Different is better than okay.
One cannot avoid seeing the absurdity of being different from others. Charley thinks that he is unlucky because he thinks that he is underprivileged until he meets Emma. Emma is disabled, and she uses a powered wheelchair to move around. Charley rudely asks his mother why Emma is more different from him. Consequently, Charley had earlier thought he was unfortunate, but he realizes that he is much better once he meets Emma. However, Charley is reminded by his mother that being different is okay, and people must respect each other in their unique ways.
The paradox of friendship
The first time Charley sees Emma in her Wheelchair in the park, he feels angry at her because of her situation. However, Charley later realizes that Emma is not regretting her situation. She appreciates her condition because she is determined to achieve her goals no matter the obstacles. The paradox is that Charley and Emma are the best of friends despite the initial disgusting encounter.
The irony of disability
Emma is a disabled kid with no hands, and she uses a wheelchair to move around. Charley thinks that this girl is unfortunate and unlucky because she can do nothing alone. However, Emma has own rules, and she must be addressed as she prefers. Charley learns from Emma that disability is not inability, which is the primary paradox. The author uses this paradox to encourage children to pursue their dreams despite their disabilities because nothing is impossible.
