The Misfits by James Howe (Overall Book Perspective)

Awareness of a problem is the first step toward change. I found Bobby's idea of establishing the No-Name party a stroke of genius on his part. I believe every kid has been called a name at least one time in their life. Maybe it was positive name, maybe it was negative, but I know I remember some of the names I was called. Teacher's pet, smartypants, the giant, etc. were some just to name a few. Even though name-calling might not be vocalized verbally now that we're older and in college, prejudgments are often still made based on people's fashion, looks, etc. The list that the Gang of Five made showed some overlap in names such as loser and dork. Bobby, Joe, Skeezie, and Addie took it upon themselves to enact change.

I feel that adolescents have a sense of idealism that many people lose as they get older. In these adolescent years, the Gang of Five shows promise, hope, and a willingness to make a difference for the future. For Bobby especially, his inventiveness and maturation come through not only in his vision of the No-Name party but also in his talks with his dad and Mr. Kellerman as well as his final speech made in front of the whole school. It takes guts to do something like Bobby does in the closing pages of this book. Their party's motto, "Sticks and stones may break our bones, but names will break our spirit" rings throughout Bobby's speech.

Despite Bobby's moving speech, it is Brittany that wins the election. It is as though James Howe is suggesting that change cannot happen immediately. Instead, incremental change not substantial change often occurs. Although the Gang of Five does not win the election, their principal, Mr. Kiley enacts No-Name Day and later No-Name Week. However, James Howe does have a slightly idealistic ending for Joe. Both Joe and Colin come out and decide to go out. In reality, I highly doubt this would happen openly during middle school. Perhaps James Howe, a gay man himself, was envisioning his own life when creating a happy ending for Joe.

The Misfits is a great book that allows kids to learn about bullying, tolerance, and activism. I believe this book would be beneficial in my classroom as a teaching tool. Classroom discussions would be necessary when discussing all of the themes and topics that arise in this book.