What are the motifs in The Corn Grows Ripe by Dorothy Rhoads?

One of the major ideas of this book is borrow from nature. The philosophy of the Mayans is to borrow from nature. They should not possess or destroy nature. They should treat it with respect. Tigre does so when he prepares and plants the cornfield. He cuts through the bush. When he burns the cornfield, he puts nutrients back into the soil by burning it. Then when he plants the cornfield, he uses a simple stick to make holes. He throws seeds in each hole. He does not use primitive machinery or anything harsh to till the soil or plant. He also plants squash and beans, adding to the variety of vegetables. He utilizes the land in the healthiest way possible.