THE CHALLENGES OF GROWING
UP
Richard has problems fitting in
with society. He likes to be alone
and daydream rather than play
games.
Richard had little chances of
communicating with Pa who is
often silent and reserved.
Besides that, the talented and
perceptive Richard has doubts
about his hidden poetic talent. It
makes him and oddball who feels
alone even when Im around other
LOVE, UNDERSTANDING AND
FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS
Though often taken for granted by Pa and
Gus, Angie proves to be the heart of the
family loving, compassionate and non-
judgemental. Richard is able to find some
comfort and safety with Angie in the
kitchen whenever he feels left out by Pa
and Gus (p.16).
After Richards poetic tribute to Kilmer is
published in the local paper. Pa relates A
world is gone! to when Roland was killed
in the Cuban War.
The Schermers family, in contrast, is a
more balanced and happy one. There is
joy, laughter, communication, music,
singing, books, and literature in their
home. Richard finds their home and
PATRIOTISM
As the country goes to war, the
spirit of patriotism runs high and
the people demonstrate their
loyalty to the country in many
ways.
Many young men volunteer to
serve the country including Mr.
Kilmer, Otto and Gus.
Those who do not go to war show
their support by rationing their
meals, buying Liberty Bonds and
organizing programmes to help
the war effort.
PREJUDICE AND
DISCRIMINATION
After America goes to war against
the Germans, a majority of the
community in Turtle Lake are
unable to accept the Schermers
living in the neighbourhood.
Their tavern is vandalized by the
locals and Hannah is bullied and
ridiculed in school.
SACRIFICE
Some of the characters make
sacrifices in their own way throughout
the course of the story.
Angie sacrifices her education I order
to take care of her family after her
mothers death. She as much higher
responsibilities
Hannah sacrifices her role as Lady
Liberty in order to keep the peace in
her community.
Roland Knight and Kilmer made the
ultimate sacrifice. They both lose
their lives in the war while serving
their country.
THE EFFECTS OF WAR
The story is set during World War
1 and the effects of war are
portrayed significantly in the
novel.
Loss if lives many people die
during the war and many children
grow up without parents. Kilmer
too loses his life in battle.
War creates hatred and prejudice
which divides people, nations and
countries at large.