Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 11/01/2025 Gr 2–5—Alexander makes his chapter book debut with this sweet tale of a young Black girl speaking up for her community. Third grader Macy has so much music in her life, from her poet father's beloved daily recitations to her younger brother's annoying rap habit, and even her own (humorously fraught) violin practice sessions. She also loves to tune out the world and read. When she finds out the school library's hours have been reduced due to budget cuts, Macy and her fellow bookish friend Blue decide to stage a protest at the upcoming board meeting. Even though Macy has so much to say, it will take a little bit of inspiration and a lot of support from friends and family to help her find that perfect poem deep inside. Tender and powerful, this unique chapter book in verse is a delight. Young readers will learn about poetic form and music terminology while they follow Macy through her life with people who love and encourage her. Thomas's monochrome illustrations make the narrative come alive, deftly capturing character mood and tone. The text swoops and swirls, inflates and italicizes to express Macy's relatable worry over nailing her minuet solo or that her father won't be able to keep a promise. The musicality of this novel would make it perfect for small-group read-alouds. VERDICT A beautiful book centering an endearing protagonist that hits all the right notes; highly recommended for elementary fiction shelves.—Ashleigh Williams - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Other - 11/10/2025 In this effervescent chapter book by Alexander (Black Star), 80 snappy poems recount a bookish tween’s love for her library. Twelve-year-old Macy can’t wait to pick up the next installment of her new favorite book series, The Mighty Zora, from the school library. But first, she must practice her violin. Poems relayed primarily in Macy’s endearing first-person POV convey feelings of joy, anticipation, and disgruntlement, and burst with humor; in one selection, lines get progressively longer as she details staying up late reading ("Yes/ Yes, I stayed up/ Yes, I stayed up till 11:34 p.m./ Yes, I stayed up till 11:34 p.m. last night"). Following rehearsal, Macy arrives at the library ("a house/ of hope"), only to discover that it’s closed due to budget cuts. Resolving to speak up at an upcoming board meeting, she attempts to write a poem she believes will save the institution. Softly rounded illustrations from Thomas (Stacey Speaks Up) emanate charm, accompanying stanzas that provide glimpses into the exuberant life of a self-assured middle schooler readers will wish was their own best friend. Macy’s desire to help the library underscores the importance of similar community spaces, culminating in a winning narrative about the power of language and learning to stand up for one’s beliefs. Characters are depicted with varying abilities, body types, and skin tones. An author’s note concludes. Ages 6-10. Author’s agent: Arielle Eckstut, Levine Greenberg Rostan Literary. Illustrator’s agent: Chad W. Beckerman, CAT Agency. (Feb.) - Copyright 2025

Booklist - 01/01/2026 *Starred Review* This delightful chapter book tells Macy's story through poetry and music. Alexander captures the highs and lows of Macy's life, from beautiful family moments to a sometimes-frustrating brother. Macy's birthday brings wondrous gifts, including a much-desired book. After she stays up late reading her new book, she's desperate for book 2. Arriving at school early to discover the cliffhanger's conclusion, Macy instead finds a new nail-biter: the library is closed. Macy isn't the only one upset by this budget-cut-driven development—her fellow students, teachers, and her parents are just as upset. But what can be done? A school board meeting offers Macy the chance to use her voice, but she isn't sure she's up for that . . . or for her upcoming violin recital. Macy's struggles are relatable, including missing her dad while he travels for work, getting that look from Mom, and having to practice when she'd rather be playing. The heart of Macy's story is found in the way her family and community come together to fight for their library. Tender family scenes, quiet moments of friendship, and the utter joy of language are woven into the verse. Thomas' beautiful black-and-white artwork adds to the delight of Alexander's spectacular verse. An excellent choice for independent readers and classroom read-alouds. Like Macy, this story is one of a kind. - Copyright 2026 Booklist.