Bound To Stay Bound

Other - 12/16/2024 Dempsey spins an energetic time-travel yarn in this graphic novel debut. Penguin chums Pablo and Splash think they’re going on a simple vacation to visit their human friend Professor O’Brain, initially portrayed with pink hair and pale skin. But when they arrive-via a topsy-turvy tunnel from their polar dwelling to the professor’s lab-and find that O’Brain has vanished, cautious Pablo’s desire for a relaxing retreat dissolves (adventurous Splash, meanwhile, is excited for the excursion). They soon learn that Professor O’Brain’s sentient-and snarky-invention, TimeBender, has abandoned its creator 68,000 years in the past, in "Ice Age. Northern Europe." And if the penguin duo wants to rescue her, they must leave her cozy, snack-filled abode for unfamiliar, bison-populated terrain. Time-travel shenanigans add an unexpected bent to Splash’s devil-may-care nature and Pablo’s more sensible demeanor, which evoke Odd Couple dynamics familiar to the genre. Bouncy and brightly colored illustrations are accompanied by scientific facts surrounding the climate and animal extinction throughout. It’s a simultaneously chuckle-inducing and touching series launch that teaches about the value of home and friendship and encourages readers to be curious and seek adventure. Ages 7-10. Agent: Sallyanne Sweeney, MMB Creative. (Mar.) - Copyright 2024

School Library Journal - 05/01/2025 Gr 2 Up—Pablo and Splash are time-traveling penguins, and this set up leads to hilarious hijinks that readers won't be able to predict. First, the time machine itself becomes so upset with its creator, the Professor, that it strands her back during the Ice Age. Second, the penguins have a lot to figure out when their rescue of the Professor is interrupted by a caveman stealing the time machine. This book would work well for young readers in classroom or home read-alouds. Readers will be delighted and will watch the shelves for future installments. VERDICT The laughs never stop when penguins travel through time in this endearing second volume in the series. - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.