Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Heartwarming, Thought-provoking, Humorous, Hopeful
- Read it if
- You enjoy character-driven stories about mental health, unique friendships, and the complexities of human connection, especially those with a touch of humor and heart.
- Skip it if
- You prefer fast-paced thrillers or stories without significant emotional conflict and character introspection.
Highly Illogical Behavior Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
A College Plan and an Unexpected Target
Lisa Pray, a driven high school student, wants to get into a good college psychology program. Her guidance counselor suggests she needs a unique extracurricular. Lisa hears a rumor about Solomon, a boy who hasn't left his house in three years because of severe agoraphobia and anxiety, after a panic attack in a crowded mall food court. Seeing a chance, Lisa plans to befriend Solomon and help him, documenting his progress for her college application. She researches agoraphobia and, with her boyfriend Clark's help, prepares to talk to Solomon's parents.
Initial Encounters and a Tentative Agreement
Lisa, with Clark, visits Solomon's house. Solomon's parents, especially his mother, are at first cautious but also want help for their son. Lisa presents her plan, mentioning her interest in psychology and her wish to help Solomon, while hinting at her college goals. Solomon, hearing the talk from his room, is at first against the intrusion. His parents agree to let Lisa try, hoping her presence might encourage him. Lisa begins her visits, slowly trying to build a relationship with Solomon, who at first talks mainly through his bedroom door, showing his deep anxiety about the outside world.
Building Trust and Introducing Clark
Over several weeks, Lisa patiently visits Solomon, talking to him about his interests, which include Star Trek and various niche hobbies. Solomon, though still hesitant, gradually starts to trust Lisa, finding comfort in her consistent presence and non-judgmental attitude. He even lets her into his room, a big step. Lisa, wanting to expand Solomon's social circle, decides to introduce Clark. Clark, with his easygoing personality, quickly gets along with Solomon, bonding over shared interests like video games and sci-fi. Their friendship develops quickly, forming an unexpected trio.
Growing Bonds and Hidden Agendas
The trio spends more time together, playing games, watching movies, and discussing life. Solomon's comfort increases, and he starts to express himself more. He develops a crush on Lisa, misunderstanding her kindness as romantic interest, which makes things awkward for Lisa, who is still with Clark. Meanwhile, Lisa continues to secretly write about Solomon's progress, feeling more guilty about using him for her college application, especially as their friendship deepens. She struggles with the ethical problem of her initial intentions versus the real connection she has formed with Solomon and Clark.
A Breakthrough and a Betrayal
Encouraged by Lisa and Clark, Solomon makes a breakthrough. He manages to step outside his house, first onto the porch, then into the yard, experiencing the world beyond his safe place for the first time in years. This moment is a triumph for everyone, especially for Lisa, who sees her 'project' happening. However, the celebration is short. Solomon accidentally finds Lisa's detailed journal entries, showing her initial reason to use him for her college application. Feeling betrayed, Solomon retreats back into himself, his fragile trust broken, and he refuses to see Lisa or Clark, devastated by the discovery.
The Aftermath and Lisa's Guilt
After the discovery, Solomon completely withdraws, refusing to leave his room or talk to anyone, including his parents, beyond basic needs. He feels foolish and used, believing his progress was just a means to an end for Lisa. Lisa feels guilt and regret. Her college application, which now feels tainted, loses its appeal. She genuinely cares for Solomon and realizes how much harm she has caused. Clark, caught in the middle, tries to help both of them, but Solomon's anger and disappointment are too deep to easily overcome. Lisa thinks about her ambition and the ethical compromises she made.
Clark's Loyalty and a New Perspective
Despite the fallout, Clark stays loyal to both Solomon and Lisa. He understands Lisa's initial intentions but also sees the real friendship that developed. He continues to visit Solomon, talking to him through the door, not pushing him to forgive Lisa but simply offering a consistent, non-judgmental presence. Clark's steady friendship gives Solomon a small bit of hope. Clark also talks to Lisa, helping her process her guilt and encouraging her to apologize sincerely, not just for her actions but for the pain she caused. He reminds her that real connection is more important than any college essay.
A Sincere Apology and a Glimmer of Hope
After some time, and with Clark's subtle encouragement, Lisa writes a heartfelt letter to Solomon, explaining her initial reasons, expressing deep regret for her deception, and acknowledging the real friendship they had formed. She doesn't ask for forgiveness but hopes for understanding. Solomon, still hurt but touched by Clark's continued visits and Lisa's persistent, non-intrusive apology, eventually agrees to see her again. Their conversation is hard, full of raw emotion, but it's a step toward reconciliation. Solomon expresses his pain, and Lisa genuinely listens, accepting the consequences of her actions without defensiveness.
Rebuilding and Moving Forward
The reconciliation is not immediate or easy, but it starts the process of healing. Solomon, with renewed support from his parents and the continued, patient friendship of Clark, and eventually Lisa, starts to tentatively re-engage with the world. He doesn't completely 'cure' his agoraphobia overnight, but he finds the courage to take small steps again, driven by a desire for real connection rather than outside pressure. Lisa, having learned a lesson about ethics and true empathy, revises her college application, focusing on a more honest and compassionate reflection of her experiences, now truly understanding human psychology beyond just a case study.
Principal Figures
Solomon
Protagonist
A bright, witty, but severely agoraphobic teenager who hasn't left his house in three years.
Solomon is a sixteen-year-old boy suffering from severe agoraphobia and anxiety, stemming from a traumatic panic attack at a mall food court. He is highly intelligent, with a deep love for Star Trek, video games, and obscure facts. Despite his reclusive nature, he possesses a sharp wit and a longing for connection. His internal world is rich and complex, but his fear of the outside world is paralyzing. He is initially very wary of Lisa's intrusion but slowly opens up to her and Clark, only to be deeply hurt by Lisa's deception.
Relationships: Lisa Pray (initial helper/project, then friend, then object of affection, then betrayer, then reconciler); Clark (best friend, confidante, unwavering support); Solomon's Parents (loving but overwhelmed and desperate for his recovery)
Lisa Pray
Protagonist
An ambitious high school student who initially befriends Solomon for a college application project.
Lisa is driven, intelligent, and fiercely ambitious, with her sights set on a top psychology program. She initially sees Solomon as a means to an end, a unique 'case study' to bolster her college application. However, as she spends more time with Solomon, her initial professional detachment gives way to genuine empathy and friendship. She struggles with the ethical implications of her actions and feels immense guilt when her true intentions are revealed, leading to a profound personal reckoning and growth.
Relationships: Solomon (initial project, then friend, then object of his affection, then betrayer, then reconciler); Clark (boyfriend, confidant, moral compass); Guidance Counselor (advisor who inadvertently triggers her project idea)
Clark
Supporting
Lisa's charming, laid-back boyfriend who forms a deep bond with Solomon.
Clark is easygoing, kind-hearted, and charismatic. He supports Lisa's ambitions but also possesses a strong moral compass. He quickly develops a genuine friendship with Solomon, bonding over shared interests and providing a much-needed male presence and sense of normalcy. He acts as a crucial bridge between Lisa and Solomon during their fallout, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and empathy. Clark's consistent, non-judgmental nature is vital to Solomon's healing process and Lisa's self-reflection.
Relationships: Lisa Pray (girlfriend, supportive partner); Solomon (best friend, confidante)
Solomon's Mother (Mrs. Kugel)
Supporting
Solomon's loving but overwhelmed mother, desperate for her son's recovery.
Solomon's mother is deeply concerned for her son's well-being, having witnessed his descent into agoraphobia. She is initially cautious but ultimately hopeful about Lisa's proposal, willing to try anything to help Solomon. She is a supportive but also somewhat enabling parent, struggling to find the right balance between protecting Solomon and encouraging him to face his fears. Her love for Solomon is evident in her patience and her quiet desperation for his return to a normal life.
Relationships: Solomon (son); Solomon's Father (husband); Lisa Pray (initial hope for Solomon's recovery)
Solomon's Father (Mr. Kugel)
Supporting
Solomon's quiet, understanding father, who supports his son in his own way.
Solomon's father is a quieter presence than his mother but equally loving and concerned. He often communicates his support through small gestures and a calm demeanor. He trusts his wife's judgment regarding Lisa and provides a stable, comforting presence in the household. He represents the silent strength and enduring love within the family, offering a grounded perspective amidst the emotional turmoil.
Relationships: Solomon (son); Solomon's Mother (wife)
Guidance Counselor (Ms. Miller)
Mentioned
Lisa's high school guidance counselor who advises her on college applications.
Ms. Miller is the practical and results-oriented guidance counselor who prompts Lisa to find a unique extracurricular activity to make her college application stand out. Her advice, though well-intentioned, inadvertently leads Lisa to her ethically questionable 'project' with Solomon. She represents the external pressure and competitive nature of college admissions that initially drives Lisa's actions.
Relationships: Lisa Pray (student/counselor)
Themes & Insights
Identity and Self-Discovery
The novel explores how Solomon, Lisa, and Clark each deal with who they are and who they want to be. Solomon's identity is defined by his agoraphobia, but through his interactions, he starts to redefine himself beyond his condition. Lisa initially bases her identity on ambition and academic success, only to discover a more authentic self through empathy and ethical reflection. Clark, too, strengthens his identity as a loyal and compassionate friend. The characters learn that true identity is not just about external achievements or perceived flaws, but about real connection and self-acceptance.
“Maybe the world was a little less scary than he’d imagined, and maybe he was a little braver than he’d thought.”
Ethics of Ambition
A main theme is the moral tightrope Lisa walks as she pursues her college dreams. Her initial plan to 'fix' Solomon for a psychology project raises questions about manipulation, consent, and using human suffering for personal gain. The book shows the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of ethical considerations in personal and academic pursuits. Lisa's journey forces her to face the consequences of her actions and to prioritize real human connection over career advancement, leading to a more mature understanding of empathy.
“She had wanted to help Solomon, yes, but she had wanted to help herself more.”
The Nature of Friendship and Trust
The evolving relationships between Solomon, Lisa, and Clark make up the emotional core of the story. The book looks at how friendships are built on trust, vulnerability, and mutual respect, and how easily that trust can be broken. Solomon's initial isolation shows his longing for connection, while Clark's steady loyalty shows the power of true friendship. Lisa's betrayal and subsequent remorse show the importance of honesty and the long, hard path to rebuilding trust, showing that real connection is essential for healing and growth.
“Trust was a fragile thing, easily broken, and nearly impossible to put back together perfectly.”
Mental Health and Agoraphobia
The novel provides a sensitive portrayal of agoraphobia and generalized anxiety disorder through Solomon's character. It shows the debilitating fear, isolation, and social stigma linked with such conditions, showing that mental illness is not a choice or a simple flaw but a complex challenge. The book shows the importance of empathy, patience, and professional help (though Lisa is not a professional) in supporting individuals with mental health issues, and how small steps can be big achievements. It also subtly critiques the societal pressure to 'fix' rather than simply understand and support.
“It wasn’t just about fear of the outside. It was about fear of everything the outside represented.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
First-Person Dual Perspective
Alternating chapters told from Lisa's and Solomon's points of view.
The narrative alternates between Lisa's and Solomon's first-person perspectives. This device allows the reader to deeply understand both characters' internal struggles, motivations, and biases. Lisa's chapters reveal her ambitious drive and moral conflicts, while Solomon's chapters provide insight into his agoraphobia, anxieties, and unique worldview. This dual perspective creates dramatic irony, especially when their interpretations of events or feelings differ, and amplifies the impact of Lisa's eventual betrayal and the subsequent healing process.
The Journal/Case Study
Lisa's secret documentation of Solomon's progress for her college application.
Lisa's meticulously kept journal, intended as a psychology case study for her college application, serves as a crucial plot device. It initially highlights her utilitarian and somewhat detached approach to Solomon, contrasting with the genuine friendship that develops. Its discovery by Solomon is the pivotal moment of betrayal, shattering his trust and driving the story's conflict. The journal symbolizes Lisa's initial ambition and ethical dilemma, and its role in the plot forces both characters to confront difficult truths about manipulation and trust.
Solomon's House
A physical manifestation of Solomon's agoraphobia and his safe haven.
Solomon's house is more than just a setting; it's a character in itself, embodying his agoraphobia. It is his fortress, his safe haven, but also his prison. The gradual opening of its doors and the cautious steps Solomon takes outside symbolize his internal progress and struggle against his fears. The house represents both the comfort of isolation and the barrier to a full life. Its significance is heightened when Solomon retreats fully back into it after Lisa's betrayal, emphasizing the profound impact of the broken trust.
Star Trek References
A recurring motif reflecting Solomon's escapism and search for order.
Solomon's deep love for Star Trek, particularly 'The Next Generation,' is a recurring motif. The show provides him with a sense of order, logic, and an escape from his chaotic internal world. The characters and themes of Star Trek often parallel Solomon's own struggles with fear, exploration, and finding one's place in the universe. It serves as a bonding point with both Lisa and Clark, and its consistent presence underscores Solomon's intellectual curiosity and his longing for a world where problems can be logically solved.
Highly Illogical Behavior Quotes
“The world is a terrifying place, and it's okay to be afraid of it.”
“Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is ask for help.”
“You don't have to be fixed to be whole.”
“People are like planets. They have their own gravity, and you can get pulled into their orbit without even realizing it.”
“Maybe we're all just trying to find someone who makes us feel less alone in our own heads.”
“Anxiety isn't a choice. It's a prison, and the key is on the inside.”
“You can't save people. You can only love them while they save themselves.”
“Normal is just a setting on the dryer.”
“The hardest part about being broken is pretending you're not.”
“We're all a little bit broken, and that's what makes us interesting.”
“Sometimes the people who seem the strongest are the ones hiding the most pain.”
“You don't have to understand someone to love them.”
“Fear is a liar. It tells you that you can't when you can.”
“The world outside is overrated. It's what's inside that counts.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What is Solomon's primary mental health condition that causes him to stay indoors for three years?
- Social anxiety disorder
- Agoraphobia
- Depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Show answer
B. Agoraphobia Solomon has agoraphobia, which is an anxiety disorder involving fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable, leading him to avoid leaving his house for three years. This is explicitly stated in the book's description.
Question 2
Why does Lisa initially decide to befriend Solomon?
- She feels sorry for him and wants to help him out of kindness
- She wants to write a college application essay about curing his agoraphobia
- Her boyfriend Clark suggests it as a way to make new friends
- She is assigned to study him for a psychology class project
Show answer
B. She wants to write a college application essay about curing his agoraphobia Lisa's primary motivation is ambition: she plans to write an essay about "fixing" Solomon's agoraphobia to boost her chances of getting into a top psychology program, as mentioned in the book's description.
Question 3
What is the name of Lisa's boyfriend who becomes friends with Solomon?
- Clark
- Jason
- David
- Michael
Show answer
A. Clark Lisa's boyfriend is named Clark, and he joins her in befriending Solomon, forming a trio that develops a close bond, as described in the book summary.
Question 4
How does Solomon's friendship with Clark evolve in a way that complicates Lisa's plans?
- Clark becomes jealous of Solomon and tries to sabotage Lisa's essay
- Solomon and Clark grow closer, making Lisa feel excluded and questioning her motives
- Clark convinces Solomon to leave the house without telling Lisa
- Solomon develops romantic feelings for Clark, causing a rift
Show answer
B. Solomon and Clark grow closer, making Lisa feel excluded and questioning her motives As Solomon and Clark bond more deeply, Lisa starts to feel left out and realizes her initial selfish motives, which threatens their friendships and her plans, as highlighted in the book's description.
Question 5
What major theme in the book is explored through Lisa's ambition versus her growing genuine care for Solomon?
- The importance of academic success over personal relationships
- The conflict between selfish goals and authentic human connection
- The dangers of psychological experimentation on friends
- The inevitability of friendship breakdowns under pressure
Show answer
B. The conflict between selfish goals and authentic human connection The book delves into themes of ambition and authenticity, as Lisa grapples with her initial selfish desire to use Solomon for her essay versus developing real empathy and friendship, reflecting on what truly matters in relationships.
Question 6
Which of these activities do Solomon, Lisa, and Clark NOT engage in together as part of their bonding?
- Watching movies and playing board games at Solomon's house
- Going on a road trip to a beach outside town
- Having deep conversations about life and mental health
- Creating a makeshift pool in Solomon's backyard
Show answer
B. Going on a road trip to a beach outside town While they do spend time indoors watching movies, talking, and even build a pool in the backyard, a major road trip outside town is not a typical activity given Solomon's agoraphobia; such outings would be significant plot points if they occurred.
Question 7
What realization does Lisa have about her psychology ambitions as her friendship with Solomon deepens?
- She decides to switch her major to a different field entirely
- She understands that helping people requires empathy, not just academic achievement
- She realizes Solomon doesn't actually need help and gives up on her essay
- She becomes more determined to use Solomon's case to get into an Ivy League school
Show answer
B. She understands that helping people requires empathy, not just academic achievement Lisa's journey involves learning that true psychology and support come from genuine connection and understanding, rather than just using someone's struggles for personal gain, a key theme in her character development.
Question 8
How does Solomon's agoraphobia affect his family dynamics, as implied in the book?
- His family is completely supportive and never pressures him to change
- It creates tension, but they adapt to his needs while hoping for improvement
- They have given up on him and mostly ignore his condition
- They force him to attend therapy against his will regularly
Show answer
B. It creates tension, but they adapt to his needs while hoping for improvement Solomon's family is portrayed as caring and accommodating, but his agoraphobia strains their relationships, with underlying hopes for his recovery, reflecting the complex realities of mental health in family settings.
Question 9
In what way does Clark's character serve as a foil to both Lisa and Solomon?
- He is purely comic relief with no deep involvement in the central conflict
- His easygoing nature contrasts with Lisa's ambition and Solomon's anxiety, highlighting their growth
- He secretly shares Solomon's agoraphobia but hides it from Lisa
- He is more academically driven than Lisa, pushing her to succeed
Show answer
B. His easygoing nature contrasts with Lisa's ambition and Solomon's anxiety, highlighting their growth Clark's charm and relaxed attitude provide a balance to Lisa's intense ambition and Solomon's fears, helping both characters reflect on their behaviors and fostering genuine connections, which drives the narrative's emotional depth.
Question 10
What is a key turning point where Solomon's walls 'start to collapse,' as mentioned in the book description?
- When he finally leaves his house for the first time in years
- When he confronts Lisa about her true motives for befriending him
- When Clark breaks up with Lisa over the situation
- When he decides to enroll in online school to finish his education
Show answer
B. When he confronts Lisa about her true motives for befriending him A pivotal moment involves Solomon learning about Lisa's initial plan to use him for her essay, which forces all characters to confront their insecurities and rebuild their friendships on more honest grounds, symbolizing the collapse of emotional barriers.
Highly Illogical Behavior FAQ
What is 'Highly Illogical Behavior' about?
The novel follows sixteen-year-old Solomon Reed, who has severe agoraphobia and hasn't left his house in three years. Ambitious high school student Lisa Praytor decides to 'fix' him as a project to boost her psychology college application, bringing along her boyfriend Clark. As the three form an unexpected friendship, their relationships become increasingly complicated, forcing them to confront their own vulnerabilities and the ethics of Lisa's initial motivations.
Why should I read 'Highly Illogical Behavior'?
This book offers a nuanced exploration of mental health, friendship, and authenticity through compelling characters. It balances humor with emotional depth, particularly in Solomon's witty observations about his condition and the evolving dynamics between the three main characters. The story challenges simplistic notions of 'fixing' people while delivering genuine moments of connection and growth.
What is the background/setting of 'Highly Illogical Behavior'?
The story is set in contemporary suburban California, primarily within Solomon's home where he spends all his time due to his agoraphobia. Key locations include his backyard pool (where much of the bonding occurs), Lisa's school environment where she navigates academic pressures, and Clark's workplace at a movie theater that becomes significant later in the plot.
What are the most memorable quotes from the book?
Solomon's observation 'The world is a highly illogical place, so why should I be logical?' captures the novel's central theme. Another significant quote is Lisa's realization: 'You don't fix people. You just love them, and sometimes that's enough.' Clark's line 'We're all just trying to keep our heads above water' reflects the characters' shared struggles with authenticity.
What writing style does John Corey Whaley use?
Whaley employs alternating first-person perspectives between Solomon and Lisa, allowing readers intimate access to their contrasting viewpoints. The prose is conversational yet insightful, blending Solomon's dark humor about his agoraphobia with Lisa's more analytical tone. The dialogue feels authentic to teenage voices while exploring complex psychological themes.
What minor details add significant meaning to the story?
Solomon's detailed knowledge of constellations (learned from his bedroom window) symbolizes his limited but deep perspective on the world. Lisa's meticulously organized college application materials contrast with her increasingly messy emotional life. Clark's job at the movie theater represents his role as an observer who helps others see themselves more clearly.
What are some subtle foreshadowing moments?
Early mentions of Solomon's panic attack at school three years earlier gradually reveal it was triggered by witnessing a classmate's seizure, not just general anxiety. Lisa's initial description of her project as 'scientific' foreshadows her eventual ethical crisis. Clark's casual comment about 'everyone wearing masks' hints at the authenticity themes that dominate the climax.
What unexpected character connections exist?
Solomon's mother Janice develops a maternal bond with Lisa that complicates Lisa's original manipulative intentions. Clark discovers he shares Solomon's love of classic Star Trek, creating a friendship independent of Lisa that becomes central to the plot. Lisa's own therapist reveals connections to Solomon's family that add layers to the therapeutic ethics explored.
What are Solomon's unspoken motivations throughout the story?
Beneath his acceptance of agoraphobia, Solomon secretly fears that leaving home would mean confronting his father's abandonment and his mother's overprotectiveness. He also craves genuine connection but distrusts people's intentions, which explains his initial resistance and eventual deep investment in Lisa and Clark's friendship.
What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?
Lisa demonstrates cognitive dissonance between her intellectual understanding of psychology and her emotional manipulation of Solomon. Clark presents as confident but hides insecurity about being 'the dumb boyfriend' and fears emotional intimacy. Solomon's agoraphobia manifests not just as fear of open spaces but as a control mechanism against unpredictable human relationships.
What are the major emotional turning points?
The pool scene where Solomon first opens up about his panic attack marks a shift from project to genuine friendship. Lisa's confession about her manipulative intentions creates a rupture that forces all three characters to reevaluate their relationships. The climax at the movie theater, where Solomon voluntarily leaves home to support Clark, represents transformative growth for all characters.
How do the relationship dynamics evolve between the three main characters?
What begins as Lisa's clinical project becomes a genuine triangular friendship where each person fills different needs: Lisa provides intellectual stimulation, Clark offers non-judgmental acceptance, and Solomon gives unexpected wisdom. The dynamics shift dramatically when Solomon and Clark's bond deepens independently, forcing Lisa to confront her jealousy and ethical failings.
Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?
The novel doesn't specify whether Solomon will fully overcome his agoraphobia or what his long-term future holds. Lisa's ultimate college acceptance remains unresolved, emphasizing that her growth matters more than the outcome. The future of Solomon and Clark's friendship post-Lisa's confession is left realistically uncertain, reflecting the messiness of real relationships.
What makes Lisa's initial decision to 'fix' Solomon controversial?
Lisa objectifies Solomon as a college application project without informed consent, raising serious ethical questions about using someone's mental health for personal gain. Her actions walk a fine line between helpful intervention and exploitation, particularly since she withholds her true motivations while gaining Solomon's trust and intimate personal details.
How is the ending of 'Highly Illogical Behavior' interpreted?
The ending shows Solomon taking his first voluntary steps outside to support Clark at the movie theater, representing not a 'cure' but a choice motivated by friendship rather than fear. Lisa's confession and apology demonstrate her moral growth, while Clark's vulnerability with both friends completes his arc from peripheral boyfriend to emotionally central figure. The conclusion emphasizes that healing is nonlinear and relationships require ongoing work.
What does the title 'Highly Illogical Behavior' refer to beyond Solomon's agoraphobia?
The title critiques society's expectation of 'logical' behavior while celebrating the characters' seemingly irrational choices: Solomon's retreat from the world, Lisa's unethical project, and Clark's loyalty to both. It suggests that what appears illogical—like loving imperfect people or prioritizing connection over achievement—may actually be profoundly human and necessary.
About the author
John Corey Whaley is an American author known for his young adult fiction. His notable works include "Where Things Come Back," which explores themes of loss and discovery, and "Highly Illogical Behavior," a story about mental health and friendship. Whaley's writing often addresses complex emotional issues faced by teenagers.
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