Content Warning: This section contains discussions of ableism.

“The labeling and testing systems that would eventually define my life had been set firmly in place, and the public was well informed that they were going to have to accommodate those of us with RISK factors so extreme that they caused a danger not only to ourselves, but to those around us.”

The government in Emerson’s world conceptualizes and manages people’s RISK factors by labeling them on a scale from one to five. While this system is intended to keep everyone safe and to determine the accommodations that people with RISK factors need, Martin’s narrative suggests it’s also pathologizing and alienating for kids like Emerson, whose freedom is curtailed by the RISK evaluation system.

“I was next. How was I supposed to follow someone like Hank? I wasn’t funny. I was lame. Following him was just going to accentuate the lameness.”

At the beginning of his character arc, Emerson is shy and lacks self-confidence. Befriending Hank helps him recognize that it is okay to look silly sometimes. Hank helps Emerson build his confidence and step outside his comfort zone, catalyzing Emerson’s character growth and emphasizing The Power of Friendship.

“To my surprise I spotted a convenient metal ring in the floor. Eli hadn’t been lying when he told my mom that they’d had kids like me here before. I looped the bungee through and double-checked my knots.”

Mr. Blue designs Camp Outlier to accommodate campers’ RISK factors and allow them a space where they feel free to be themselves without judgment. Martin characterizes these accommodations as analogous to the real accommodations that people with disabilities require, such as accessible showers with handrails and seats. Disability accommodations are an important way to allow people of differing abilities to participate fully in society.