This important and worthwhile book inspired the national event,
No Name-Calling Week, which most recently took place January
24-28, 2011. Created by GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian and Straight
Education Network) and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing,
and along with over forty national partner organizations, this
project aims to focus national attention on the problem of name-
calling in schools, and spreads a message of respect and anti-
bullying. For more information visit nonamecallingweek.org. The
main characters in this book have all been the subject of taunts
based on either weight, height, intelligence, or sexual
orientation. Homosexuality is openly discussed and is accepted
within the core group of friends. Homophobic slurs and cruel
names in general are used often to illustrate a point and convey
the main message of the story. Grief is central to the story, as
main character Bobby's mother has passed away from cancer and he
and his father are still trying to heal and move on from her
death. The awkwardness