I am certain that I bonded immensely with this book because I, too, was a part of the cafeteria fringe in high school (i.e. the kids who are not part of a popular clique). What I enjoyed most about this book was the candid way in which the students were portrayed. There was no sugarcoating their feelings or their statements. This is what some kids are going through on a daily basis in school. The book describes something called "quirk theory". Quirk theory essentially proposes that qualities causing those on the fringe of school social groups to be excluded are the very same qualities that are appreciated later in adulthood. Robbins goes even further and describes how, if they stay true to themselves, these kids tend to excel later in life.
The book is well balanced with anecdotal stories and research that supports her theory. It is an enjoyable, but sometimes sad, read. Your heart aches for some of the teens in the book. You want to just tell them through the pages that it will be better when they get out of high school.... keep pressing on! There is hope offered in the book via the tips, recommendations and challenges given to the students and one teacher. I would go so far as to say I think this should be required reading in school. It has very strong talking points that could potentially change the way children, parents and educators think. Anything that can challenge a mind to expand and embrace gets high marks in my grade book.
