15 Days Without a Head- Dave Cousins

15 Days Without a Head
Dave Cousins
May 8, 2013

This was a powerful book about the resilience of the human spirit. Laurence is only 15 and he is dealing with adult problems. His mother, an alcoholic, disappears and he is left to take care of his younger brother. The chapters are titled for days of the week with a twist, giving the reader a sense of how much time has passed and what is happening each day. Cousins writes the story from Laurence's perspective. He is trying to juggle school, friends, and taking care of his brother who is in first grade all at the same time. He is trying to keep his mother's disappearance a secret because Child Protective Services would be involved. Will the boys find their mother? Will they survive with little food and can they make it through together?

Cousins writes with such an easy flow that the reader cannot help but fly through this book. The characters are lovable and irritating all at the same time. This book is something adults and teens alike can enjoy. The adolescent readers could see themselves or someone they know in Laurence. He is a likable guy who keeps to himself and always seems to be somewhere else. More kids than we would like to think experience situations where they are in charge because their parents are not functioning. The sad reality of this book is clear. Laurence wants nothing more than his mother's love and happiness.