As much as I loved Rafe's character here, I'm not entirely convinced with the book's premise. There's just something about it that feels awfully unrealistic. First, I don't exactly buy Rafe's hippie "ideal" parents. They're "fun" and "funny" but they're too made up. The whole boy school setting reminded me of Hungry Young Poets or maybe I'm just imagining Robbin Williams as Mr. Scarborough. 
 There's also something peculiar or perhaps a bit illogical (which was well explained by Rage at the latter part of the novel) on Rafe's reasoning that was prolonged like WAY TOO LONG! 
 I also loved Ben's character. I so loved the bromance thing between him and Bryce and him with Rafe. I've to admit that I was a bit put out with the ending though I know that it was actually the right and more realistic conclusion. I also wouldn't mind reading a follow up novel regarding Ben and Rafe's life after high school. Mr. Konigsberg should really ponder upon this suggestion. 
 All things considered, I thought the author was able to deliver a hopeful message of acceptance here and that old mantra about being yourself resounding loud and clear. 
 Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars *rounded off*