IZZY WONG’S DRAMA DISASTER

Someone is trying to turn the sixth graders against each other—can an aspiring podcaster expose the truth?

After solving a mystery at her old school, Izzy Wong transfers to the prestigious Danforth School for the Arts—the perfect setting for the second season of her true crime podcast. She quickly uncovers bitter rivalries; everyone is competing for something, from the lead in the school play to social media followers. Izzy realizes that these hostilities might be story-worthy when the show’s handsome, talented star, Brody Hogan, becomes the subject of a mean-spirited meme created by an anonymous bully using artificial intelligence―and soon, other kids are targeted. Enrolled in both the acting and technical arts tracks to hone her podcasting skills, Izzy is caught between the two cliques, accepted by neither. Izzy knows she can expose the culprit if she follows her journalistic instincts, but how can she solve the mystery when her classmates won’t sit down for interviews? Like the first series installment, this tale captures the technical aspects of podcasting and journalism while also offering thoughtful takes on the value of human-created art over AI, the cost of fame, and the contributions of those working behind the scenes. Though the central conflict is relatively tame, suspenseful pacing, compelling supporting characters, and realistic plot twists make for a welcome return to Izzy’s world. Hints in the text suggest that Izzy is of Chinese heritage.

A fast-paced mystery with a gentle dose of the promised drama.