Power Up

Miles and Rhys know each other only as Gryphon and Backslash, and in the video game Mecha Melee they’re an unstoppable team. They’re the best friends they’ve got, online or in the real world, and they don’t even realise they go to the same middle school.But real-life wrong doing blasts their duo into a crater the size of Arcticon. With life online and off a complete mess and BattleCon - and the Every Game Ever tournament - just weeks away, can the boys play their way back to each other?

"Bright, vivid colors and varied layouts communicate the intensity, high stakes, and drama of the video game sequences, making them all the more immersive. In the midst of the action, at the story’s core is a sensitive narrative about the desire to find belonging. A high-scoring power combo of fast-action gaming and real-life friendship."—Kirkus Reviews   "Bold, colorful artwork full of dynamic action and an inclusive cast of characters make this graphic novel a quick and engaging read.... A fun and heartening story that shows that a new best friend could be right around the corner."—Booklist —

Sam Nisson has spent his working life creating worthwhile media for kids. For many years, he produced outstanding video games based on brands like I Spy and The Magic School Bus. More recently, he has worked on the Carmen Sandiego series on Netflix, and has written and directed audio shows for Pinna. He has been a constant gamer since the Atari 2600. These days, he lives in Brooklyn, where his three kids can beat him at most games most of the time. Darnell Johnson, a Miami, Florida native, discovered his passion for art when watching Saturday morning cartoons as a kid. He would spend time designing his own characters and making comics about them. It was in high school Darnell knew he wanted to pursue a career in art. Currently he lives in Alpharetta, Georgia, with his beautiful wife and son. Darnell pulls inspiration from his faith, family, friends, and life to pour into his illustrations. He hopes the lines, colors, and shapes he makes spark the imagination of young readers.