Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 06/01/2017 Gr 4–6—An exploration of family and how sometimes special bonds demand great sacrifices. Pablo washed up on the beach of Isla strapped to a baby pool 10 years ago, along with Birdy, a flightless parrot. Where he came from and how he ended up in the ocean with only Birdy to watch over him are mysteries—ones Pablo allows himself to think about only on the anniversary of that fateful day. Isla is a picturesque beachside town famous for its birds, including one whose existence has never been verified: the Seafaring Parrot, who, according to local legend, has seen all and remembers all. As the anniversary of Pablo's arrival nears, a storm is predicted that will bring with it the "winds of change," which spell fortune lost or fortune gained. The only one who may know about Pablo's origins is Birdy. But unlike many of the birds on the island, Birdy doesn't talk. That is, until the winds of change arrive. By the time the storm is over, Pablo will have felt a whirlwind of emotions and learned that feeling sad about what he has lost doesn't take away from what he has achieved. VERDICT This understated book will appeal to readers who savor interpersonal relationships more than action-packed plots.—Lucia Acosta, Children's Literature Specialist, NJ - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 08/01/2017 Almost 10 years ago, a baby and his violet-plumed parrot washed ashore on Isla, a small Caribbean island. Now that baby has grown into a thoughtful boy named Pablo, who is never seen without his beloved parrot, Birdy. Quaint and cheerful, the island is populated by talking tropical birds, a diverse population of immigrants, and a constant stream of tourists seeking out the legendary Seafarer Parrot, a bird rumored to appear only when the “winds of change” blow. As his tenth birthday approaches, Pablo is consumed by questions about his life before Isla, and Birdy begins acting strangely. McGhee’s serene narrative sensitively examines Pablo’s struggle to understand his own story, as well as the difficult concept that love can be shown by letting someone go. The narrative lightly touches on circumstances related to immigration, which could easily segue to a more in-depth discussion at home or in the classroom. Juan’s graphite illustrations radiate warmth and whimsy, making them the finishing touch on this enchanted tale for contemplative readers. - Copyright 2017 Booklist.