leads to another to provide her an over-the-top treat. Potters, metalsmiths, woodworkers, and stonemasons are called upon to make the largest of everything to accommodate all the ice cream in the land—a bowl, spoon, cabinet, and larger castle—requiring the princess herself to be turned into a giant by a band of wizards. The villagers proudly present an immense bowl of ice cream for which Rosalyn is appreciative but sheepishly admits that had she spoken up, all they would have had to provide her was a slice of pizza. Author-illustrator Kastner uses acrylic gouache, pencil, and ink to create many busy scenes of makers’ activities full of details; cute, cartoonish round-faced characters are featured throughout. A delightful tall tale highlighting the importance of speaking up for oneself. - Copyright 2026 Booklist.