Bound To Stay Bound

Other - 11/18/2024 After tumbling into an enormous clay pot in their t?a Xia’s front yard and happening upon a magical boat, Cuban and Mexican American cousins-daredevil Jorge, his responsible older sister Camila, and would-be social media influencer Siggy-are transported from present-day Miami to 1862 Virginia, where they learn that T?a Xia is a frequent time traveler. To return home, they must rendezvous with her in Mexico, a daring quest during which they outwit Confederate Army soldiers, borrow a hydrogen balloon, and play a pivotal role in the Battle of Puebla to ensure Mexico’s independence. As the cousins navigate a treacherous, war-torn environment, they gain a new appreciation for their heritage and culture. This high-flying, fast-paced adventure by Otheguy (Sof?a Acosta Makes a Scene) gleefully embraces and explores Latino history, particularly the intersection of Mexican and United States relations. Prose circumvents the grim reality of the trio’s dangerous circumstances, maintaining an almost tongue-in-cheek playfulness and culminating in an accessible and entertaining look at the events that led to contemporary Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Atmospheric digital illustrations with a graphite feel by Bernatene (The Bookshop Girl) feature throughout. Ages 8-12. Author’s agent: Adriana Dominguez, Aevitas Creative. (Feb.) - Copyright 2024

School Library Journal - 04/18/2025 Gr 3–7—A spellbinding tale that bridges the power of history, imagination, and family bonds. This book is not just a story—it's an adventure, a lesson, and an invitation to young readers to dream beyond the pages. At its heart, this novel celebrates the strength that comes from family. The cousins in the story embark on a journey that challenges them to trust one another, discover their inner courage, and embrace the magic hidden within the past. Otheguy masterfully blends historical elements with fantasy, reminding readers that history is not just something to read about. It is something they can experience and even step into if they dare to unlock its mysteries. Bernatene's illustrations add another layer of wonder. With bold, bright, and mesmerizing images, the worldbuilding comes alive. The colors, textures, and details bring the characters and their surroundings to life, making the adventure even more immersive. This book is a treasure for children and adults alike, proving that imagination is the ultimate portal to knowledge, adventure, and endless possibilities. The Spanish-language translation captures the wonder of the English edition. VERDICT Purchase both editions for middle grade collections.—Aurora Domingue - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 01/01/2025 At first glance, Tia Xia seems like a neglectful babysitter to her niece and two nephews, but she can actually travel through time. The cousins soon find themselves transported back to 1862 when two events are happening simultaneously: the Civil War in the U.S. and the Battle of Puebla in Mexico. Traveling by boat and hot-air balloon, the children make friends along the way and aid not only in the rescue of their aunt but also in the delivery of a special sword to General Ignacio Zaragoza. With black-and-white illustrations throughout, this historical action-adventure tale reads like a blend of Rodman Philbrick’s The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg (2009) and Treasure Island. Extensive back matter includes important information about the true origins of Cinco de Mayo, helpful notes about which parts of the historical fiction stem from reality (e.g., the sword is real!), a glossary, a bibliography, and a list for further reading. There is quite a bit to learn here about Cinco de Mayo and readers will find Otheguy successful both as an author and a historian. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.