Theme Theme is the lesson or message that the author wants you to learn from the story. To understand the theme of the story, ask yourself… *What did the characters learn? *How did the characters grow or change? *Why did the characters act this way? Common Themes Characters who respect and accept others’ differences Brave characters who have the strength to overcome a fear or accept a risk Characters who never give up even during difficult times Characters who work together to solve a problem or reach a goal Characters who want to help others who are suffering feel better Friendly characters who are kind and generous to others Characters who trust each other and never turn their backs on their friends Characters who find that it is always best to tell the truth

ANSWERS

Common Themes Acceptance Courage

Characters who respect and accept others’ differences Brave characters who have the strength to overcome a fear or accept a risk

Perseverance

Characters who never give up even during difficult times

Cooperation

Characters who work together to solve a problem or reach a goal

Compassion

Characters who want to help others who are suffering feel better

Kindness

Friendly characters who are kind and generous to others

Loyalty

Characters who trust each other and never turn their backs on their friends

Honesty

Characters who find that it is always best to tell the truth