Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 09/05/2025 PreS-Gr 2—The familiar story gets a heartwarming holiday makeover in this charming addition to the "Horton" series. One night, Horton the elephant hears a faint, beautiful sound that the other animals in the Jungle of Nool cannot hear. The next night he hears a wobble; and the night after that he hears sizzling, accompanied by the smell of something tasty. Night after night, Horton notices new delights, but his cast of jungle friends detects nothing. At last, on the eighth night, the mysterious source is finally revealed when everyone sees a magnificent glowing menorah. The rabbi of Who-ville appears to explain the traditions of Hanukkah, including singing songs, playing dreidel, making latkes, and lighting the menorah, while emphasizing the central theme of religious freedom and that everyone, everywhere, deserves it. Though it lacks the abundance of classic expected made-up words, this book retains the beloved rhyming couplets and iconic illustrative style, making it a comfortable read. The artwork incorporates Hanukkah imagery in a way that feels fresh and inviting, and a helpful author's note at the end provides an accessible historical context for the holiday and its traditions. VERDICT Festive and educational, this title is an excellent choice for expanding holiday collections and introducing young readers to the traditions and spirit of Hanukkah.—Melanie Leivers - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.