Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 03/27/2026 PreS-Gr 2—In an era with more extreme wind and weather, as well as intense and destructive fires, this addition to the familiar series is timely. It contains the signature elements of the previous books: clever rhymes in an engaging and satisfying story, helpful, hardworking construction vehicles, and colorful illustrations that enrich the narrative. In this story, high wind topples an electrical pole, and a live wire ignites the fire. With the help of specialized fire vehicles, including Engine (also known as Pumper), Command Vehicle, Ladder Truck, Tiller Truck, Foam Tender, Brush Truck, the "brave, tough" construction vehicles work through the night to put out the fire and then clean the site. While Rinker's text explains how each fire vehicle works in concert with the others, Ford's illustrations showcase the different features of the fire vehicles. The cross-section of Engine is particularly detailed, with labels and lines showing the water tank, hoses, nozzles, and oxygen tanks; these will appeal to children who love knowing everything about trucks. At the end, Rinker states that "Fire can be scary, but there are ways to stay safe" and includes fire tips for children, including knowing their escape plan, yelling for help, staying low, and knowing how to call 911. VERDICT This positive story of teamwork to extinguish a fire safely celebrates the brave men and women who are firefighters in a way that children will understand and applaud.—Sally James - Copyright 2026 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.