Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 03/01/2025 Gr 5 Up—In the small town of Upton Falls, NY, sixth grader Halima dreams of having a real-life chess partner. While her cousin Abdi in Kenya helps improve Halima's game over video chat, virtual chess is just not the same as the real thing. Encouraged by her best friend Jem, Halima bravely suggests starting a chess club at their middle school. As Halima and her new companions become more adept at playing chess, they find themselves growing stronger in their friendships, as well. This engaging, early middle grade story revolves around the game of chess both in its design and in the narrative itself. Told from multiple points of view in the third person, the plot develops from several angles and offers readers insight into each character's motives and emotions. Occasional illustrations are incorporated throughout the novel, and these images serve as both a visual respite and a guide for learning the fundamentals of chess. Several of the illustrations are diagrams of specific moves on a chess board, which enhances understanding of plays that are detailed in the narrative. Though relatively brief, this story is robust in depth and thoughtful in delivery, chronicling the development of a group of friends through the lens of chess. Diverse characters and positive role modeling may mean that this book resonates with youth and adults alike. VERDICT This is an uplifting addition to library collections for newly confident middle grade readers.—Mary R. Lanni - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 06/01/2025 Halima, Jem, Parker, and Daniel might not seem like they have much in common. At first, they don’t. But when Halima starts a chess club, her best friend, Jem, steps up to recruit people. The four club members’ friendship grows, as do their chess skills. Each has their own motivation and backstory for joining the club, as well as their own challenges to face. Yet, like chess, each is part of the whole, and the middle- schoolers learn to work together as a team. Duffy’s intermittent illustrations offer insight into playing chess, clarifying pieces and rules for readers who may be less familiar with the game. Donnelly’s character work shines, as chapters shift among the club members’ POVs. Each character is well crafted with relatable concerns, obstacles, and fears—from Daniel’s friendship struggles to Jem’s joy at finding queer community to Parker’s desire to stand out in a family of all-stars to Halima’s desire to help others love chess like she does. A realistic portrayal of middle school with a focus on friendship, community, and healthy relationships. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.