Izzy Wong’s Drama Disaster

  • Pages:224
  • Publisher:Orca Book Publishers
  • Themes:middle grade fiction, middle school, tween books, youth journalist, girl reporter
  •  
  • Available:03/17/2026
  • Lexile:600L
Paperback
9781459842366
$14.95
Ebook
9781459842380
$11.99

Izzy's starting at the local arts-based middle school where she'll be in both the performing and technical programs, since podcasting requires both sets of skills.

Soon Izzy learns that a rivalry divides the acting students, known as "the Talent", and the tech students, called "the Techies". Lately the rivalry is more bitter than ever because someone has been making nasty memes of Brody Hogan, one of the Talent.

Before long Izzy's podcast is up and running as she interviews classmates and gathers clues about who might be behind the memes—but it isn't easy keeping socially afloat in two different programs, let alone snooping around treating everyone like a suspect. Soon the memester moves on to other targets, including Izzy, and when Izzy's parents find out, they want her to go to the principal. Now Izzy has a deadline. Can she find the culprit before the case is out of her hands?

“Marty gets kids to really think about journalism, facts and what nuances there can be in a new story while also remaining true to the emotions, trials and tribulations of middle school. Izzy is such a great hero. Curious, brave, funny...and willing to admit when she’s wrong. I love these books!”
– Kevin Sylvester, award-winning author of Apartment 713
“Like the first series instalment, 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. Suspenseful pacing, compelling supporting characters, and realistic plot twists make for a welcome return to Izzy’s world. A fast-paced mystery with a gentle dose of the promised drama.”
– Kirkus Reviews