Palmer LaRue strepio je od dana kada će napuniti 10 godina. U njegovom gradu desetogodišnjaci dobivaju posao "cijeditelja" na godišnjem gradskom obiteljskom festivalu, Danu golubova, na kojem se nalazi 5000 golubova pušten iz sanduka i oboren u natjecanju za nagradu strijelca. Priča prati Palmerovo putovanje od života vođenog strahom i čežnjom da bude prihvaćen do života u kojem stječe samopouzdanje da se zauzme za ono u što vjeruje.
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Storyboard Tekst
THEME: Peer Pressure
SYMBOL: Nipper
THEME: True Friendship
Peer pressure is a major theme. Palmer desperately wants to be friends with the gang in his neighborhood led by the bully Beans. He discards his friendship with Dorothy Gruzik and joins in their teasing and "tree stumping" of her to gain their approval. He goes against his beliefs and values and also hides Nipper, fearing what they will think.
A beloved pet, Nipper solidifies Palmer’s feelings that Pigeon Day is wrong and unjust. Palmer discovers pigeons are fascinating and beautiful creatures. Hecan't understand why his town shoots 5,000 every year. Nipper also symbolizes Palmer's self-discovery and self-empowerment. His life has been dominated by fear and peer pressure. After adopting Nipper, he begins to stand up for what he believes.
Friendship is a major theme, but not just the kind based on the gang's bullying and fear. Palmer's has a genuine friendship with Dorothy. He treats her horribly when initiated. However, after Nipper appears, Dorothy is the only one who Palmer can confide in. She accepts and supports him. Their friendship helps Palmer grow more confident and willing to stand up for what is right.