Head-On: Stories of Alopecia
An inspiring collection of personal narratives from over 75 people living with various types of alopecia, paired with black-and-white portraits and practical information about the condition.
About This Book
Head-On: Stories of Alopecia grew out of author Deeann Callis Graham's own experience with alopecia areata. After losing her hair twice, she channeled her journey into a community project, gathering first-person stories from over 75 people of different ages, genders, and backgrounds who have lived with alopecia in its many forms.
The book combines striking black-and-white portraits with personal narratives, allowing readers to see themselves reflected in stories of others who have navigated hair loss, identity shifts, and public reaction. Alongside these narratives, Graham provides a thorough overview of the different types of alopecia, what triggers flares, and what treatment options are available.
What makes this book especially valuable for patients is its emotional honesty. Stories cover the full spectrum from devastation and social withdrawal to acceptance and advocacy. Readers at any stage of their alopecia journey are likely to find voices that resonate with their own experience.
Head-On won First Place in the CIBA 2017 Instruction and Insight Awards for Non-Fiction and has been recognized by patient communities and dermatology organizations alike.
Our Review
This book works differently from a traditional patient guide. Rather than leading with clinical information, it leads with human connection. For many people with alopecia areata, simply knowing others share the same fears, frustrations, and moments of unexpected strength can be profoundly healing. The personal stories in Head-On offer exactly that.
The practical sections on treatment and types of alopecia are a helpful bonus, but the real value is the sense of community this book creates. It is particularly recommended for anyone feeling isolated after diagnosis or for caregivers trying to understand the emotional weight of the condition.