Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 07/01/2025 Gr 1–4—For some children, the ubiquitous school project of creating a family tree can produce anxiety. How do they represent nontraditional families? In this tender and lushly illustrated story, Emmylou dreads the day she must share her family tree. Unlike the other students, she does not have a big, loving family. Emmylou, whose hearing is impaired, lives alone with her mother. She knows nothing about her father or grandfather, and her mother is tight-lipped about family. As Emmylou sorrowfully assesses that her family is different, memories of her neighbors float into her mind. She remembers how Mr. Li patiently taught her to bike and how willingly Mrs. Patel shares mango chutney and wisdom with her. When Emmylou babysits the children next door, she feels responsible as well as loved. As she recognizes the special relationships in her life, she cannot escape a big thought: "there are no spots for neighbors on family trees." Hu alters the watercolor tones throughout the story to reflect Emmylou's mood. Blues predominate when Emmylou is downhearted, but whenever she reflects on the actions of her caring neighbors, the tones of orange and yellow suffuse the illustrations, palpably offering readers the warmth of her memories. VERDICT A beautiful reflection on the wonders of a found family, and an important book for the shelves; blended families, chosen families--all will find succor in this volume.—Sally James - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 10/01/2025 *Starred Review* The familiar family-tree school project is thoughtfully explored in this beautifully illustrated, tender story. Emmylou’s class is presenting their family trees this week, which fills her with dread. While her classmates have sprawling trees with many branches, Emmylou’s has only two: Mama and herself. She knows nothing about her father or grandfather, and only that her grandmother’s name is Louella—her mother shares nothing more. Unlike her peers, who learned to ride bikes from relatives, Emmylou was taught by their neighbor, Mr. Li. She is also close with other neighbors, including Mrs. Patel, who shares mango chutney, and Rosa, whose twins she helps out with after school. Watching another classmate present an expansive family tree makes Emmylou even more anxious about her own. That evening, through her “good ear,” she hears Rosa wishing her good night through their shared wall. This offers Emmylou both comfort and inspiration. The next day, Emmylou presents her small family tree and explains how her tree has grown through her found family of caring neighbors. She proudly shares how they stick together . . . like families do.” Stunning textured watercolor illustrations chart her journey from loneliness and uncertainty to hope and belonging. A moving, sensitive portrait of blended and chosen families. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.