I could tell this was a well written story because like jwilliams, I became angry as I read what Joe was required to do in order to keep the receptionist job.

Joe could not say no to either Mrs. Bensen or his mom because he wasn't raised to exert himself if he didn't like the wishes of others. And how uncaring would a person appear, especially at work, if they didn't want to help in raising funds for any children's charity? Plus, since Mrs. Bensen already expressed her personal opinion as to Joe's future as a hotel receptionist, she may not have taken it kindly had he refused to dress for the dare.

Preteens should be made to try different activities in order to give them exposure, and maybe find their interests. But once teen years are reached, especially the upper teen years, encouragements should be given in the form of suggestions which allow the teen to make their own choices. Even if the choices lead to non-life threatening life learning lessons.

Like the others I am certain that I have read this before then it disappeared - please keep on with it it's an excellent story and very well written which it must be as for some reason it has upset a few readers.

Never mind the slightly negative comments sometimes you never know what you want until you see it.

Hugs
Christina

Hey Lucy, like some others I found Joe's treatment irksome but please don't take it as criticism - it's just the way I was feeling for the character, and my empathy for him is the result of the writing or I wouldn't have felt it. I do the same when seeing someone in a film or television program heading or being pushed into something wrong or silly and they can't see it or don't show enough spine to resist.
Of course the ogress Benson is harassing the lad most unreasonably, and Mum is rolling over all of his objections, though the latter don't seem too determined now, do they? Comes over to me as more teen whining than serious refusals. Anyway, lets hope "Joanne" gets some fun out of the plot.