Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 02/01/2024 Gr 9 Up—A quirky and fun supernatural graphic novel set in modern-day New Orleans. The story follows Chelsea Grant, who was finally accepted by the popular crowd at her new school, then got into a bit of trouble and landed herself a summer of having to work with her dad instead of hanging out with her friends. To make matters worse, her dad is the town joke because he runs a real-life ghost hunting business. What starts as punishment takes an unexpected turn when Chelsea realizes that she can actually see the ghosts her dad is hunting. Once she gets to know a few of them, she's not too sure if they should be exterminated. Even with her supernatural capabilities, Chelsea's character is relatable as she deals with normal teenage problems and current social issues. Themes of slavery and plantation history are carefully woven through the story. The authors, sisters, do a wonderful job of developing an authentic and strong protagonist who must deal with realistic problems, all while maintaining a bit of mystical flair. VERDICT An engaging narrative with gorgeous illustrations makes this a captivating graphic novel and a strong purchase for any collection.—Cat Miserendino - Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 02/01/2024 Chelsea Grant is a popular girl with a huge secret: her father works as a ghost-removal technician. Afraid of being an outcast again, Chelsea never talks about her dad, but when she and her friends get arrested for trespassing in a graveyard and her dad comes to pick her up, her secret's out. And worse, her punishment is working for her father over the summer. Their invitation to the Harrington Plantation Manor is intriguing, though, and as she investigates the manor, she realizes she can see ghosts, including the mysterious Oliver Harrington, and some of them have meaningful stories and shouldn't be destroyed. The Gibbses' enthralling comic is filled with the rich history and lore Louisiana is known for, especially the resonant stories of those who lived on plantations and the secrets they keep. Cannon's bright, vivid artwork, filled with evocative detail and a realistically diverse cast of characters, brings this Ghostbusters-like story to life, and a sprinkle of paranormal romance and a nuanced exploration of race and history will captivate readers looking for more than just a ghost story. - Copyright 2024 Booklist.