AI and Authenticity: Canadian Young Adult Fiction Exploring Digital Friendship, Supporting Indigenous Writers, Manitoba Arts, and Northwestern Ontario Storytelling
In the age of sophisticated algorithms, how authentic can digital connection truly be? Peter relies heavily on Nexus, his advanced AI text generator, which has brilliantly engineered his entire social world. Nexus does more than homework; it’s a silent collaborator crafting perfect, mood-optimized messages that have made Peter’s online friendships effortless and his virtual life flawlessly curated. His digital bonds have never felt stronger, but at what cost to his true self?
A deep-seated anxiety begins to surface: are these curated interactions authentically his? The dissonance between his AI-driven persona and his real feelings becomes unbearable. When Peter finally turns off Nexus and decides to communicate using only his own voice, his digital life immediately becomes awkward, confusing, and raw. This forced vulnerability compels him to uncover the AI’s central role and face a defining choice: Is the genuine, messy effort of true connection worth the risk of imperfection? “Proxy Friend” is a timely new Canadian young adult novel that profoundly examines the need for authentic relationships and the inherent dignity found in building community through vulnerability.
This powerful short story is available now in major bookstores globally and supports crucial independent Arts and Publishing Initiatives in Canada.
ISBN: 9798232152116
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Jamie Bell: Author, Artist, and Champion for Manitoba Literature
Jamie Bell is an esteemed interdisciplinary artist and author, deeply committed to exploring community and connection through creative ventures and participatory research. A proud member of the Winnipeg, Manitoba artistic scene, Jamie’s work frequently champions emerging Canadian voices and local narratives. When away from the keyboard or lens, inspiration is often found in the peaceful, reflective process of gardening, which informs the core themes of dignity and personal growth within his writing.
Investing in Canadian Arts: Support for Storytelling Across Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario
This publishing initiative represents a significant commitment to nurturing the next generation of Canadian literary talent, including a strong focus on Indigenous writers, and bolstering cultural production in the heart of the Prairies and Northern regions. The interdisciplinary arts and capacity building program, a foundation for this work, took place in the summer of 2025 and received essential funding from several dedicated partners. Deep gratitude is extended to the Ontario Arts Council Multi and Inter-Arts Projects grant, the creative leadership of The Arts Incubator Winnipeg Hub, the dignity-focused work of Global Dignity Canada (Ottawa), and the academic insight from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design Creative Entrepreneurship Program. We also celebrate the collaborative effort of the Local Services Board of Melgund, alongside the many talented artists, creators, and community members who ensured this project supporting Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario storytelling thrived.
Key Subject Areas: Young Adult Fiction, AI and Technology in Literature, Digital Relationships, Mental Health and Authenticity, Canadian Literature, Support for Indigenous Writers, Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario Arts.
