Pepper Page Saves the Universe

Pepper Page Saves the Universe
Landry Q. Walker
Eric Jones, Illustrator
First Second 2021
208 pages
Grades 4-7
Graphic Novel
The Infinite Adventures of Supernova series #1

Welcome to the year 2421. Orphaned Pepper is bullied at school and struggles to stay on top of her school work. She retreats into her vintage comic books from long-ago Earth, specifically the adventures of Supernova: the continuing saga of a teen girl superhero. One night at school after hours, Pepper spies her mean science teacher doing something sketchy. He seems to be tossing a cat into another dimension. Attempting to save the cat, Pepper throws herself in front of the machine and finds herself transported to another dimension: the world of Supernova. It gets even weirder when the cat talks to Pepper and she seems to be transforming into her hero. Does Pepper have what it takes to be a superhero? What will happen if she choses not to accept? And why did her teacher create this machine in the first place?

Walker and Jones have created a brand new series sure to appeal to kids who love sci-fic and superheroes. Pepper, socially awkward and powerless, has her dream come true as she transforms into her favorite superhero, becoming powerful and fabulous in the blink of an eye. What kids wouldn't want to be a secret superhero? This book ticks a lot of boxes and will gain a readership. So many graphic novels for kids that have come out recently are serious realistic memoirs or super-silly. Pepper Page is a welcome diversion and fun escape from reality. Although the main character is a girl, boys will enjoy this story as well. The full-color illustrations help to convey the plot and set the mood. Pepper's vintage comics appear slightly different, signaling to readers that they are in a separate story. The feline side-kick is a nice touch and will appeal to animal lovers. The first in a projected series, there should be more adventures for Pepper around the corner-so stay tuned!