“It wasn’t much, really, the whole Jessica Feeney thing.”

The first line of the novel reveals Tom’s self-effacing personality. His comment is an understatement: Tom’s experience with Jessica is profound and changes his life perspective.

“My mother says it’s because I don’t ‘get out there.’”

Tom is largely unnoticed by his classmates and adults. Tom chooses his isolation, preferring his imaginary adventures to social engagement. In his adventures, Tom is large and in charge, while his real-life interactions are awkward, and he has trouble expressing himself.

“I was just a sweaty, fat kid with baggy pants, and she was Courtney Zisky.”

Tom has an uncomplimentary self-image which reflects his lack of confidence. He believes that his appearance automatically keeps him from being noticed by, and becoming friends with, popular Courtney. Tom, like Jessica, although on a much different scale, feels he is also socially judged by his appearance.