Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 08/01/2025 *Starred Review* With her debut picture book, Lopez embraces Mexican culture and shares a touching story about celebrating those we love who have passed on. Nana loves her casita, her family, and her xoloitzcuintle dog, Popo. Popo keeps her company, and when he sits on her lap, his body’s warmth helps her aching bones. One day, sitting in her armchair, Nana passes into the mythical land of Mictlan. In Indigenous Mexican culture, the dead travel through the nine levels of Mictlan to reach a place of rest. Accompanied by Popo, Nana starts the long walk, encountering a river, steep climbs, snow, and mischievous monkeys, among other things. Encouraged by Popo to “Keep going. ¡Vámonos!”, Nana notices that her physical ailments are slowly disappearing. Finally reunited with her beloved husband, Nana sends Popo back to her family in the living world. Matias’ captivating illustrations, executed in cut paper and digital media, illuminate the story with rich jewel-toned colors and texture. Details such as Nana’s and Popo’s bony reflections in water offer interesting visual cues, while Spanish words throughout the text add cultural authenticity and warmth. This is a triumphant, moving reflection on death that pays meaningful homage to Indigenous Mexican culture. An author’s note about Mictlan, xoloitzcuintle dogs, and grief and a Spanish glossary conclude. Also available in a Spanish edition, Popo el Xolo. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.