Themes
Coming of Age- Robert is presented with the task that gradually bring the transition into him becoming a man. An example is when he allowed his father butcher his bestfriend, which shows that Robert has accepted that some things in life are not fair and that being a man is all about doing what has to be done.
Acceptance- The book is all about the way that some of the characters react to the terrible events they had to experience. An example is how one of the things that Haven tries to teach Robert is that sometimes you can't do anything about what happens and just have to move on. Also, when Haven dies the family learns to carry his life and make it seem like any other day.
Family- Family was a big one in the book. It shows that no matter what happens they (family) will always be there. And its a bond that can;'t be broken by anything. An example is when Haven died the family is still together no matter what has happened to Haven and the will become stronger at the end of everything.