Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 10/01/2022 K-Gr 3—Merrin and Molly are best friends forever. Merrin lives in the water with her mermaid mother and Molly with her family on land. They play together, seeking sea glass and shells and looking forward to the Mermaid Moon Festival. One night each year, all sea creatures can fly out of the sea and spend time frolicking and celebrating on land. Merrin knows that she must return to the water before the moon sets, or the magic night will never return. Molly takes her friend home, and the mermaid marvels at things she has never seen: lamps, fluffy rugs, and a backyard swing. But while rushing to get back to the sea before it's too late, Molly has an accident and Merrin chooses to stay and help. She calls on a huge whale who flies to the rescue and swoops through the air with the girls on his back. When safely home, Merrin and Molly promise to repeat their adventure next year. The magic of the story is reinforced by moonlit watercolor illustrations, creating an enchanting story of friendship without boundaries. VERDICT Magic, moonlight, and mermaids enrich this story of friendship. The lovely scenery of an unusual setting will appeal to young readers.—Eva Elisabeth VonAncken - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.