"The whole is greater than the sum of its parts" means that putting separate parts together to make a whole creates something greater. This is exactly what Max and Kevin discover they can do together--create a greater whole. Max and Kevin are weak when each is on his own. For example, Max is weak in his learning, thinking and reasoning skills where Kevin is very strong. Kevin is weak because of his physical disabilities where Max is big and strong. As separate parts, or entities, each boy struggles with his own weakness; but, together they can create a greater whole. The three ways that Max and Kevin become greater than they are on their own is physically, academically, and socially.
Physically, Max carries Kevin around on his shoulders. This enables Kevin to experience life as if he could walk normally. He is also able to participate in normal activities, such as watching fireworks and seeing over the tops of people's heads during the Fourth of July activities in chapter 7. Next, Kevin helps Max with academics by teaching him how to develop better reading and writing skills. This enables Max to feel what it is like to be strong at school and more confident in his own mind. Finally, they both keep each other company as they develop a strong friendship. Before they met, both boys were social misfits and struggled to be accepted by their peers. This caused both of them to feel lonely and unaccepted. Together, they create a strong friendship as well as a unified team that is eventually accepted by their classmates and teachers.
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