School

In the beginning, Vernon struggles with school. In elementary school, he was among the best baseball players in his class. Now that he enters junior high, he feels like a small fish in a big pond. Vernon is already one year behind in school, so his poor grades worry him greatly. By the end of the book, Vernon has both increased his grades and learned that there are many different kinds of intelligence.

Oriole Stadium

Vernon lives near Oriole Stadium in Baltimore. He dreams of playing there in the major league, until he enters junior high and realizes that his baseball skills lag behind his peers.

Tenley Heights

Vernon's neighborhood seems solidly working class, though it borders a neighborhood that is clearly poorer.

Books

Miss Annie tries to explain to Vernon that books can be a friend. Vernon tells Miss Annie that she is a "bookaholic."

Seeds