Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 10/01/2025 Gr 1–3—Hoover's latest graphic novel is a unique early reader with an interactive plot-your-own-story element that is sure to be a hit with reluctant readers. The book features two best friends, Dragon and Unicorn, in three stories as they navigate friendship conflict in a way that allows readers to choose the characters' next move. The text is accessible in its length and vocabulary. The plot incorporates social-emotional learning, providing an opportunity for readers to experience the results of different choices in a way that inspires empathy. The characters work through interpersonal conflicts and explore friendship and better communication. Wiley's digitally rendered illustrations are playful, combining bold colors and lines for the two characters, who are set against pastel backgrounds. This makes Dragon and Unicorn stand out, especially in their movements and facial expressions, which are essential to the social-emotional aspects of the book. The two characters are portrayed as opposites, and their expressions can be clearly understood despite not being human. Due to the plot-your-own-story format, this will work best in print. VERDICT This interactive book is recommended for its unique format and accessibility to reluctant readers and is a great choice for collections looking to expand offerings that feature unicorns and dragons.—Taylor Skorski - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.