Supa Nova (Supa Nova #1)

In this energetic graphic novel series launch, a solo debut, Timothy (Beyoutiful) offers timely messaging about sustainability and environmental preservation. Young science prodigy Nova, rendered with brown skin, intends to eradicate plastic waste. Inspired by microorganisms in nature that consume plastic, Nova takes to her underground basement lab to conduct experiments. Using mushrooms, worms, lemon juice, a “few other special ingredients,” and her older sister’s chewed bubblegum, Nova develops Chomp, a pink, jellylike creature that eats plastic. But when Chomp begins devouring more than plastic and starts to double in size, Nova must enlist her sister and their scientist parents to her creation from gobbling up the world. Intelligent, confident, and capable Nova—along with her supportive family and their gentle ribbing—model healthy attitudes around creativity, curiosity, and accountability. Though Nova’s experiments often rely on fantastical sensibilities, a closing section detailing “the real science behind the story” grounds the featured antics, while bright and kinetic artwork contribute to the novel’s cheerful atmosphere. Ages 7–10. (June)