The Misfits by Jame Howe: Chapters 1-13

Middle school lingers in the majority of people's minds as a time of awkwardness, uncertainty, and exploration. All of us just wanted to get past those middle school years. For many early adolescents, the goal is simply to fit in and be accepted. When you do not fit the stereotypical norm, however, you become labeled. Name-calling, slurs, and practical jokes bombard the misfits. In The Misfits, James Howe explores themes revolving around both diversity and tolerance. He also investigates what can be done in order to have misfits develop a united voice and be proud of themselves as individuals and develop positive identities. All can be accepted. This book also serves as a caution to the "popular kids" because The Misfits provides the perspective of the minority group, the students who suffer humiliation and ridicule during school. Putting labels on students as "the smart one" or "the fat one" can take its toll on an adolescent's psyche.

From the perspective of Bobby, an an overweight adolescent, he tells the story of himself, Addie, an outspoken, intelligent, tall girl, Skeezie, a leather-wearing boy labeled a hooligan who dresses like he's stuck in the 1950s, and Joe, a flamboyant and personality-filled boy who is certain he is gay. With Bobby's witty sense of humor and this story of developing identity, Bobby proves to be a worthwhile narrator. All of this accumulates into a story that is quickly turning into a memorable one for me. Despite the controversy surrounding The Misfits, I believe this book's subject material ignites awareness in order that students and adults alike can develop a more comprehensive understanding of difference and its effect.

Bobby tells the story with such openness and directness that it's nearly impossible not to get wrapped into the story. His active imagination, his developing feelings about love, and his pursuit for understanding and knowledge all make the story unique and enjoyable to read. Slowly he is discovering his own identity. According to Bobby, "This business of really knowing pepole, deep down, including yourself, it is not something you can learn in school or from a book. It takes your whole being to do it-your eyes and your ears, your brain and your heart. Maybe your heart most of all" (p. 124). Such insight shows Bobby's higher-order thinking skills taking place. By entering the formal operations stage of reasoning, Bobby and his friends can question issues and conflicts in the world. Is it fair? Is there justice? Can we enact change?

By being part of the election and having a third-party, Bobby, Addie, Skeezie, and Joe all have a chance to have their voice heard. Too often as human beings we become complacent, thinking things can never change. With Addie's strong will though, she is determined to enact chance in the school and in the larger community. Having been labeled all of their lives, the Gang of Five is ready to challenge the norm and no longer accept the status quo. I'm excited to read about the progression of the election and also of Bobby's developing awareness of identity in himself and others.