Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 01/01/2023 Jack, a mild-mannered cat, loves the library, but Ms. Fisher, the children’s librarian, isn’t a cat person. She repeatedly reminds Jack, “Cats are not allowed in the library.” Still, he manages to sneak in. One day, she escorts him from the building and posts a “No Cats Allowed” sign on the front door. Soon he befriends Pascal, a boy who takes him inside. Learning to read, Pascal loves reading aloud to Jack, who reminds him of the cat he used to have. When Ms. Fisher finds them enjoying a book together, Pascal suggests that other children might like reading to Jack too. She relents, posting a “Read with Jack, the Library Cat” sign in the library. The story evokes quiet empathy for both the stray cat and the boy who misses his pet. An appended note explains how young readers benefit from reading aloud to animals, then suggests that children without pets might find read-to-an-animal opportunities at a local library or animal shelter. Illustrations in warm, gentle colors heighten the appeal of this pleasing picture book. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.