12-year-old Jackson has never smiled, not even on school picture day. Born with a rare form of facial paralysis that causes his mouth to droop, Jackson longs for his classmates to see that beyond his blank face there's a kid who's smart, funny, and maybe even brave. Jackson is taunted for looking different, and relies on his best friend Ethan to protect him from bullies. But when Ethan unexpectedly moves away, Jackson is left to fend for himself.

Just as the bullying becomes unbearable, Jackson's estranged father, a professional comedian, reenters his life. Then the COVID-19 pandemic strikes, closing the school. Jackson transfers to a new school, where masks are required. Emboldened by his father's encouragement and the fact that no one can see his face, Jackson hones his joke-telling talents. Finally, he can make others laugh with him not at him. Yet even as he revels in his newfound popularity as the class comedian, Jackson knows he can't hide his face forever. And when the mask comes off, Jackson fears he'll be bullied all over again.

Written in playful free verse and interspersed with jokes and puzzles, DEADPAN presents a unique perspective on something most everyone takes for granted- the ability to smile.