Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 02/01/2026 Gr 3–7—A delightful middle grade novel that teaches a lesson about the importance and value of education. Ruby considers herself the "dumb twin" because she has been diagnosed with dyslexia/dysgraphia. She often struggles at school, especially in math. Her twin brother Bryce has been given a place at the prestigious Benton Academy, and Ruby must attend too because of scheduling. At Benton, it is very difficult for Ruby to keep up with the other students. However, she finds a way to express herself through an anonymous online forum, calling herself an imposter "mango" among the metaphorical lovebird student body. In this space, she discovers that other students at Benton are struggling too; but can she stay under the radar and still help those in need? This realistic fiction book paints a picture of the struggles a student must face, sometimes undetected. It also brings to light how students feel about their education and their parents' involvement in it. It reads quickly and is easy for readers to follow. The twins are cued white. VERDICT A story about belonging and neurodivergence; put this into the hands of any shy tween.—Natalie Wallace - Copyright 2026 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 02/01/2026 Ruby Emmerson is not enthused about leaving Lincoln Middle School and her best friend, Ella, behind to attend Benton Academy with Bryce, her twin. Diagnosed with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, she thinks of herself as the “dumb twin,” while her brother excels at school but struggles socially. Though challenged by high expectations at Benton, she finds a new friend in Thea. Embarrassed to share her struggles, Ruby creates an anonymous account, Confessions of a Mango, on ChatterCube to vent about the demands of Benton and not fitting in. Other students begin to air grievances about Benton on ChatterCube, and classmates bring mangoes to school in solidarity. There are safe mentor-mentee moments when her tutor, Keith, discloses that he also has dyslexia and that she actually scored in the top one percent but learns differently. Conflicts with Bryce expose a juxtaposition—learning each twin thinks they are the “dumb twin” is eye-opening to them. Hilariously chatty school parrot, Mr. Feathersworth, steals the show. Ruby’s internal “brave or smart” debate results in realistic, frank conversations with both her mom and Thea. An introspective and comforting read. - Copyright 2026 Booklist.