What is the theme in Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson?

Loyalty and patriotism is a theme in this story. Hattie Big Sky deals with an issue that comes up again and again when war is being fought, whether it be on the continent or not. The war in this case is being fought against the Kaiser in the early 1900s, and young men from across America are encouraged to enlist, or drafted into service. Those who remain behind fight another battle on the home front. This is a battle of trust and loyalty. Americans who were trusted neighbors and friends are suddenly suspicious and mistrustful of each othe