Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 10/01/2013 Gr 4–6—Jack Strong feels like the most overscheduled middle schooler in the world. His parents, who want him to be prepared for college, have enrolled him in every enrichment activity possible, including cello, tutoring, karate, and Chinese lessons. One day, he decides to go on strike. He stages a sit-in on his couch and refuses to get up until his parents let him quit some of the extracurriculars. The local TV station takes an interest, which leads to protests and counter-protests outside his home. It also creates disruptions within his family, as his father opposes him, his grandmother staunchly supports him, and his mother tries to keep the peace. Jack is a thoroughly likable character with a wry sense of humor, and, as he narrates his story, readers will understand his frustration. Mendes's cartoon sketches are a good match for this funny and fast-moving tale. As the whole situation spirals out of control, Greenwald successfully melds plot and character surprises to engage youngsters and brings the story to an emotionally satisfying conclusion. Both avid and reluctant readers will enjoy meeting Jack Strong.—Carole Phillips, Greenacres Elementary School, Scarsdale, NY - Copyright 2013 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 09/15/2013 Jack Strong likes Little League. And he doesn’t mind playing the cello. But he could live without his Chinese lessons. Ditto karate, swimming, and tennis. On the day he is too tired to go to soccer practice, he makes a decision: he will stay on the couch until his parents let him drop some of his activities. So begins an amusing crusade that finds Jack couch bound (food and bathroom breaks allowed) while events swirl around him. His parents argue, a school newspaper picks up his story, and finally a TV reporter gets wind of Jack’s stand, causing new problems. Jack (introduced in Charlie Joe Jackson’s Guide to Summer Vacation, 2013) is an everyday hero that kids, especially of the overscheduled variety, will identify with. Though some of the adult characters are sketched in, rather than fully fleshed out, they usefully present other points of view. Lots of line drawings and an approachable design will make this readily accessible to reluctant readers, but this is sure to entice a wide range of kids, who may just want to stage standoffs themselves. - Copyright 2013 Booklist.

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