Bound To Stay Bound

Publishers Weekly - 03/30/2026 Introduced by her bubbe to the concept of a bucket list, a child decides to fashion a summer-specific version in this affectionate picture book from Gehl and Baker. As protagonist Becca enthusiastically checks off activities, from a "giant water balloon battle" to a "sleepover under the stars," she also secretly works to provide Bubbe with the opportunity to accomplish a remaining goal of her own. The catwalk-set result leaves Jewish-cued Bubbe feeling verklempt, and the pair celebrate by crossing one final item off Becca’s own list. Straightforward, companionable narration fluently interweaves Hebrew and Yiddish vocabulary, and flattened ink drawings, softly colored with digital markers, have an everyday quality. Based in easy intergenerational camaraderie, Becca and Bubbe’s approach to summer feels like one to emulate. Figures are depicted with varied body types and skin tones. Includes a glossary. Ages 5-8. (May) - Copyright 2026 Publishers Weekly used with permission.

School Library Journal - 05/02/2026 PreS-Gr 2—In this celebration of nurturing the relationships between women in a family, Becca's bubbe (grandma) helps her complete her summer bucket list. Items include a sleepover under the stars, on a rooftop surrounded by a sprawling urban landscape, and a trip to the ocean for a first swim. Becca's fear of the crashing waves is calmed when Bubbe reaches toward her, offering to hold her hand. Pen-and-India ink art in soft hues depicts gently rounded bodies with expressions radiating joy and kindness. Yet Bubbe shares early on that there is one thing she never accomplished on her own bucket list, the wish to wear a wonderful outfit and walk a runway. Secretly, Becca makes this happen with help from her friends and their grandmothers. The diverse neighborhood, mostly driven by women, comes full circle in a fashion show gala. Becca and Bubbe are Jewish and white; they use some Hebrew and Yiddish words. A glossary is provided. VERDICT A touching testimony to the power of maternal relationships and community. Highly recommended.—Rachel Zuffa - Copyright 2026 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 06/01/2026 After learning about bucket lists her from Bubbe, Becca throws one together herself. Swimming in the ocean, trash-can sundaes, turtle-shaped challah are all included. Bubbe says she has accomplished all of the items on her own list, except for modeling in a fashion show. As the summer days roll by and Becca ticks items off her list, she and her friends secretly make clothing for a fashion show—that is, until there’s an issue with the sewing machine. But Becca’s friends call their grandmas in to help, and Bubbe overcomes her nerves to live out her dream. This lovely summertime story explores being brave, trying new things, and celebrating all your wins. A glossary is included at the beginning of the book for the Yiddish and Hebrew words used throughout. The simple but appealing art utilizes a muted color palette with soft blues, greens, and purples. - Copyright 2026 Booklist.