Bound To Stay Bound

Other - 04/21/2025 Through the voice of soon-to-be middle child Rasheed, Barnes (The King of Kindergarten) honors older siblings’ contributions to family dynamics. Rasheed’s first memory is of elder brother Anthony, whose "electric smile" welcomed him to the family, portrayed as Black. ("I got him, Momma," Anthony says when holding the baby. "I’ll be careful. I promise. He’s my little brother.") As Rasheed grows, Anthony’s guidance extends to building and toppling block towers, braving scary storms, and jumping into puddles. Stylized illustrations from Knight-Justice (Big Tune) layer bold patterns to capture the brothers’ bond and joy in each other’s company as Anthony both claims his own space and reassures Rasheed that, no matter what, "I got you." And when their parents announce a new addition, Rasheed is more than ready to take the reins, having learned from Anthony how to be a steady sibling, and echoing his older brother’s promise to the infant ("I’ll be careful. I promise.... You’re my little brother"). It’s a touching work that models secure attachments and strong sibling connections. Ages 3-7. Author’s agent: Regina Brooks, Serendipity Literary. Illustrator’s agent: Christy Ewers, CAT Agency. (July) - Copyright 2025

School Library Journal - 09/19/2025 K-Gr 3—Rasheed has always looked up to his big brother. Anthony was the first person he saw when he opened his eyes, the one who taught him to stack blocks, face thunderstorms, and ride a bike with joy and confidence. In rhythmic, first-person narration, Rasheed recounts how his older sibling gently guides him through the big and small lessons of growing up. But when Anthony rides off with friends and leaves Rasheed behind, the ache of exclusion sets in. A heartfelt conversation follows, one that models how to set boundaries with love: "Sometimes I'm going to do things with my friends, all by myself, and that's okay/ I got you." Barnes captures the emotional richness of sibling relationships with honesty and tenderness, delivering a satisfying resolution in the final pages, when Rasheed takes on the mentor role himself. Knight-Justice's gorgeous collage and digital illustrations wrap the family in a visual atmosphere of warmth and creativity. Textured backdrops layer musical notes, leaves, and geometric forms, evoking rhythm, growth, and care. Characters are depicted in a range of brown skin tones, grounding the story in a joyful and lovingly rendered Black family. The boys' bond stays visually centered, even as the world around them shifts. VERDICT A deeply affirming portrayal of sibling dynamics and growing up. Highly recommended for collections exploring family, emotional resilience, and love in all its quiet forms.—Rose Garrett - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.