What is the theme of Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick?

A major theme of Rodman Phillbrick's Freak the Mighty is the ability of love and friendship to encourage personal growth. At the beginning of the book, Max is angry, withdrawn, and stubborn in the belief that no one in his life cares for him. Over the course of the novel he forms a strong friendship with Kevin, and begins to learn that he is smarter than he gives himself credit for. His interactions with Kevin show him that he is loved, and make him reconsider his belief that his grandparents don't care about him. After Kevin's death at the end of the book, Max has transformed enough to write their story, despite believing at the beginning of the book that he was stupid. The friendship that develops between Max and Kevin throughout the book gives Max higher self-esteem and a more positive worldview.