Mark Waid writes one hell of a Kid Nova. That was the most compelling I've seen the character and while I know Mark is a really busy guy, I think you should try to find a way for him to work with Sam (who is absolutely one of your best outreach characters to the younger crowd) more. (Of course, that's, as you always say, only if Mark WANTS to work with him more.)
Glad you enjoyed it!
And now that I’ve printed this, set your stopwatches for the appearance of the Anti-NINO crowd with their review. (I’m guessing that they didn’t like it, and will say that in great detail!)