Attention Deficit Disorder

One of the primary themes throughout the novel is the disease of hyperactive disorder and its effect on the lives of children with the illness and those around them. Joey Pigza is essentially a good child with a good heart. Having been abused and abandoned as a child, he is still bright and loving. However, it is clear from the beginning that Joey has a hard time concentrating and that he is extremely hyper. Joey often is unable to sit still, speaks when he should not, and acts out in ways he almost cannot help. He swallows his house key, secretly eats a pie, twists his ankle, and eventually harms another student as a result of his hyper nature. Joey wants to behave well but his medication simply does not control his actions. In addition, after a lifetime of abuse and inadequate support, joey is unable...