Bound To Stay Bound

Other - 06/23/2025 In this affecting fantasy, Romero (Tale of the Flying Forest) utilizes a devastatingly candid third-person narrative to render a group of climate crisis survivors fighting for a brighter future. Siblings Malka and Ezra are nine and seven when a flood engulfs the world, setting them adrift. They wash ashore on an island with an array of fellow castaways, one of whom, Dr. Jonas Hollman, becomes their guardian. Three years pass without word from the mainland, causing many to catch the Sorrow-an illness whereby prolonged grief and despair transforms people into terrifying beasts. Jonas is researching a cure by analyzing islanders’ tears, but Malka starts losing faith when Ezra begins exhibiting symptoms of the Sorrow. Then young pilot Olivia crash-lands on the beach. The aviator insists that the mainland is rebuilding and offers to arrange rescue upon repairing her plane. Jonas forbids his charges from helping, asserting that staying realistic about their circumstances is "the key to staying healthy." The kids, however, believe that it’s brave to have hope, and they commence assisting Olivia in secret. Lyrical prose, darkly whimsical worldbuilding, and an intersectionally diverse cast of exquisitely rendered, emotionally complex characters complement Romero’s inspiring plot, which advocates for mental health awareness as well as activism both social and environmental. Ages 8-12. Agent: Rena Rossner, Deborah Harris Agency. (Oct.) - Copyright 2025

School Library Journal - 10/03/2025 Gr 4–7—Malka and her younger brother Ezra survived the Flood and now live in isolation on the Island, with few survivors. Under the watchful and sinister eye of the Island's leader, they barely get by. When Ezra gets sick, Malka is desperate to find a cure, no matter the cost. Then, her life takes an unexpected turn when Olivia's plane crashes on the Island. Olivia's very presence as well as her knowledge of the outside world will have Malka questioning everything she thought she knew. This dystopian novel is filled with lyrical prose and adventure. Romero paints a vivid world that has been affected by climate change. Readers will be rooting for Malka to save Ezra and the other Islanders in this dark and powerful middle grade fairy tale that is infused with hope and fantasy. Readers will also find comfort in following along with Malka and Ezra's "recipes" for life. VERDICT A novel that handles heavy topics with a light touch; recommended for upper middle grade.—Shelby Newhouse - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.