Relationships

One of the primary themes running through the novel is relationships. Friendship is one type of relationship that the novel tackles. First, Russel hides the fact that he is gay, even from his two best friends, Min and Gunnar. When Russel admits that he is gay to Min, ironically, she admits to him that she is bisexual. Even though Gunnar is different from the other kids at school too, Russel and Min choose to continue to hide their sexualities from Gunnar.

Romantic relationships are also tackled in the novel. Russel and Kevin start out as friends that are bound by their secret of being gay. As they continue to spend time with each other, however, they end up becoming involved with each romantically. In the end, their love doesn't last because Kevin chooses his popularity over exposing the fact that he is gay. Russel, on the other hand...