Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 09/01/2017 Gr 4–6—Davy Davidson lives a bleak existence. His mother died in childbirth, and the children's home he was raised in has long since closed. His small town is run by a menacing, hypocritical parson who is determined to drive out of town those who don't subscribe to puritanical values. Now 13 and on his own, Davey takes solace in art. His life changes when he meets the eccentric Miss Flint, who plans to die on her 80th birthday in her childhood home and needs a driver to take her there. Initially just a business arrangement, the road trip evolves into a miraculous journey as Davy and Miss Flint race against time and develop a close friendship. Part one has a somewhat dystopian tone. It is difficult to get a sense of the time period or setting, and it is unclear why the parson has so much power. Many minor characters are introduced in this section who are never to be seen again. When Davy and Miss Flint meet, it's a welcome relief. Part two takes place in a somewhat more familiar world and adds some needed energy and humor. The characters are unlikely friends and an enjoyable pair of outlaws. The novel takes a fantastical turn when Miss Flint begins to age backwards. VERDICT This fairy tale—like novel has good potential as a read- aloud and is just quirky enough to not be sentimental.—Juliet Morefield, Belmont Library, Portland, OR - Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 10/01/2017 Davy David is an orphan in the conservative town of Brownvale, which is controlled by corrupt Parson Fall. Davy’s sanctuary is the town library, where he pores over a book titled Renaissance Angels, before creating his own art in the dirt, using twigs and a broom. Scary old Miss Flint, who has been watching him, engages the 13-year-old to drive her to her final resting place, a cottage on the ocean 200 miles away. Along the way, they and Davy’s adopted mutt, George, engage in some larceny, experience a miracle or two, and find forgiveness and a new home. Frequent references to It’s a Wonderful Life indicate the tone of this story, a bittersweet gem of tenderness and imagination. Although not a humorous book, there are definite moments of levity, as when the two grant a truckload of stolen turkeys their freedom on Christmas Eve. It may be challenging to find the audience, but the payoff is a charming adventure with a hero (and his dog) who will warm your heart. - Copyright 2017 Booklist.