Worst-Case Collin

Written by Rebecca Caprara

A boy's survival plans can't shield him from life's real challenges.

4.4 Goodreads · 1,023 ratings

384 pages· 30,559 words· Est. 4.5 hour read· 680L

$18.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Twelve-year-old Collin copes with anxiety by crafting survival plans for every disaster. After losing his mom, his father's hoarding worsens, and Collin hides his chaotic home life. As he navigates middle school with friends Liam and Georgia, Collin must confront his fears and learn vulnerability. Can he open up to those he cares about when control seems impossible?

From the publisher

This poignant middle grade novel in verse follows twelve-year-old Collin who manages his anxiety by mapping out survival plans for any disaster or worst-case scenario. Collin is always prepared for something to go wrong. Ever since he lost his mom in a car accident, he’s been journaling about how to overcome things like avalanches, riptides, or even a bad case of halitosis. Meanwhile, Collin’s father grows more distant by the day, and has started hoarding things throughout their house. Determined to hide his home life from his friends, Collin navigates middle school alongside the hilarious and clueless Liam, and Georgia, who Collin may have feelings for. Can Collin learn to be vulnerable around those he loves, even when he can’t control every possible scenario?

At a glance