Bound To Stay Bound

Other - 02/24/2025 Though cantankerous goldfish Toasty is the only pet at Number 3 Ramshorn Drive, he’s not the favorite inhabitant of aspiring young botanist Jillian Tupper; that designation belongs to a bubbly, self-centered plant called Ivy. From his antique octagonal tank in the foyer, Toasty bickers amiably with Ivy, occasionally splashing her to emphasize his points, and enjoys cheese puffs pilfered by the flora. The arrival of two new creatures-inquisitive spider Arthur and a shy violet plant named Ollie-upends the pair’s comfortable routine and leads to the discovery that Toasty’s fish tank is magical. With a carefully targeted splash, the plants are imbued with special powers: Ivy can lift heavy objects and Ollie becomes invisible, abilities that prove useful with the third-act arrival of a devious antique collector bent on obtaining the fish tank. Chatty asides from Ferry (The Peddler of Puddles) provide context and vocabulary lessons as a buoyant, omniscient narrator skillfully conveys the foursome’s idiosyncrasies, particularly Toasty’s sense of isolation and accompanying crankiness. Neat spot illustrations by the Fan brothers (Barnaby Unboxed!), rendered in their signature style, convey humorous details such as both Toasty and Arthur sporting fetching bowler-style hats. Ages 6-9. Author’s agent: Elena Giovinazzo, Heirloom Literary. Illustrators’ agent: Kirsten Hall, Catbird Agency. (May) - Copyright 2025

School Library Journal - 07/25/2025 Gr 2–5—A grumpy fish. An optimistic houseplant. An old house full of oddities. In this cozy, character-driven chapter book, Ivy the ivy and Toasty the fish form an unlikely alliance with a book-loving spider and other curious creatures who enter the home of Jillian Tupper, a budding botanist, and her antique-dealer parents. Told in a warm and engaging narrative, the story gently explores themes of belonging, patience, and the quiet magic of being seen. Ferry's prose is contemplative and whimsical, with a narrative voice that occasionally breaks the fourth wall with adroit drollness. Ivy's naive narcissism and Toasty's cheese puff obsession—along with the delightfully distinct personalities of the supporting cast—add depth, humor, and heart. Though the pace is unhurried, the emotional beats land well, and the evolving friendships are delicately rendered. The Fans' grayscale illustrations are as atmospheric as ever, infusing elements of the home with texture and charm. Most of the human characters are depicted with paper-white skin. While the plot builds to an exciting climax, the gentle pacing and reassuring narration maintain a cozy, comforting tone throughout. VERDICT A meditative, charming delight for readers who appreciate stories of found family and quiet transformation. A solid purchase for elementary fiction collections.—Rose Garrett - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.