Inkling

Ethan's dad created a mutant comic book hero that brought him and his publisher success, but since Ethan's mom died, he hasn't been able to draw much of anything.  He's barely even taking care of Ethan and his little sister Sarah.

Ethan wishes he had his dad's drawing ability, but he just doesn't.  He's been bluffing for years, and everyone at school thinks he's a great artist.  Now they are working on a group project to create a graphic novel, and his group nominates Ethan to do the art.  Is his secret about to be revealed?

Late one night, the ink on one of Ethan's dad's sketchbooks begins to move and twist and coalesce.  After a great deal of effort, the ink blob jumps free of the page.  Inkling is born!  He can think, he can learn, and he can draw!

Could Inkling be the solution to all their problems?

Kenneth Oppel's newest middle grade novel is good fun and adventure with a dose of moral philosophy.  When is it ok to use someone or something else for your own purpose?  Is it ever ok to take credit for someone else's work?  Comic panels illustrate the story and show Inkling's work.  This one does skew younger, but any middle school artist would enjoy this tale!  Recommended.