Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 08/01/2023 Gr 4–6—Welcome to Dogtown, a shelter for regular dogs—and robot dogs (don't ask, just go with it). The shelter's top dog is Chance, a congenial and introspective pooch, who like all the residents, longs to reunite with her family. But as Chance understands, "Hope is a painful business." That anguish, along with her resentment towards robot dogs (they often get adopted before real dogs) fades as Chance spends time with a robot dog she nicknames Metal Head. Animosity gradually evolves into understanding, then friendship as Chance introduces Metal Head to Mouse, a real mouse who lives in the shelter and shares Chance's kibble. The action shifts to adventure when Chance and Mouse escape Dogtown to accompany Metal Head on his quest to rejoin his family. Super short chapters, perhaps suggesting a dog's alleged limited attention span, keep the novel's pace moving briskly toward a climax sure to please animal lovers despite a few sad moments along the way. Chance captivates with insights that are hilarious and wise beyond her age in dog years. She counsels Mouse, "Your heart is a muscle…It grows stronger the more you use it." Thoughtful back matter suggests how children can help shelter dogs. West's grayscale art perfectly captures canine emotion and unbridled energy. VERDICT When Applegate and Choldenko collaborate, readers win.—Marybeth Kozikowski - Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 09/01/2023 The unusual Dogtown shelter provides refuge to both wayward dogs and abandoned robot pups, and there is resentment brewing between the groups. Chance knows he’s lucky to have a good life at the shelter after being injured and abandoned by unscrupulous pet-sitters, but having three legs, he worries that no one will want him, and he’s still hoping to be reunited with his family. Chance can’t understand why Metal Head, a recently discarded robot, refuses to ingratiate himself with potential adopters, preferring to plot a way back to his former owner. The two eventually form an uneasy alliance and, with additional assistance from a resident mouse, escape the confines of the shelter for an outdoor adventure. But their path home will be anything but straightforward. The tension and humor are beautifully balanced in this sympathetic story, and the delightfully distinct voices and memorable characters are enormous fun. Brief chapters set a brisk pace, and charming black-and-white illustrations are incredibly appealing. A sweet spotlight on shelter animals that is as heartwarming as it is entertaining. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.