At its core, the novel celebrates the profound impact of true friendship. Eric and Sarah's bond, forged in their shared experiences of being bullied and ostracized, becomes a lifeline for both of them. Eric's unwavering loyalty to Sarah, even when she pushes him away, showcases the lengths we go to for those we care about most.

The novel delves into the complexities of trauma and its lasting effects. Sarah's silence is a manifestation of a deeply traumatic experience from her past, gradually revealed as the story unfolds. Crutcher handles this sensitive subject matter with care, realistically depicting the struggles of a young woman grappling with pain and seeking to find her voice.

Both Sarah and Eric, in their own ways, are on journeys to find their voices. For Sarah, it's about overcoming the trauma that has silenced her and finding the strength to speak her truth. Eric, on the other hand, seeks to find his voice as he grapples with his identity and his place in the world.