When Adam meets Robyn...

at a support group for kids coping with obsessive-compulsive disorder, he is drawn to her almost before he can take a breath. But when you're fourteen and the everyday problems of dealing with divorced parents and step-siblings are supplemented by the challenges of OCD, it's hard to imagine yourself falling in love...

• Governor General's Award, Children's Literature 2013
• Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children's Book Award 2014
• Canadian Librarian's Association Honour Book Award 2014

“Toten spins an equally compelling - and occasionally humorous - story about the difficulties all adolescents face in getting to know themselves and how they fit in society, not to mention how to find kindred spirits and learn to trust.” - Montreal Gazette

“Toten masterfully portrays the turbulent emotions and deep-seated fears of someone suffering from mental illness... ...a beautiful, heart-wrenching story of life, loss, love, brokenness, and the purest form of bravery: giving in and asking for help.” - Quill & Quire

“Arguably one of the most likable teen characters since Ferris Bueller so famously took a day off... The Unlikely Hero is a tender, yet hilarious love story that will have you rooting for Adam as he grapples with OCD while also trying to save the world and win the hand of Robyn Plummer.” - National Reading Campaign

“...a transformative, high energy novel that vibrates with the creativity of both the writer and main character... A powerful story with brilliant language and unexpected moments of humour.”
- Governor General Literary Awards Jury

“Excellent novels like this are surefire ways to change the attitude of the young towards mental illness. This deft, thoughtful and hilariously funny novel will remain in the mind for a long, long time.” - CM Magazine