Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 03/15/2023 *Starred Review* The creators of I Talk like a River (2020) here pay homage to Scott's grandmother and her pivotal role in his childhood. Every day, Dad drives Jordan to Baba's house: a converted chicken coop next to a sulfur mill, beside a highway. Baba feeds him breakfast (oatmeal with butter and vegetables from her garden) and then walks him to and from school; on rainy days, they collect worms to add to Baba’s garden. She doesn’t speak much English, but the two communicate through gestures, food, and the loving bond they share. Smith's evocative watercolor-and-gouache illustrations are rendered in a primitive style, reminiscent of paintings a young child might create. He uses grays, greens, and blues predominantly, effectively representing the rainy climate of British Columbia's southwest coast, where the story is set. Facial features are often abbreviated or lacking, and most edges are blurred, suggesting that memory is not always 20/20. The details of Baba's house (garden produce in every nook and cranny, photos from the old country, sunlight streaming through her kitchen window) and garden encourage extended viewing, as will tender, quiet moments between the two characters. When Baba's home is razed, she moves to Jordan's house. Much changes (no garden, no daily walks) but the grandparent-child bond remains strong. Share this heartfelt testament to family widely. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.