Creative Genius (Nina Peanut #1)

Young Nina dreams of becoming an internet sensation on popular video-sharing platform BoogleToob. Her content—which features her geriatric cat with a penchant for flatulence, as well as a potato that resembles a human face—initially only garners attention from her doting grandmother and friend Brian. But when Nina and her rival Megan, whose own channel enjoys widespread popularity, are teamed up for their school’s upcoming talent show, their online worlds collide. Megan’s attempts to humiliate Nina cause Nina’s popularity to skyrocket, an event that only escalates the tension between them. Using storytelling punctuated with sight humor, engaging asides, and delightfully absurd scenarios, Bowie (Kevin’s in a Mood) probes deep into the essence of friendship, the allure of popularity, and the often-overlooked realities of life behind the camera. Simple artwork featuring minimalistic backgrounds enhances thematic focus, while vibrant monochromatic coloring and dynamic dialogue balloons create visual intrigue and aid narrative flow. Skillfully balancing lighthearted entertainment with poignant observations on youthful experiences in the digital age, Bowie crafts a compelling story for readers navigating their own online and offline worlds. Nina’s skin tone matches the white of the page; Brian and Megan are rendered with brown skin. Ages 8–12. Agent: Lydia Silver, Darley Anderson Literary. (Aug.)