What happens when you find out your parents have been keeping a really big secret from you? Payton, in Sean Griswold’s Head by Lindsey Leavitt, is shocked to find out her dad has M.S. and has known for about six months. Turns out everyone in her family knew, but her. She stops talking with her parents and they reach out to Payton’s school counselor. Payton is told to find something to focus on and study to take her mind off of the issues at home. And Payton decides to focus on Sean Griswold’s head. After all, she’s been staring at it for most of her school career since they both have last names that start with the letter G.
Once Payton decides on Sean’s head however, she realizes she knows next to nothing about the boy. What ensues is a funny read with some serious undertones. Payton’s home life isn’t without complications as she tries to come to grips with how her father’s illness will impact all of their lives and what it means for her future, with or without Sean’s head in it!
Recommended for grades 6 and up.
Books in the Middle: Reading for Middle School 