Bound To Stay Bound

Other - 06/23/2025 Momentarily startled to discover a fourth egg in her nest-one that looks nothing like the other three she has laid-Mama Duck quickly regains her composure: "There is nothing wrong with being different. They are my eggs, and when they hatch, they will be my ducklings." But while he is unconditionally loved, bubblegum-hued Nort, who is instantly recognizable as a baby dragon, has none of his family’s aquatic talents. Could it be that he’s not a "Quacking Duckling" after all? Nort checks in with the farm’s oinking, mooing, and clucking contingents, and finds he doesn’t fit those categories, either. Only when a ravenous wolf declares Nort its dinner does he realize he’s in a category all his own: "A FIRE-BREATHING DUCKLING!" Blending the feel of classic Disney comics, a venerable fairy tale, and Are You My Mother? plotting, Cammuso transforms an identity quest into a funny but pointed reminder that family is about connection. Ages 5-7. (Aug.) - Copyright 2025

School Library Journal - 08/01/2025 Gr 1–3—In this appealing spin on Hans Christian Andersen's "The Ugly Duckling," a mama duck finds a strange egg in her nest. When it hatches, a red, reptilian creature entirely unlike its siblings emerges. Despite the love and acceptance shown by his family, the "duckling" becomes conscious of his differences and goes on a quest to seek belonging amongst a variety of barnyard animals. Although he doesn't find quite what he seeks, his true fire-breathing nature comes out with a flourish when his animal friends are threatened by a menacing wolf, and the other creatures rally around him with gratitude. Appealing in its simplicity, this graphic novel offers uplifting themes of embracing one's unique qualities and recognizing positive differences in others. Brightly colored illustrations are expressive and gently rounded, reminiscent of classic mid-20th-century animation. Back matter includes guidance for guardians and educators to help them incorporate literacy-bolstering techniques as they enjoy graphic novels with their young readers. VERDICT Sure to please both animal lovers and fairy-tale fans, this graphic novel for emerging readers is a recommended purchase for collections.—Allison Tran - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.