Sam is a ten-year-old mad scientist, but she doesn't blow up stuff or change kids into cats that bark. She just has a little trouble keeping a lid on her temper, and she “ab-so-lutely” loves science (especially rocks). But science isn’t all that helpful when it comes to the big questions like why does she get into trouble, why is her sister so annoying, and why won’t anyone talk about her dad. When Sam’s mom announces a trip to the Grand Canyon, it’s a dream-come-true. But if Sam can’t get a grip on her emotions, she’s going to miss seeing her favorite rocks, and miss finding out the answers to some of her questions.

Samantha Hansen Has Rocks In Her Head is a hilarious and touching debut perfect for elementary school kids.

"Sam is an engaging and realistically drawn protagonist. Sam’s love of science is refreshing, and Viau does a nice job of incorporating information about the Grand Canyon and the study of geology into the story line. Readers will easily relate to Sam as she tries to make sense of the world around her."
~School Library Journal

“Samantha's fractions, her temper, her love of rocks, and her mother's cakes all add up to create a sweet and funny read.”
~Ingrid Law, author of Savvy, a 2009 Newbery Honor Book

"Sam shares many qualities with Junie B.—the obligatory spunk, a chattily ingenuous voice—but her passion for science distinguishes her from other franchise heroines."
~Kirkus Reviews

"Nancy Viau mixes humor, spunk, and charm into the story of a young scientist who asks big questions about her world and unearths some surprising and satisfying answers. Samantha Hansen Has Rocks In Her Head is a gem young readers will 'ab-so-lutely' enjoy."
~Julie Bowe, author of My Last Best Friend and My New Best Friend

“(Sam is) lovable and full of the kind of spirit that makes for a lasting character."
~Young Adult (and Kids Books) Central

"The perfect book for the tween science geek!"
~David Macinnis Gill, author of Soul Enchilada.

"Samantha Hansen Has Rocks In Her Head is a delightful story. This is a terrific read for any 8-12 year old. Five-stars."
~Teens Read Too

For a personalized bookplate, EMAIL me.

For a very cool book trailer, click on YouTube or TeacherTube.

For a reading guide, click HERE.

Order my book using one of the handy links below: