Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 10/01/2023 Oona, the young mermaid first introduced in Oona (2021) and Oona and the Shark (2022), returns with a brand-new adventure. Oona loves the surprises her ocean home holds, but she can't believe when she finds baby beluga. She enthusiastically tries to make the tiny whale feel at home, offering it food and friendship, but, despite her efforts, the beluga still looks sad. Realizing that it must miss its family, Oona and her friend Otto (an otter) plan a trip to the Arctic to reunite the youngster with its pod. Using Oona’s brilliance and collection of maps and compasses, the trio sets off toward the icy north, encountering many wonders and tense situations along the way. Upon reaching the Arctic, they make a new mermaid friend in Siku, who helps them locate the whale’s family. Despite its chilly temperatures, this story will warm the heart, and much of its sweetness is found in Figueroa’s gentle illustrations. Readers will find the bright colors and rounded figures inviting and they’ll also appreciate seeing mermaids of color, from Oona’s brown skin and full afro to Siku’s resemblance to the north’s Inuit. A lovely escapade. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.