Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 10/01/2025 K-Gr 3—This bilingual picture book tells the story of a brother and sister who want to become mariachis. Joselito and Lupita, two Latinx children, hear mariachis at a party and decide they want to sing and dress up like the musicians. After being laughed at by their classmates, the majority of whom are white with a few kids of color, and encouraged by their Latinx teacher, they begin to practice. They receive mariachi outfits and begin performing. The two children do not give up and achieve their goal. The story is told from Joselito's point of view and conveys an optimistic attitude. The artwork appears to be done colored pencil and captures the emotions of the characters. Close-ups of the characters' faces are expressive and clear. The illustrations are done in soft colors and include cloudlike backgrounds that match the characters' outfits. VERDICT This bilingual book about children pursuing their dreams is a strong purchase where libraries are filling gaps in their bilingual collections. Otherwise, it's an additional purchase.—Margaret Puentes - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.