Book Review of Deadpan
The Children’s Book Review
Deadpan
Written by Harold Eppley
Illustrated by Dana Breunig (Cover) & Kelly Maddern (Interior)
Ages: 9+ | 292 Pages
Publisher: OrangeHat (2025) | ISBN: 9781645385851
What to Expect: Moebius Syndrome, Facial Differences, Middle School Bullying, Deadpan Comedy, Finding Your Voice, Estranged Father/Family Relationships, Free Verse Novel.
A 12-year-old boy with a rare form of facial paralysis uses his deadpan humor to overcome bullying and find his true self when his best friend moves away and his comedian father returns during a global pandemic.
Jackson was born with Moebius Syndrome, a rare form of facial paralysis that causes his mouth to droop and prevents him from moving his eyes side to side. He is often misunderstood and taunted as “Saggy-lips Jackson” by classmates. With his best friend, Ethan, as his shield, Jackson manages the bullying, but when Ethan moves away, he must face his tormentors alone.
His life changes with the unexpected return of his estranged father, a comedian who offers “Dadvice” and encourages Jackson’s knack for deadpan comedy. When the COVID-19 pandemic forces him to a new school with mandatory mask rules, Jackson finds that this anonymity and confidence allow him to explore his humor and make new connections. However, he’ll eventually have to confront the fear of eventually revealing his face…
Deadpan is a realistic and touching story uniquely presented in playful free verse, giving intimate access to Jackson’s personal struggle with self-acceptance, bullying, and complex family dynamics. This inventive format is interspersed with jokes and puzzles, such as the “SOLVE THIS!” Wheel of Fortune-style challenges from Mr. Scott. The backmatter includes a detailed, informative section on Moebius Syndrome.
Readers who enjoy compelling, character-driven stories in verse that explore themes of bullying, finding one’s voice, and complex family relationships will find Deadpan both poignant and enriching.
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About the Author
Harold Eppley has been writing stories for as long as he can remember. In third grade, he sold hand-printed copies of his “books” to his classmates for a quarter each until his mother made him stop. A graduate of Saint Olaf College and Wartburg Theological Seminary, Harold has worked as an ESL (English as a Second Language) educator for immigrant children and is currently a chaplain at Eastcastle Place, a senior living community in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Harold is the author of 8 books for adults, including seven written with his wife, Rochelle Melander. Deadpan is his debut children’s book.
