Describe the theme Judgment vs. Acceptance from the novel and include a quote that supports the presence of the theme.

One prominent theme in Loser is the juxtaposition of judgment and acceptance. Because of the age of the children in school and because of the stress of their school environment, the kids are constantly competing with one another. This creates an environment of judgment, which even many of the teachers uphold, particularly Mrs. Biswell. By contrast, Zinkoff's parents and teachers such as Mr. Yalowitz cultivate an ethos of encouragement, inclusivity, and acceptance. Zinkoff's parents' and Mr. Yalowitz's approval carries a message of self-love that penetrates Zinkoff's difference and reminds him that he has unique qualities that ought to be celebrated not punished. Ultimately, the judgment of his peers is outweighed by the approval he receives from trustworthy authorities in his life.