Samantha Hansen Has Rocks in Her Head is a book written by Nancy Viau. Nancy taught a writer’s workshop for kids for several weeks at my local library. My daughter attended the workshop, and I was extremely impressed with how much she learned. In fact, this past month my daughter completed her first book. Nancy was fun, captured the attention of the children, and really developed the kids’ love of writing.

Anyway, back to the book. Samantha Hansen is a 10-year old girl that is in love with science. She particularly loves to study rocks, and has a collection of her very own. Imagine Samantha’s delight when her mother tells the family that they will be taking a vacation to the Grand Canyon. There is just one small problem. Samantha has a problem with anger, and often fights with her older sister. If Sam can’t control her temper, the trip will be cancelled, and she won’t get to study any new rocks.

Throughout the book, you will see several instances where Sam is provoked by other individuals, including by a bully at school. She eventually learns a few techniques to use, such as counting to ten, in order to prevent herself from having an outburst. It is after this growth that Samantha’s mother decides to go ahead with the trip.

What I love about this book is that the character is real, and has genuine flaws that she must work on. Girls around the same age as Samantha Hansen will easily be able to relate to her. Parents will also appreciate the real science facts that are introduced throughout the book. I highly recommend this book for children who are between the ages of eight and twelve.