Yes, this works. Taking a shot of him from behind, might have had more impact, but it's quite good.

This certainly says lonely to me. I think the composition has helped with that message. The only downfall is the exposure is off, but it looks like hard lighting to get right.

devastating expression

Yes!!! Awesome. He looks definitely "alone" and also very deep in thought. A strange state fpor a young boy like this.

I really like the vieweing angle, and your composition, which has him sort of looking out of the frame.

This is a great interpretation of the theme.

I wish the boy had more space in front of him.

I really like this image, I only wish the small part where the legs are crossed wasn't blown out. I think it fits the theme well.

love the framing of this with the slight feeling of "looming" over. his posture says so much.

This almost perfectly captures that feeling of being left out as a kid - well done. I wonder, though, from a technical side, whether the skin tones are suffering from too much contrast?