McClane Junior High

Most of the novel’s pivotal action occurs at McClane Junior High where Shane is a grade six student. Initially, the school represents a safe environment because everyone there believes Shane is male. Shane interacts with Madeline, his crush, and Nico, his nemesis, almost exclusively at school. After Nico initiates a rumor that Shane is transgender and proceeds to send the entire student population of McClane Junior High a photo of Shane as a girl, school transforms from a nurturing to a hostile space. Most notably, Shane endures frequent bullying from his peers during class that largely goes unnoticed by his instructors. Most students ostracize Shane once they discover about his birth gender, indicating that teachers must better educate their learners about the LGBTQ+ community and foster a more accepting school atmosphere.

Shane’s House in Los Angeles

Shane reveals a great deal of personal information...