Essay Questions

What is the main theme in ‘Almost Perfect Background’ by Brian Katcher?

The main theme in the book is the difficulties transgender people go through in society. Some people who are transgender, like Sage, are discriminated against and isolated. For instance, when students realize that Sage is transgender, they insult her and isolate her. For instance, Laura does not want Logan to date a transgender person. In response, Logan calls Sage spiteful names without caring about her emotional feelings.

What is the significance of the character Sage?

Sage is a significant character in the book because the author uses her to raise awareness about transgender people. According to the author, there is a need for society to acknowledge that transgender people are part of society and they deserve to be treated well. The mistreatment of Sage at school reflects what happens in society as a whole towards transgender people. Therefore, the author concludes that people should be sensitive and care about the feelings of transgender people.

Is Laura justified to interfere in the relationship between her brother Logan and Sage?

Laura is Logan's sister, and when she realizes that he is dating a transgender person, she gets irritated and asks him to dump her immediately. Logan does not think twice because he breaks up with Logan. However, Laura is not justified in interfering with her brother's love affair because Sage deserves love like other human beings.