Billy Bloom is no typical teenager. To start off, he's gay and as if it wasn't enough, he's moving to a brand new school in Florida to live with his father. He seems to feel surprised at the fact that the students of his new school, Eisenhower Academy don't necessarily acecpt him. Confused about his own feelings, he tries to fit in at his new school, but at the same time, he is eager to stand out.
And to be clear, the topic might make a few uncomfortable but it it most definitely a reality that the world should not shy away from.
Billy Bloom is a bit loud, obnoxious, and seems to be oblivious to the discomfort he brings on other people. Unfortunately, Billy is a victim of a violent attack at the hands of his classmates that reveal the true nature of his character. The assault is severe and unfortunately puts him in a coma. Deep thoughts and emotions are revealed through his coma and it is just impossible for the reader to not be drawn to this kid. Despite the reactions he gets from people because of his character, Billy is likeable and his character grows on you.
This is a very relatable topic, whether it's because we know someone like that or because we can't pretend this isn't an issue in our society. I thought of Billy and I thought of a former student of mine, let's call him "Franky." Maybe a bit eccentric but with a beautiful, easygoing, yet difficult personality. What makes people react negatively with these kids? Plain ignorance. And this serves as an eye opener and perhaps it will help cure the narrowminded society we live in.
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