A Chance to Be Normal

As twelve-year-old Koywan navigates the school day, he endures a lot of stress. Hes the butt of everyones jokes, has only a few friends, and being chosen last on teams is a weekly event. But having to ride the bus and deal with the jokers and pranksters is the worst. He anticipates the sassy words of his worst enemy, Suzie Johnson. As if enduring his classmates jokes during the school hours isnt bad enough, Suzies sharp words put the bitter icing on what has already been a bad day. He keeps his cool while Suzie throws insult after insult at him until she moves to the next person; few are exempt from her nastiness. Unfortunately for Koywan, his insults last longer, and he seems to be Suzies prime target. Koywan is frustrated by the bus drivers lack of concern. The best part of his day is getting home and spending time with Grandma Lillian who always knows the right things to say. Although her words are old-fashioned and out of date for a twelve-year-old kid, they still mean a lot. But when Koywan needs advice from someone his age, his best friend, John, is there to help him brainstorm. And thats what they do: concoct a plan to help Koywan get Suzie off his back, to fit in at school, and to have a chance to be normal.