Children often challenge each other to do things they wouldn’t normally do. They accept such challenges to prove they’re brave and to assimilate into a group. It’s part of growing up and testing oneself in preparation for meeting the demands of life. But it’s also a form of competition, and sometimes it can get out of hand. Though Alan’s dare forces Billy to confront and overcome many obstacles, it also creates challenges for Alan, Tom, and Joe as the bet expands beyond their control.

Eating worms and doing other gross things is something kids especially like to goad each other into doing, and they enjoy watching others squirm as they try to meet the icky rules of such a contest. This challenge serves as the basis of the narrative and sends the protagonist, Billy, on a journey of self-discovery. The challenge itself is purely silly, but the undercurrents force Billy and the other characters to face weightier issue, such as Billy’s concerns about his eating habits and Alan’s relationship with his father. Billy in particular evolves through these challenges, developing a sense of independence, self-confidence, and bravery.

While Billy overcomes his challenges about eating worms and Alan begins to go crazy over the possibility of losing—the challenge he’s unwilling to face—Tom and Joe confront their own tests.