Award Winning Illustrated Middle Grade Book The Mask Helps Start the Conversation About Bullying and Body Image 

Written by Clayton Marshall Adams

Illustrations by Rohan Daniel Eason

Book Awards:

Eric Hoffer Award Middle Reader Award 2022 Winner

Eric Hoffer Award Free Horizon 2022 Winner

Feathered Quill Book Awards Reader’s Choice Winner 2022

Kirkus Reviews Best Indie Children’s Book of 2021

Publisher’s Weekly Booklife Prize 2021

Foreword Indies Book of the Year Finalist 2022

Eric Hoffer Award Short List 2022

The Mask, written by Clayton Marshall Adams and illustrated by Rohan Daniel Eason, tells the story of a disfigured man who is bullied by the local villagers until the forest offers him beauty in exchange for a future unknown service, whenever it is demanded by The Mask. The Mask is an allegorical tale that touches upon our human frailties, inspires us to find our inner truth, and dares us to be more courageous than we can imagine.

Beautifully illustrated and designed, the award-winning book The Mask compels a reader to ponder important social issues such as bullying and body image. It’s a powerful, story that challenges the reader to think about the beauty and resiliency of the human spirit; about courage and love; about the innate human desire to belong and be accepted.

 "A fitting tribute to the teenager who could see so clearly and feel so deeply, The Mask is an allegory that teachers and parents will welcome as a starting point for discussions about many of the most valuable and elusive of human traits—love, courage, integrity, and kindness. Beautifully illustrated by Rohan Daniel Eason." — BookLife Prize from Publishers Weekly

Spike Adams published his late son Clayton’s book, The Mask. Sadly, Clayton Marshall Adams took his life after years of suffering from depression.  While searching his computer after his death, his parents discovered a manuscript for The Mask, Clayton's fable about self-esteem and bullying, and decided to publish it as a way to establish a legacy for their son. 

In addition, on the publisher's website, his family created 20 questions that teachers and parents can use for discussion. 

Recommended Reading Ages: 8-16 years old

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 

Clayton Marshall Adams was a young man who suffered from clinical depression and subsequently took his life. While looking through his computer for photos and writings his mother found this story. His father, Spike, decided to publish it to give his son the best legacy he could. Clayton's story, The Mask was published by CJ Sparrow on October 28, 2021.

 For more information, visit: https://www.cjsparrowpublication.com/