Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 08/26/2022 PreS-Gr 2—There have been a spate of long-distance grandparent books this year, but it will be hard to find one more visually charming than this one. With die-cut holes, and constant patter of reassuring monologue, the young narrator explains why he or she cannot be with the grandmother now but how "See you someday soon" are watch words. Until the end of the book, they are never occupying the same space but never more than a few pages and a peephole away. It's not just space and distance that separate them, but time—the parents have jobs and a lot going on, and the grandparent or relative that is so far away has a life, too, of cats, and flowers, procured or maybe gardened, and making dinner. The pacing of the journey—there is a hug at the end—is so quiet and steady, like the beating of a hopeful heart about to get its dearest wish. This book will win over readers at both ends of the age range with the promise of the title and the narrator's clear-eyed belief that "soon" is not a movable post. This will happen. VERDICT This is a title sturdy enough for sharing, and soothing for all who live far from loved ones, as well as a handbook for the myriad ways to stay in touch before and after those precious visits.—Kimberly Olson Fakih - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 08/01/2022 How do Grandma and her grandchild “see” each other when they are far apart? This book uses clever cutouts to show how this amazing feat can be accomplished. The child imagines hopping on a rocket, strapping on a jet pack, or catapulting though the sky. But school, soccer, parents’ jobs, and money produce obstacles. How about sending letters and pictures, or phone calls? Better yet is a computer screen! Cutouts reveal the child’s new glasses, polka-dot socks, and bottle cap collection, as well as grandma’s room and flowers, and even the cat. But hugging is much better in person—the final window opens to show grandma and child together in the same happy place. Full-page illustrations in bright colors are overlaid with black-lined drawings of both characters' busy activities. The simple text will resonant with any child missing a loved one far away. The fun in peeking through the holes and then turning the page to reveal the picture will keep kids guessing what’s next. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.