Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 07/01/2022 K-Gr 2—Cat, in collared shirt, suspenders, and pants, is an angry hermit that lives in a cardboard box in a vacant lot. In this cartoon representation of the urban decay of a city center, Cat learns the importance of friendship and community by saving the life of Pigeon. Pigeon and Cat learn about each other through speech bubbles that hold emojilike icons; Pigeon heals, then flies away from the abandoned lot and brings back gifts for Cat that readers will recognize as chalk, crayon, and other supplies that can be used in service of art. Cat is resistant to traveling the world beyond his abandoned lot, but celebrates the gifts with rebus drawings on one of the walls facing the abandoned lot. However, one day Pigeon flies away and does not return; thus begins a growth opportunity for Cat, opening the curmudgeon's heart and leading to a joyful reunion with Pigeon. The exquisite, vibrant handcrafted oil paintings on board are paired with 10–20-word texts on Pigeon's and Cat's thoughts and actions. VERDICT A splendid paean to the power of art to heal, and the trifecta of friendship, persistence, and inclusivity to rebuild community. A delightful book.—Vi Ha - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 06/01/2022 Cat is a scrappy tabby in a patched shirt and suspendered slacks who lives in a cardboard box in an abandoned lot. The lot is Cat’s domain. He keeps it clear of intruders and only leaves to rummage for food. A storm alters his status quo when it upsets a bird’s nest. Cat rescues the one unbroken egg, which soon hatches a little pigeon and an unexpected friend. Pigeon, who chirps adorably in emojis, helps expand Cat’s horizons, but when she fails to return to the lot one night, Cat knows he must leave his familiar confines and search the city for her. As he does so, he leaves chalk-art messages for Pigeon on walls and sidewalks, and he is surprised by the friendliness and beauty he finds in the city’s streets. Eventually, the friends are reunited in a heartening conclusion of urban renewal and community. Hemingway fills his illustrations with entertaining details and variation (nighttime silhouettes, spot art, peeks into another perspective), creating a dynamic reading experience and a friendship tale worth reading. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.