Bound To Stay Bound

Other - 12/01/2025 In this moving tale of animal friendship and found family by Warga (A Strange Thing Happened in Cherry Hall), a rescue dog befriends an orphaned cheetah cub as part of a zoo’s conservation program. When her mother abruptly dies, Chase is left alone as the only cheetah in the facility. Meanwhile, pooch Finnegan-discovered lost and injured in the woods-is adopted by sympathetic humans, one of whom is the zoo’s lead cheetah trainer. After Finnegan recovers, he’s partnered with Chase as a cheetah ambassador dog. Following an initial adjustment period, the two young animals become inseparable friends, with Finnegan giving Chase much-needed confidence and companionship. In return, Chase provides steadfast comfort for Finnegan, who struggles to manage his fear of storms and abandonment. The animalian protagonists’ spare dual third-person POVs present a charming story that examines human and animal interactions by centering the growing emotional bond between Chase and Finnegan as well as their human handlers. Drawing inspiration from similar real-life programs, per an author’s note, Warga offers an accessible point of entry for curious animal lovers, culminating in a compassionate work that additionally addresses issues of anxiety and trauma. Background human characters cue as racially diverse. Ages 8-12. Agent: Brenda Bowen, Book Group. (Mar.) - Copyright 2025

School Library Journal - 12/12/2025 Gr 5–8—Award-winning author Warga tells the heartfelt story of a recently orphaned cheetah named Chase and a rescue dog named Finnegan at a zoo. This seemingly improbable pair meets due to the zoo's cat ambassador program, intended to educate children about cheetahs. Chase's role is to show the children how cheetahs run, but she is afraid to perform. Finnegan is brought in to help Chase gain confidence. Though each has trouble trusting after their unfortunate pasts, the cheetah and dog soon form a bond that helps them to become braver and less anxious, to be unafraid to make mistakes, and to trust again. Warga deftly explores the inner thoughts and understandings of both animals as they adapt to their new circumstances. Their backstories are revealed a small bit at a time. This pacing reflects the way information is shared in a blossoming friendship and keeps animal-loving readers engaged. Back matter includes information on cheetahs, dogs, and cheetah conservation programs. VERDICT An uplifting and heartwarming story about friendship and the way it can change lives for creatures great and small; sure to leave an impact long after the last page. Hand to fans of Katherine Applegate's "One and Only" and Rosanne Parry's "Voice of the Wilderness" series.—Jane Scott - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.