Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 02/01/2024 Gr 3–7—Entering the seventh grade at Neo-Earth Junior High is a new chance at a first impression for Kira. Over the summer, her self-proclaimed rival Tulip became a Magical Girl, complete with a familiar, and was able to participate in the Sealander champions in battle competitions. It quickly becomes clear that most of the school is focused on their new hometown hero, Fairytale Fighter, and this year is not the fresh start that lonely Kira had planned. At home, a shooting star illuminates a frustrated Kira's window, so she makes a wish and a subsequent crash leads to her meeting Catacorn—a space princess who has come to Neo-Earth on a secret mission. Kira is soon pulled into helping Catacorn use Cutie gadgets, close warp zones, and develop the duo's abilities. At first, Kira is self-absorbed and really only helps Catacorn because she thinks it'll get her recognition as a Magical Girl. By the end, Kira begins to understand that there's more to friendship and to being a Magical Girl than simply getting what she wants. Brennan's artwork is playfully colorful with a loose feel that matches the silly nature of the story. Often, the tale is a bit over-the-top, and young readers probably will not recognize the satire behind some of the humor, but the struggle of finding your place and making true friends will resonate. End notes indicate a sequel is already in the works. VERDICT Recommended where graphic novels are popular.—Lisa Rowland - Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.