Social change is also a common theme. These books often show the need for society to evolve and become more inclusive. Through the stories of discrimination, they inspire readers to work towards a more equal world.
Another theme is the exploration of identity. Characters often struggle to define themselves in the face of discrimination. In 'The Color Purple', Celie has to re - discover who she is after years of being oppressed. This theme helps readers understand the psychological impact of discrimination.
The book 'The Price of Salt' is also notable. It was one of the first lesbian - themed novels to have a somewhat happy ending. However, it still shows the discrimination that the characters had to endure throughout the story, which was quite significant considering the time it was written.
One important theme is the destruction of self. In these books, characters often lose their identity, values, and goals as they become consumed by drugs. For example, in 'Crank', the main character changes from an innocent girl to someone who is desperate and lost.
Identity is a major theme. These books often explore how a transgender child discovers and defines their true self, despite the expectations of society. For example, in 'George', the main character struggles to be recognized as a girl.
Malcolm X's autobiography can also be considered in this category. It shows the discrimination he faced as an African - American and his journey to fight against it, as well as his transformation into a powerful advocate for black rights.
One important theme is the psychological impact on the victim. In many cyberbullying fiction books, the characters who are bullied often experience depression, anxiety, and a loss of self - esteem. For example, in 'Thirteen Reasons Why', Hannah's mental state deteriorates due to the bullying she endures. Another theme is the power dynamics. Usually, the bullies feel a sense of power by attacking others online, and this is explored in books like 'Odd One Out' where the characters struggle with who has power in social situations and how that power can be misused.
Resilience is a major theme. Preteen books about slavery often depict slaves who, despite the most horrible conditions, find ways to survive and even resist. Also, the theme of injustice is prevalent. The unfairness of the system of slavery, where people are treated as property, is clearly shown in books such as 'Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass'. And there is also the theme of hope, as characters keep hoping for a better future, free from slavery.
One such book is 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe'. It subtly touches on the discrimination faced by LGBT characters in a coming - of - age context. The main characters' relationship develops against the backdrop of a society that may not fully accept them at first, showing their struggles.
Healing is also an important theme. After experiencing domestic violence, the characters need to heal. Some books show this process through self - reflection, the support of friends or family, or finding a new purpose in life. In 'Black Beauty', after all the mistreatment, the horse finally finds a place where it can be treated with kindness and start to heal from its past traumas.
Trauma is another key theme. For example, in 'Beloved', the characters carry the deep - seated trauma of slavery. It shows how slavery not only affected the physical well - being of black people but also their mental and emotional states, and how this trauma could be passed down through generations.
One important theme is the struggle for freedom. In books like 'The Underground Railroad', the characters are constantly fighting against the chains of slavery and striving for a life of liberty. Another theme is resilience. Slaves in these fictional stories often face great hardships but still manage to keep their spirits alive, as seen in 'Amos Fortune, Free Man'.