This interview originally appeared in the January/February 2025 Horn Book Magazine as part of the Publishers’ Previews: New Books for Emerging Readers, an advertising supplement that allows participating publishers a chance to each highlight a book from its current list. They choose the books; we ask the questions.

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Picture-book and chapter-book creator Angela Dominguez tries something new in Gabby Torres Gets a Billion Followers, the first in a new graphic novel series for younger readers about a girl who is very sure of herself.

Photo: Kyle Schuster.

1. Which of your early talents did you most, uh, overestimate?

Singing. As a child, I loved humming along with musicals. I soon realized that I was not gifted with that talent. But my lack of talent doesn’t stop me from singing loudly alone in the car. I also think that, earlier in my life, I overestimated my art skills. Art school was humbling in a good way and pushed me to develop my abilities.

2. What about the comics form presented the most ­unexpected challenge?

I never anticipated that speech bubbles would be so difficult to master! Learning how to use them well took quite a bit of practice. I leaned on studying many graphic novels and on dear friends for advice.

3. What is the trickiest part about social media for you?

Can I say all of it? Part of my issue is the amount of misinformation online. Social media also allows people to comment without consequences, which makes it easier to be unkind. It can be a tricky place for people of all ages, not just for Gabby. That said, I do enjoy all the adorable pet videos and seeing what friends are up to. And I love discovering a great read or an interesting author online.

4. Were you a club joiner/creator?

I was too shy in elementary school to join anything, so I lived vicariously through the Baby-Sitters Club. As an art instructor, I formed a children’s book illustration club at my university. People, especially creatives, need community. It’s something I wish I had during graduate school.

5. I see that Gabby’s return is already in the works. What qualities does a character need to sustain a series?

I don’t have the magic formula. But Gabby is impulsive, funny, and a big part of who I am. I often wonder about how she or I would react to situations and possibly learn from them. I think if I keep that curiosity, she’ll have the legs to go a long way.

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