Samantha Hansen Has Rocks in Her Head
by Nancy Viau
Published by Amulet Books
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Reviewed by Jamie Driggers
Samantha Hansen LOVES science, especially rocks. She knows tons about them: the different kinds, which ones are fluorescent, and where to find which kinds. What Samantha doesn’t understand is why others won’t bow to her scientific prowess, how to control her temper long enough to make it to the Grand Canyon (the coolest rock of all time), and how to get even with That Kid Richard.
Samantha Hansen Has Rocks in Her Head is a really cute Middle Reader that encourages kids to love science and strive for self-improvement (even if it is only for ulterior motives). Samantha is spunky and self-confident and I love that in a little girl.
Though this is a basically clean little read, I hesitate to hand it over to my seven-year-old daughter. Tell me I’m in denial, but I don’t want her thinking about maybe liking that boy because he’s nice to her and kinda cute, just yet. And Samantha does carry an attitude of general disrespect for the adults in her life (is there no adult she doesn’t think is helpless without her?). I know much of it is general kid stuff, but I still live in the fantasy world that children have some semblance of respect for their elders. I will hand it to the author, though, that Samantha makes great strides towards improving her attitude and relationships.
Overall, this is really a page turner, teaches good things—about science, controlling your temper and getting along with others—and will appeal to many kids. But a mom might want to read through it and first give her child the don’t-you-dare-act-like-that talk.
Armchair Interviews says: Heed this reviewer’s comment on respect.
Author’s Web site: http://www.NancyViau.com