Svetlana is a Russian-Canadian comic book artist. She is best known for Dramacon. An original English-language manga. Her other original work includes Awkward and Nightschool. She went to school at Sheridan College Trafalgar Campus located in Canada. Svetlana has been given the awards of the Joe Shuster Comics for kids and Dwayne McDuffie Award for kids’ comics. 

“Awkward” by Svetlana Chmakavo is an alluring graphic novel that jumps into the life of Penelope ‘Peppi’ Torres, a new student at BerryBrook Middle School. On Peppi’s first day, she has an embarrassing encounter with Jaime, which leads to a series of awkward moments and misunderstandings.

The story gracefully captures the struggles of middle school students, whether it’s teasing, making new friends, developing strong self-esteem, communicating effectively, establishing their own identity, and learning to take responsibility for one’s actions. Peppi’s journey to make amends with Jaime and her growth throughout the story are both touching and relatable.

Svetlana uses alluring and engaging artwork, bringing the characters and their emotions to life. The difference made between each character just adds how amazing the artwork is. Making this a great book for young readers who have felt out of place or awkward.