The ten stories in this anthology share similar literary techniques to attain a thematic unity. Thomas's use of first-person narration makes the students' experiences more intimate to readers who learn about the fictional teenagers through their revelations based on their individual points of view. Perception is an important literary element in that each character interprets his or her community service according to his or her context and interests. If the characters switched assignments, each would offer different opinions than the ones that Thomas presented about the people they are helping, their adult advisors, and the tasks. The anthology as a whole presents multiple viewpoints which create a comprehensive discussion concerning the role of community service in education. Thomas accurately captures the language teenagers speak and the philosophies they believe while enlightening readers without being didactic.

Thomas presents each story as if it were a conversation the...