The theme is the main message of a story. Usually, a theme says something important about life or the world. An example of a theme is “Nature is more powerful than people.”

Authors usually don’t tell you the theme. You have to figure it out from clues in the story.

When you read a story, pay attention to what the characters do, think, feel, and say. Look at the pictures, too. Use these clues to identify the theme.

Practice Together

Look for Clues Reread “Frankenstein.” Make a Character Chart to track clues about what Dr. Frankenstein does, thinks, feels, and says. Then make a similar chart for the creature.

Put the Clues Together Discuss the clues on your charts. What ideas about life or the world do you get from these clues? State what you think the author is trying to tell you.

Most stories have more than one theme, so you and your classmates may not agree on the author’s message. Also, readers interpret themes in different ways. Each reader has a personal idea about the theme.

Try It!

State a Theme Reread a story you read earlier in this book, such as “The Secret Water” or “Earthquake.” As you read, record clues about the characters. Then write a sentence that states the theme.

Share Your Ideas With a partner, discuss your interpretation of the theme. Do you and your partner have the same idea about the theme? Did you interpret it in a similar way?