Dan Unmasked

This heartfelt middle grade debut about grief, creativity, and the healing power of friendship shows that not all heroes wear capes and is perfect for fans of John David Anderson and Ali Benjamin.

Whether they’re on the baseball field or in Nate’s basement devouring the newest issue of their favorite comic book, Dan and Nate are always talking. Until they’re not.

After an accident at baseball practice, Nate’s fallen into a coma. And if Dan ever wants to talk to Nate again, he’s got to take a page out of his hero Captain Nexus’s book, and do whatever it takes to save the day.

But heroes have powers—and without Nate, all Dan has is a closet stuffed with comics and a best-friend-shaped hole in his heart. There’s no way a regular kid can save the day all on his own. Right?

• An Unforgettable Friendship: Dan and Nate are best friends who share everything—from baseball stats to the latest issue of their favorite comic. This emotional story explores what happens when that bond is put to the ultimate test.
• A Heartfelt Story of Healing: Faced with a tragedy he thinks is his fault, Dan has to find a way to navigate his grief and guilt. A touching journey perfect for young readers dealing with big emotions.
• For Baseball and Comic Book Fans: Dan turns to the world of his favorite superhero, Captain Nexus, for answers, blending the action of the baseball field with the epic stakes of a comic book adventure.
• The Power of Unlikely Allies: He can’t do it alone. Dan finds help from unexpected places, forging new friendships with Nate’s younger brother, Ollie, and the creative but quirky Courtney.

“Dan Unmasked is a grand slam of a debut: timeless, moving, and filled to the brim with heart. I can’t stop thinking about it.” - Becky Albertalli, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

"Dan Unmasked is about sports and comics but also about the complicated nature of guilt and grief and the healing power of community. A beautiful new addition to the middle grade canon." - Aisha Saeed, New York Times bestselling author of Amal Unbound

"Stirringly hits every despairing low and thrilling high of a sports movie." - Kirkus Reviews