The time described in Houston is supposedly the 100-page essay written by Steve as his extra English class necessary for graduation.

The novel's title originates from a student group in the novel, the Grace Order of Dadaists also known by its abbreviated name GOD.

Author Thomas later created the television series Veronica Mars and called a season 2 episode "Rat Saw God" after the book.

Steve's sophomore-year girlfriend Wanda Varner was later used as the name of a character on the series in the episode "Return of the Kane".

In addition, a character named Alan York is referenced in the episode "Astroburger" of the TV series iZombie, also created by Thomas.