One major theme in the novel is bullying, specifically Charles treatment and bullying of other students. Throughout the novel, we see Charles bully and coerce other students into doing what he wants, and much of his behavior comes from usually getting everything he want. His family is wealthy, and Charles wants things his way. It is also interesting to note that the adults in the novel do not believe the other students reports about Charles' bullying.... that they need concrete proof before addressing the issue, rather than employing any type of intervention based upon the inforation given to them by other students.