There are both perks and problems associated with being an only child. In the "plus" category, you have undivided attention, independence, and a lack of hand-me-downs, whereas in the "minus" category, there's loneliness, no need for a bunk bed, and no sibling partner in crime to share blame with.

Being an only child myself, I have a special place in my heart for the sibling-less kids of GoComics:

For example, having dealt with the only-child-to-college send-off, I feel for Gene, knowing full well that his parents will be calling him every day "... and that he won't mind in the slightest, because he'll secretly miss them just as much.

Arlo and Janis by Jimmy Johnson

I can appreciate Pasqual's ability to combat the only-child loneliness and find friends anywhere.

Rose is Rose by Don Wimmer and Pat Brady

Like Heart, I frequently worked only-childhood to my advantage. If I had a dime for every time I've played the "you're going to do this to your only child" card "... Classic!

Heart of the City by Mark Tatulli

Calvin knows exactly what I'm talking about:

Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson

Another thing I was guilty of: explaining to my friends with siblings that the reason my parents never had any other children was because they got it right the first time (right, Mom and Dad?). 

Real Life Adventures by Gary Wise and Lance Aldrich

I may not have any siblings to share blame with, but at least I can relate to the many ornery only children of GoComics!

- Amanda