The document discusses how to identify the theme of a story. It states that the theme is not a summary or plot, but rather the lesson learned or what is revealed about life. To find the theme, one should consider if the main character changed and what they learned, the main conflict and how it was resolved, and if the title has significant meaning. Common themes are also listed such as courage, freedom, love, and good vs. evil. Examples of stories with identifiable themes are provided.

2.  Message
Lesson
The theme is NOT a summary or the plot!!

3. THEME
{lesson learned by you}
 DIRECTLY STATED  INDIRECTLY
 Obviously stated or STATED
given to the reader in  Must figure out theme
the novel by analyzing what the
novel reveals about life
or the people

4. Themes
• Not all stories have themes. Sometimes the author’s
purpose is just to get an emotional response from a
reader.

5. How Do You Find
Theme in a Story?
• To find the theme of a story ask yourselves some
questions :
• Has the main character of the story changed?
If so, what have they learned?
• What was the main conflict or problem in the
book? How was it resolved?
• Does the title have significant meaning?

6. COMMON THEMES
Courage Freedom Love
Friendship
Good Man vs.
Determination Hope
vs. Evil Nature
Death
Struggles Perseverance Prejudice
Acceptance Loyalty Suffering Responsibility

7. Seedfolks
Bridge to Terabithia, Crispin, Red
Fern
Theme