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New Wallenta Family’s Punk Taco Book Features Work of Alex G. ’27
On October 13, 2026, Hopkins student Makana W. '29 and his father, Adam Wallenta, will release a new book, Punk Taco Adventures Volume 2, which also features artwork by Alex G. '27.
Punk Taco is a graphic novel series created by Makana and his father Adam. Originally self-published in 2018, their first volume won the 2019 Ringo Award for "Best Kids Comic or Graphic Novel," and a Kids Comics Award for "Best Sci-Fi or Fantasy Book." Makana and Adam released their second volume in 2022, which was again nominated for a 2022 Ringo Award for "Best Kids Comic or Graphic Novel."
In January 2026, graphic novel publishing house Papercutz released a brand new Punk Taco Adventures Volume 1, featuring art and stories by Makana, as well as 7th grader, Cecelia C. ’32, a former art student of Adam's. Both students’ work appears alongside that of veteran cartoonists including Mike Cavallaro (Nico Bravo), Ryan Estrada (The Banned Book Club), and legendary musician and artist, Chuck D from Public Enemy. Punk Taco Adventures Volume 1 was a 2026 Indie Book Awards Finalist.
Punk Taco is available everywhere books are sold. Look for Volume 2 next month.
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Hopkins is a private middle school and high school for grades 7-12. Located on a campus overlooking New Haven, CT, the School takes pride in its intellectually curious students as well as its dedicated faculty and staff.
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