Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 05/01/2024 Gr 3–7—When Tyler's dad passed away, his only way of working through his depression was the challenge of solving the speed cube his dad had given him as a gift. Now three years later, Tyler, 12, has qualified to compete in the speed cubing national championship in Las Vegas. This colorfully illustrated novel interspersed with comic panels showcases Tyler and five other competitors as they compete for the title of National Champion. There's the young superstar Dirk who refuses to be anything but the best, the elderly Miles who's determined to have one last moment of glory, the young prodigy Eli with a dad who is obsessed with him outperforming everyone, and the twins Lizzy and Izzy who are struggling with what it means to be individuals. Together, they learn that it's OK to make mistakes and that competitive speed cubing is more about building a supportive community than trophies. Most characters are depicted with light skin. Tyler is Filipino American and Lizzy and Izzy have dark skin with black hair. VERDICT A fun, feel-good look into the world of competitive speed cubing that will surely inspire young readers to pick up a cube for themselves.—Amanda Melilli - Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.