Acceptance is another theme in the book. Stephen Gordon wants nothing more from the people around her than acceptance. Stephen has known since she was a small child that she is not like most girls. Stephen dresses differently, feels differently, and loves differently. These differences create a social barrier that Stephen cannot overcome. Neighbors gossip about Stephen, even those who have known her since she was a small child. Strangers point and whisper. Even people in her own home, invited guests talk about Stephen behind her back as though she were a clown inviting gossip.