Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 10/01/2016 Through simple text and dramatic illustrations, this picture book from the illustrator of Wall (2014) tells a story about the power of community. A much-loved young prince is left in charge of the kingdom when his parents sail away, until the country is suddenly invaded and the prince captured and imprisoned far away. He escapes and attempts the difficult journey home, pursued by his captors. But help is at the ready, from individuals to everyone in his kingdom, banding together to hide him in plain sight and face down his pursuers. Touches of red appear throughout Cole’s illustrations, often outlining the prince and the landscape. Most of the scenes are set at night, with a preponderance of diagonal lines capturing mountains, prison cells, stairwells, and rooftops, adding to the dramatic impact. Two-page spreads are interspersed with panels and single-page illustrations, adding a rhythm to the escape and chase. Pair with The Whispering Town (2014) for another version of a community sheltering those in need. - Copyright 2016 Booklist.

School Library Journal - 10/01/2016 K-Gr 3—In the absence of a boy's royal parents, strangers have invaded the island kingdom of Avala and imprisoned the young prince. Shortly after this disheartening start, the boy and his dog manage to escape. As the prince makes his way to the capital, his distinctive red pajamas draw the attention of his pursuers. Fortunately, the people are willing to help, and in their final act of defiance, the nation unites to save its beloved royal; the predominant blues get swept away by a sea of red. At all times, the illustrator's digital coloring is dazzling and evocative, establishing a tone of tension and courage. Even the background color of the text boxes reflects this by changing to tonal hues. As a whole, the visuals have a cinematic quality; shots are nicely framed and showcase a variety of perspectives to pull readers in. While the narration only summarizes events, some sequential images do flesh out the details. Older readers will find it difficult to believe that a horde of unarmed people could possibly drive an armed force away so peaceably. However, those who accept the fairy tale-like setting will have no problem seeing the charm of this optimistic tale. VERDICT A visually stunning work about a brave young boy and a people who come together to defend him. Sure to satisfy fans of fairy tales.—Rachel Forbes, formerly at Oakville Public Library, Ont., Canada - Copyright 2016 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.