Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 07/01/2023 PreS-Gr 1—A small glimpse into the everyday lives and possibilities of life as a "brotha" are shown in this book. Mance highlights the mundane "brothas wait for the bus" to the far out "brothas float…and fly." With each experience, a sense of unity comes to life and an excellent mirror is provided for those students who might not see themselves in the everyday classroom read-aloud. The text and vocabulary are all daily things students know or excellent sight words, standing clearly against the page while describing the picture. The illustrations Mance has created are also eye-catching, with colors and activities flowing from one page to the next. These provide excellent context clues for some words that describe less simple activities, or the same word in different ways. For example, "play" is shown as playing an instrument, playing basketball, and playing video games in separate pictures. Altogether, Mance has created a resonant reflection of everyday life for those learners who are discovering the possibilities of the world around them, but who also want to see their brothas in a book. VERDICT A great read-aloud to show a vibrant community, whether in a mirror or a window.—Margaret Kennelly - Copyright 2023 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.