Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 05/02/2026 K-Gr 2—Waffles (a dog) loves hugs. Julius (a cat) does not. Not at all. Waffles really wants to hug his friend, Julius. Julius really does not want a hug. Not now, not later, not with a stick, not while being serenaded with his favorite song, and not after a chase. Waffles will wait. Other picture books about hugs and body autonomy, such as Carrie Finison's Don't Hug Doug and Sarah Hovorka's Hattie Hates Hugs, explicitly model children asserting and respecting personal boundaries. This title takes a different approach. In the end, Julius curls up beside Waffles for a nap, resulting in a hug. Whether Julius has changed his mind, accepts affection on his own terms, or is simply behaving like a typical cat is left up to the reader's interpretation. The illustrations are very appealing; simple yet dynamic, with bold color and expressive energy that effectively convey the story's humor and character. VERDICT Lighthearted and entertaining, but the underlying message about persistence and boundaries may give some readers pause.—Jennifer Noonan - Copyright 2026 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 06/01/2026 Waffles the dog desperately wants a hug from Julius the cat and persists in many misguided yet well-meaning ways. Each strategy, such as bringing Julius a stick, singing loudly, or chasing him, backfires, and Julius consistently resists. The humor is rooted in contrast and repetition, paired with straightforward, minimally descriptive narration that allows the joke to build naturally. Young listeners will quickly recognize the comedic irony, as Waffles’ dog-like attempts clash with Julius’ very cat-like preferences. The illustrations carry more of the humor than the text, as Julius’ expressive facial reactions make his reluctance unmistakably clear. Mixed-media artwork has a charming, childlike quality that enhances the playful tone and complements the simplicity of the text. The visual contrast between Waffles’ enthusiasm and Julius’ resistance is especially effective, adding depth to the otherwise spare storytelling. Thematically, the story leans toward respecting boundaries and understanding others’ preferences, while the humor keeps the tone light and accessible. This picture book would make a strong read-aloud, particularly for preschool and early elementary audiences who will delight in the repetition and visual jokes. - Copyright 2026 Booklist.